Final answer:
The Latin phrase "in medias res" most literally means "in the middle of things," corresponding to Option 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
The literary concept "in medias res" refers to a narrative that begins in the middle of things. Contrary to the chronological structure of Freytag's Pyramid, a story that kicks off in medias res drops the reader straight into the action or a significant moment well beyond the story's beginning, which can lead to a more engaging and dynamic reading experience. As the Latin translation of "in medias res" most literally means "in the middle of things," the correct answer to the student's question is Option 2.