Read this excerpt from Beowulf, in which Unferth, one of Hrothgar's warriors, addresses Beowulf.
Art thou that Beowulf with Breca did struggle,
On the wide sea-currents at swimming contended,
Where to humor your pride the ocean ye tried,
’Twas mere folly that actuated you both to risk your lives on the ocean.
From vainest vaunting adventured your bodies
In care of the waters?
...
In the water’s possession,
Ye toiled for a seven-night; he at swimming outdid thee,
In strength excelled thee.
...
The pledge that he made thee
Breca outdid you entirely.
The son of Beanstan hath soothly accomplished.
Then I ween thou wilt find thee less fortunate issue,
Much more will Grendel outdo you, if you vie with him in prowess.
Which of these words best describes Unferth's tone?
A. vehement
B. insulting
C. ironic
D. casual
Art thou that Beowulf with Breca did struggle,
On the wide sea-currents at swimming contended,
Where to humor your pride the ocean ye tried,
’Twas mere folly that actuated you both to risk your lives on the ocean.
From vainest vaunting adventured your bodies
In care of the waters?
...
In the water’s possession,
Ye toiled for a seven-night; he at swimming outdid thee,
In strength excelled thee.
...
The pledge that he made thee
Breca outdid you entirely.
The son of Beanstan hath soothly accomplished.
Then I ween thou wilt find thee less fortunate issue,
Much more will Grendel outdo you, if you vie with him in prowess.
Which of these words best describes Unferth's tone?
A. vehement
B. insulting
C. ironic
D. casual
Answers & Comments
Answer:
B. insulting
Explanation:
The answer is B. insulting
Unferth is addressing Beowulf in a disdainful, mocking, and insulting manner. He is taunting Beowulf by reminding him of his previous defeat in a swimming contest with his friend Breca and questioning his abilities to defeat Grendel. He is also showing his skepticism toward Beowulf's strength and bravery. He is not being ironic, casual, or even vehement.
Verified answer
B. Insulting.
In this excerpt, Unferth addresses Beowulf with a tone that is clearly intended to belittle and demean him. He uses words such as "folly," "vainest vaunting," and "less fortunate issue" to suggest that Beowulf's actions are foolish and that he is unlikely to be successful in his upcoming battle with Grendel. Additionally, Unferth implies that Beowulf is weaker and less skilled than Breca, another warrior, and suggests that Beowulf will be outdone by Grendel, further diminishing Beowulf's status and reputation. Overall, Unferth's tone is one of condescension and disrespect, making it clear that he views Beowulf as inferior and unworthy of respect.