Final Answer:
Beowulf isn't the inaugural hero from the British Isles; earlier figures like Cú Chulainn and King Arthur predate his legend. Thus the correct option is b).
Step-by-step explanation:
Beowulf is not the first hero from the British Isles. The character of Beowulf originates from an Old English epic poem, but the concept of heroes in the British Isles predates Beowulf. Celtic mythology, for instance, has a rich history of heroic figures like Cú Chulainn from Irish mythology or King Arthur from Welsh and English folklore, who predate Beowulf in their origins and cultural significance. These heroic figures were revered for their valor and legendary deeds long before the tale of Beowulf emerged.
Furthermore, Beowulf's narrative was likely composed between the 8th and 11th centuries, a period that came after the existence of these earlier legendary heroes. The traditions and oral histories that inspired Beowulf might have been influenced by these preexisting heroic figures, suggesting that Beowulf wasn't the inaugural hero from the British Isles but rather a continuation of a tradition that already celebrated heroic exploits. Therefore, while Beowulf remains a significant character in English literature, he isn't the first hero to emerge from the rich tapestry of the British Isles' mythological heritage. Thus the correct option is b).