Final answer:
Decorative elements in a text, such as images or graphics, are intended to provide additional clarity, emphasize key points, contribute to character and setting development, or add credibility to the author's claims. They exist to enhance the reader’s understanding and engagement with the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purposes of decorative elements in a text are varied and serve different functions depending on the context. For informational texts, decorative elements like images or graphics should supplement or add clarity to the content. They can help the reader capture the essential information, emphasize critical elements, and enhance understanding. In argumentative texts, these elements can strengthen the author’s claims by providing visual evidence or by emphasizing key points.
Similarly, in literature, decorative elements often contribute to the atmosphere or the development of characters, setting, and mood. These elements are not just ornamental; they can communicate nonessential and essential information that can deepen a reader's engagement and understanding of the text. For example, an image in a historical analysis might reflect upon the subject matter, adding a layer of meaning that complements the author's narrative or argument.
Images should offer meaningful alternatives to the textual content, ensuring that their inclusion serves a purpose and adds value. It could be to define an idea, or make a concept easier to understand, or even to add credibility to the author’s standpoint. Ultimately, decorative elements should contribute to the overall effectiveness of the text, providing critical insight or aiding the reader in thinking about the subject matter more deeply.