Examination Over The Beowulf / Anglo-saxon Exam
Beowulf is an Anglo Saxon epic poem is considered one of the oldest surviving long stories in English language. It takes us into the life of Beowulf a youthful warrior against Grendel who despises humans. Take up the quiz below designed to help you prepare for the examination over the Beowulf poem.
- 1.
Which of the following lines from Beowulf contains an example of kenning?
- A.
“ ‘Higlac is my cousin and my king; the days / Of my youth have been filled with glory.’ ”
- B.
“Their guide reined in his horse, pointing / To that hall, built by Hrothgar for the best / And bravest of his men . . .”
- C.
“The high hall rang, its roof boards swayed, / And Danes shook with terror.”
- D.
“ ‘. . . I have come so far, / Oh shelterer of warriors and your people’s loved friend, / That this one favor you should not refuse me . . . ’ ”
Correct Answer
D. “ ‘. . . I have come so far, / Oh shelterer of warriors and your people’s loved friend, / That this one favor you should not refuse me . . . ’ ”Explanation
The correct answer contains an example of kenning because it uses a compound metaphorical phrase to describe someone or something. In this case, "Oh shelterer of warriors and your people's loved friend" is a kenning that refers to Hrothgar, using figurative language to convey his role and relationship with the people.Rate this question:
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- 2.
From which fact can the reader infer that the character Beowulf is honorable?
- A.
Beowulf refuses to use weapons because Grendel uses none.
- B.
Higlac is Beowulf’s cousin.
- C.
Beowulf is the strongest of the Geats.
- D.
Beowulf vows to trick Grendel into killing Hrothgar.
Correct Answer
A. Beowulf refuses to use weapons because Grendel uses none.Explanation
The fact that Beowulf refuses to use weapons because Grendel uses none suggests that Beowulf values fairness and honor in combat. By choosing to fight Grendel on equal terms, Beowulf shows his integrity and honorable nature. He wants to prove his strength and bravery without any advantage over his opponent, which reflects his honorable character.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What does this line from Beowulf mean? “the monster’s thoughts were as quick as his greed or his claws”
- A.
He is hungry.
- B.
He has sharp claws.
- C.
He is not trustworthy.
- D.
He has intelligence.
Correct Answer
D. He has intelligence.Explanation
This line from Beowulf suggests that the monster possesses intelligence. The comparison between the monster's thoughts and his greed or claws implies that his thoughts are just as quick as his physical attributes. This indicates that the monster is not only physically formidable but also mentally capable, highlighting his intelligence.Rate this question:
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- 4.
In Beowulf when the dying Beowulf gives Wiglaf his gold necklace, the gesture means that
- A.
Beowulf has captured the monster’s treasure.
- B.
Beowulf wants Wiglaf to kill his comrades.
- C.
Beowulf is passing on the rulership of Geatland to Wiglaf.
- D.
Beowulf recognizes Wiglaf’s superior strength in battle.
Correct Answer
C. Beowulf is passing on the rulership of Geatland to Wiglaf.Explanation
The correct answer is that Beowulf is passing on the rulership of Geatland to Wiglaf. This can be inferred from the gesture of giving Wiglaf his gold necklace, which symbolizes the transfer of power and authority. By passing on the necklace, Beowulf is entrusting Wiglaf with the responsibility of leading and governing their land. This act demonstrates Beowulf's recognition of Wiglaf's loyalty, bravery, and capability to rule.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which is the best paraphrase for this passage from Beowulf ? —Then the sword / Melted, blood-soaked, dripping down / Like water, disappearing like ice when the world’s / Eternal Lord loosens invisible / Fetters and unwinds icicles and frost . . .
- A.
God made the bloody sword turn to dripping icicles and frost.
- B.
Beowulf loosened his grip on the bloody sword and it disappeared into the water.
- C.
Beowulf’s bloody sword became liquid the way ice and frost do when God warms and melts them.
- D.
God made the sword melt and freed Beowulf from the magic fetters that bound him.
Correct Answer
C. Beowulf’s bloody sword became liquid the way ice and frost do when God warms and melts them. -
- 6.
Which phrase best paraphrases the underlined words in this quotation from Beowulf? . . . they could hack at Grendel / From every side, trying to open / A path for his evil soul, but their points / Could not hurt him.
- A.
To kill him
- B.
To drive him out of the hall
- C.
To speak to him in a séance
- D.
To help him escape
Correct Answer
A. To kill himExplanation
The underlined words in the quotation describe the actions of the warriors trying to attack Grendel. They are attempting to "hack at Grendel" and "open a path for his evil soul." The phrase "To kill him" best paraphrases these actions, as the warriors are trying to harm Grendel and ultimately cause his death.Rate this question:
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- 7.
