Question

Which of the following can be protected by a copyright?

Select one:
A. Familiar symbols
B. Names of people
C. An improvisational speech that has not been recorded
D. A novel

Answer 1

A novel is the item among the choices provided that can be protected by a copyright, as it constitutes an 'original work of authorship' fixed in a tangible form, which copyright law is designed to protect.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which of the listed items can be protected by a copyright. Choosing from the provided options, the one that can be protected is a novel. Copyright law safeguards 'original works of authorship' that are fixed in a tangible medium of expression, such as a book. A novel represents a literary work which can, therefore, be copyrighted, provided it is original and fixed in a tangible form. This means it is not merely an idea but is expressed and recorded in a way that can can be physically or digitally retained and read. Copyright protection typically extends for the life of the author plus 70 years and prohibits others from reproducing, displaying, or performing the work without authorization.