Question

Regarding Hrothgar and Hrothulf, the author writes, "High under Herot's great roof, their speech courteous and warm. King and people were one; none of the Danes was plotting. Then, no treachery hid in their smiles." What does this statement imply, and what literary element is being used?

a) It implies a coming betrayal, and the literary element is foreshadowing.
b) It implies lasting peace, and the literary element is irony.
c) It implies a joyful celebration, and the literary element is symbolism.
d) It implies secrecy, and the literary element is metaphor.

Answer 1

The statement implies a coming betrayal, and the literary element being used is foreshadowing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement implies a coming betrayal, as the author mentions that no treachery hid in the smiles of Hrothgar and Hrothulf. The literary element being used in this statement is foreshadowing. Foreshadowing is when the author provides hints about the plot developments to come before they happen.