When used to describe Beowulf, the phrase “noble protector of all seamen” is an example of
- A.
A caesura.
- B.
A foil.
- C.
A kenning
- D.
An alliteration.
Correct Answer
C. A kenningExplanation
The phrase "noble protector of all seamen" is an example of a kenning. A kenning is a figurative expression that replaces a noun with a descriptive phrase or compound word. In this case, "noble protector of all seamen" is used to describe Beowulf, emphasizing his role as a heroic and honorable guardian of sailors. Kennings were commonly used in Old English poetry, such as Beowulf, to create vivid and evocative descriptions.Rate this question:
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- 8.
. In Beowulf, Grendel’s arm hanging in the banquet hall of the Danes might be described as a kind of _______ for the Geats.
- A.
Allusion
- B.
Caesura
- C.
Trophy
- D.
Punishment
Correct Answer
C. TropHyExplanation
The arm of Grendel hanging in the banquet hall of the Danes can be described as a kind of trophy for the Geats. A trophy is a symbol of victory or achievement, and in this case, it represents the Geats' triumph over Grendel. It serves as a reminder of their success and as a warning to their enemies.Rate this question:
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- 9.
When Beowulf requests that he alone “May purge all evil from this hall,” what does he mean by purge?
- A.
Unearth and torment
- B.
Cleanse and purify
- C.
Submerge and deny
- D.
Bury and forget
Correct Answer
B. Cleanse and purifyExplanation
Beowulf's request to "May purge all evil from this hall" means that he wants to cleanse and purify the hall by removing all evil or wrongdoing from it. He wants to rid the hall of any negative or harmful influences, ensuring that it becomes a place free from any form of evil or corruption.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following passages contains a reference to the pagan religion of the past?
- A.
“A powerful monster, living down / In the darkness, growled in pain, impatient / As day after day the music rang / Loud in that hall. . . .”
- B.
“ . . . sailors / Have brought us stories of Herot, the best / Of all mead-halls, deserted and useless . . .”
- C.
“. . . He was spawned in that slime, / Conceived by a pair of those monsters born / Of Cain, . . .”
- D.
“And sometimes they sacrificed to the old stone gods, / Made heathen vows, hoping for Hell’s / Support, . . .”
Correct Answer
D. “And sometimes they sacrificed to the old stone gods, / Made heathen vows, hoping for Hell’s / Support, . . .”Explanation
The correct answer is the passage that mentions sacrificing to the old stone gods and making heathen vows. This passage directly references the pagan religion of the past by describing the practice of offering sacrifices to ancient deities and making vows in the hope of receiving support from the underworld. This suggests a belief in a polytheistic religion that predates the Christian conversion of the people being described.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following literary terms best describes the underlined words in the following quotation from Beowulf? “Beowulf,/ That mighty protector of men, / Meant to hold the monster till its life / Leaped out”
- A.
A kenning
- B.
A caesura
- C.
An appositive phrase
- D.
A compound predicate
Correct Answer
A. A kenningExplanation
The underlined words in the quotation from Beowulf, "That mighty protector of men," are best described as a kenning. A kenning is a figurative phrase or compound word used in Old English poetry to describe something in a metaphorical or indirect way. In this case, "That mighty protector of men" is a kenning for Beowulf, highlighting his role as a heroic warrior who defends and safeguards the people.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which phrase best restates the underlined words in this quotation from Beowulf? “He who had come to them from across the sea, / Bold and strong-minded, had driven affliction / Off, purged Herot clean (lines 399–401).”
- A.
Had killed the dragon in battle
- B.
Had rid the land of pain and suffering
- C.
Had forced the evil monster from the hall
- D.
Had successfully repelled fate
Correct Answer
C. Had forced the evil monster from the hallExplanation
The phrase "had forced the evil monster from the hall" best restates the underlined words in the quotation from Beowulf. The quotation describes how the person who came from across the sea, being bold and strong-minded, drove affliction off and purged Herot clean. This implies that the individual expelled the evil monster from the hall, which aligns with the phrase "had forced the evil monster from the hall" in the answer.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following is not an element of the epic genre?
- A.
Struggle of good versus evil
- B.
Episodes important to the nation’s history
- C.
National values
- D.
Lighthearted tone
Correct Answer
D. Lighthearted toneExplanation
The epic genre is characterized by certain elements such as the struggle of good versus evil, episodes important to the nation's history, and national values. These elements are typically serious and weighty in nature, conveying a sense of grandeur and significance. A lighthearted tone, on the other hand, is not typically associated with the epic genre. Epics tend to focus on heroic deeds, epic battles, and profound themes, and a lighthearted tone would be incongruous with these characteristics.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Hrunting is
- A.
Beowulf's sword
- B.
The Danes' mead hall
- C.
Grendel’s home
- D.
