Final answer:
A Baroque oratorio is a large-scale, multi-movement sacred work for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra, similar to opera but without acting, costumes, or sets. It is characteristic of the Baroque era's dramatic artistic expression. Therefore the correct answer is C. a multi-movement sacred work similar to opera
Step-by-step explanation:
A Baroque oratorio is a large-scale musical composition for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra. It is similar to an opera in structure but is primarily religious in nature, often based on biblical stories. Unlike opera, the oratorio does not include costumes, sets, or acting. The Baroque era, which occurred from around 1600 to the mid-18th century, was characterized by dramatic expression in art, music, and architecture, intended to evoke emotional responses and to convey grand narratives. Notable composers of oratorios from this period include George Frideric Handel, whose work 'Messiah' remains highly popular.