Final answer:
Suspense is the feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty, and the best description is option 1), an eagerness to see how things turn out. It is a literary tool used to keep readers engaged by creating tension and anticipation for the outcome of a story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best explanation of suspense is option 1), an eagerness to see how things turn out. Suspense is a feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen in a story. It is effectively used by authors to keep readers engaged and interested in continuing to read to find out the outcome of a plot or the resolution of a character's dilemma. While the expectation that a character will die or disappointment in how a story ends can be related to suspense, they are not themselves definitions of suspense but rather potential outcomes that a suspenseful situation might lead to. The role of suspense in a narrative is to build up tension and create an atmosphere that encourages the reader to stay invested in the characters and story.
Considering how an author divides a story and ends chapters can also add to the suspense, as it can leave the reader with questions and speculations about what will happen next. Effective use of suspense as a literary element can lead to various emotional responses from the audience, such as anxiety, excitement, or anticipation, depending on how the story unfolds. It's a crucial tool for authors in crafting a compelling narrative.