Wiglaf’s wife
Correct Answer
A. Beowulf's swordExplanation
Hrunting is Beowulf's sword. In the epic poem Beowulf, Hrunting is a powerful weapon given to Beowulf by Unferth, a Danish warrior. The sword is described as a well-crafted weapon with a strong blade. Beowulf uses Hrunting to fight against Grendel's mother in her underwater lair. However, the sword fails to harm her, and Beowulf eventually defeats her with a magical sword he finds in the lair. Hrunting holds significance as a symbol of Beowulf's bravery and strength in battle.Rate this question:
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- 15.
When do most scholar’s believe “Beowulf was written
- A.
8th century
- B.
9th century
- C.
11th century.
- D.
14th century
Correct Answer
C. 11th century.Explanation
Most scholars believe that "Beowulf was written in the 11th century." This is because the manuscript of Beowulf, which is the oldest surviving epic poem in Old English, was discovered in the 18th century and is believed to have been written around the 11th century. The language, style, and historical context of the poem also support this belief, as it reflects the culture and events of the time.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following allusions does the poet make in reference to Grendel?
- A.
Reference to the Anglo-Saxons
- B.
Biblical story of Cain
- C.
Biblical story of Job
- D.
Reference to History of the English Speaking People
Correct Answer
B. Biblical story of CainExplanation
The poet makes an allusion to the biblical story of Cain in reference to Grendel. This allusion suggests that Grendel, like Cain, is marked by his sins and is an outcast from society. Just as Cain was cursed and banished for killing his brother, Grendel is also portrayed as a violent and destructive figure who is rejected by both humans and gods. This allusion adds a deeper layer of meaning to Grendel's character and emphasizes the theme of sin and exile in the poem.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Herot Hall was closed by the Danes for
- A.
A decade
- B.
20 years
- C.
One winter
- D.
12 years
Correct Answer
D. 12 yearsExplanation
Herot Hall was closed by the Danes for 12 years. This means that the hall was shut down and not in use for a period of 12 years. The closure could have been due to various reasons such as repairs, renovations, or perhaps due to a conflict or threat in the region. During this time, the Danes would have been unable to access or use the hall for any purposes.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Beowulf says he won’t use weapons against Grendel because
- A.
They won’t work against him
- B.
He left them behind in Geatland
- C.
Grendel does not use weapons
- D.
Higlac might think less of him
Correct Answer
C. Grendel does not use weaponsExplanation
Beowulf chooses not to use weapons against Grendel because Grendel does not use weapons himself. This decision reflects Beowulf's desire to engage in a fair and honorable battle with his opponent. By forgoing weapons, Beowulf ensures that the fight is based on strength and skill alone, rather than relying on any external advantages. This also demonstrates Beowulf's bravery and confidence in his own abilities.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Grendel’s mother kills Hrothgar’s best friend and
- A.
Carries off Grendel’s arm
- B.
Favorite dog
- C.
Steals his treasure
- D.
Only son
Correct Answer
A. Carries off Grendel’s armExplanation
In the given scenario, Grendel's mother kills Hrothgar's best friend and carries off Grendel's arm. This suggests that Grendel's mother is a formidable and dangerous creature who seeks revenge for her son's injury. By taking Grendel's arm, she not only inflicts physical harm but also symbolically asserts her power and dominance. This action highlights the violent and vengeful nature of Grendel's mother, showcasing her role as a formidable antagonist in the story.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The dragon’s treasure was
- A.
Never found
- B.
Thrown in the sea
- C.
Buried with Beowulf
- D.
Given to Higlac
Correct Answer
C. Buried with BeowulfExplanation
The correct answer is "buried with Beowulf" because in the epic poem Beowulf, it is mentioned that after Beowulf's death, his body was cremated and his ashes were buried along with the dragon's treasure in a mound overlooking the sea. This burial was seen as a way of honoring Beowulf's bravery and accomplishments, as well as ensuring that the dragon's treasure would remain hidden and undisturbed.Rate this question:
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- 21.
How does Beowulf die?
- A.
He is mortally wounded by the dragon
- B.
He is poisoned
- C.
He is stabbed by Hrothgar
- D.
Old age
Correct Answer
A. He is mortally wounded by the dragonExplanation
Beowulf dies because he is mortally wounded by the dragon. This suggests that in the epic poem, Beowulf faces a formidable adversary in the form of a dragon and is ultimately unable to overcome it. The dragon's attack proves fatal for Beowulf, leading to his demise.Rate this question:
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- 22.
How does Grendel respond to the realization that Beowulf will challenge his fighting skills?
- A.
Excitedly
- B.
Indifferently
- C.
Joyously
- D.
