Question

Which of the following statements about the Danes is best supported in lines 144-300 of Beowulf?

Question options:

a) The Danes changed from a monarchical society to a democracy after Grendel killed their crown prince.

b) The Danes wrote to the king of Geatland and promised him gold if he would send his best warriors to defeat Grendel. (incorrect)

c) The Danes offered sacrifices to pagan gods, in the hopes that the gods would save them from Grendel.

d) The Danes were unable to fight Grendel because they were an agricultural community that did not train their people to be warriors.

Answer 1

The correct response is Option C: The Danes offered sacrifices to pagan gods, in the hopes that the gods would save them from Grendel.

Step-by-step explanation:

Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that was likely written between 975 and 1025, although the author is unknown. The tale is set in Scandinavia. The poem uses fictional inventions and legendary claims as well as historic elements that probably have some truth. The Danes make offerings at their pagan shrines in the hopes this will bring the wrath of the gods on Grendel the monster, but nothing happens. The Danes are terrorized for years by Grendel until Beowulf comes and performs heroically in helping the Danes but still dies in the end while fighting the dragon. It seems to be a commentary on warrior society not being enough to protect the everyday person from the terrors and unknowns of the world.