What is the purpose of a riddle?

A riddle serves the purpose of challenging the reader or listener to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to decipher its answer or meaning. It often presents a scenario, description, or play on words that requires thoughtful interpretation and clever thinking. The essence of a riddle lies in its ability to engage the audience in a mental exercise, stimulating curiosity and enhancing cognitive abilities. This interactive element is what makes riddles enjoyable and intriguing, as they invite individuals to think outside the box and arrive at an answer that may not be immediately obvious.

The other choices do not align with the primary function of riddles. Factual accounts of historical events aim to inform and educate rather than challenge understanding. Expressing emotions in poetic form is more about artistic expression rather than problem-solving. Finally, a straightforward explanation of a concept focuses on clarity and direct understanding, which is contrary to the mysterious and thought-provoking nature of a riddle.