Final answer:
The musical characteristic of the spiritual that directly influenced jazz is the call and response form, a dynamic interactive element that is also seen in other genres like blues and gospel, contributing to the expressive nature of jazz. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The musical characteristic of the spiritual that directly influenced jazz is its call and response form. This form, along with syncopated rhythms and the use of blue notes, is a testament to the African influences and is a significant element in jazz music. African American spirituals showcased a blend of West African and European American musical traditions, which also included body movements such as hand-clapping and foot-stomping.
Call and response is a structure where one phrase (the call) is answered by a responding phrase. This pattern created a dynamic and interactive musical experience which is fundamental in jazz as well as other African American music genres such as blues and gospel. Spirituals often included messages of hope and resilience, and jazz musicians adapted this powerful sense of expression, helping to communicate complex emotions through their improvisational and performance styles.
Hence, Option c is correct.