Fearfully
Correct Answer
D. FearfullyExplanation
Grendel responds to the realization that Beowulf will challenge his fighting skills fearfully. This can be inferred from the context of the story, as Grendel is portrayed as a fearsome and powerful monster who has terrorized the Danes for years. The prospect of facing a formidable opponent like Beowulf would naturally invoke fear in Grendel, as it threatens his dominance and potentially his life.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The fire dragon is awakened by an act of
- A.
Violence
- B.
Vengeance
- C.
Greed
- D.
God
Correct Answer
C. GreedExplanation
The correct answer is greed. This implies that the fire dragon is awakened when someone acts out of greed. This could mean that the dragon is triggered when someone desires wealth or power and is willing to harm others to fulfill their selfish desires. Greed is a strong motivator that can lead to destructive actions, and in this case, it awakens the fire dragon.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Why does Beowulf want Wiglaf to bring him the jewels from the fire dragon’s castle?
- A.
He is greedy and wants the treasure for himself.
- B.
He wants the comfort of seeing the prize he has won.
- C.
He is afraid that they will fall to others.
- D.
He wants to see if Wiglaf is brave enough to succeed him.
Correct Answer
B. He wants the comfort of seeing the prize he has won.Explanation
Beowulf wants Wiglaf to bring him the jewels from the fire dragon's castle because he wants the comfort of seeing the prize he has won. This suggests that Beowulf values the material wealth and treasures that he has acquired through his heroic deeds. It also implies that Beowulf seeks validation and satisfaction from witnessing the fruits of his labor, reinforcing his status and accomplishments as a renowned warrior.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following does not reflect the oral tradition of the epic Beowulf ?
- A.
Before it was written down, the story of Beowulf was preserved for generations by word of mouth.
- B.
Beowulf reflects the cultural tradition of telling stories in the mead-halls.
- C.
When the thanes feasted, the King gave the best portion of meat to the bravest warrior.
- D.
Scops memorized and recited the poetic verses of Beowulf as a form of entertainment.
Correct Answer
C. When the thanes feasted, the King gave the best portion of meat to the bravest warrior.Explanation
The correct answer is "When the thanes feasted, the King gave the best portion of meat to the bravest warrior." This statement does not reflect the oral tradition of the epic Beowulf because it focuses on the actions and customs of the characters within the story, rather than the actual method of transmission and preservation of the story itself. The other statements, on the other hand, directly relate to the oral tradition, such as the story being preserved through word of mouth, the cultural tradition of storytelling in mead-halls, and the role of scops in memorizing and reciting the verses of Beowulf.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In Beowulf, why does Beowulf sail with his chosen companions to Hrothgar’s kingdom?
- A.
To bring home treasures from that rich kingdom
- B.
To help Hrothgar by destroying a monster and to gain fame for themselves
- C.
To win glory by slaying a fire-breathing dragon
- D.
To take over Higlac’s throne
Correct Answer
B. To help Hrothgar by destroying a monster and to gain fame for themselvesExplanation
Beowulf sails with his chosen companions to Hrothgar's kingdom to help Hrothgar by destroying a monster and to gain fame for themselves. This is evident in the epic poem Beowulf, where Beowulf volunteers to fight Grendel, the monster terrorizing Hrothgar's kingdom. Beowulf's motivation is not solely to gain treasures or to take over a throne, but rather to assist Hrothgar and achieve personal glory through his heroic deeds.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In Beowulf, Wiglaf argues that he and his comrades should help Beowulf fight the dragon because
- A.
Beowulf is too old and sick to fight.
- B.
It will increase Beowulf’s chance of victory.
- C.
Then Beowulf’s comrades can claim the monster’s treasure
- D.
In the past they had promised to repay Beowulf’s gifts and kindness with their lives.
Correct Answer
D. In the past they had promised to repay Beowulf’s gifts and kindness with their lives.Explanation
Wiglaf argues that he and his comrades should help Beowulf fight the dragon because in the past they had promised to repay Beowulf's gifts and kindness with their lives. This suggests that they have a strong sense of loyalty and honor towards Beowulf, and they feel obligated to fulfill their promise. Additionally, by helping Beowulf, they are showing their gratitude and respect for his leadership and generosity.Rate this question:
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- 28.
When Hrothgar’s warriors fight Grendel, “No one / waited for reparation from his plundering claws” (lines 72–73). In this context, the word reparation means:
- A.
Writhing movements
- B.
Mercy
- C.
Wergild or compensation for an injustice
- D.
Loathsome torture
Correct Answer
B. MercyExplanation
In this context, the word "reparation" means mercy. The line suggests that when Hrothgar's warriors fought against Grendel, they did not expect to be spared or compensated for the harm caused by Grendel's attacks. Instead, they fought knowing that they might not receive any mercy from Grendel's destructive actions.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Grendel wouldn’t harm Hrothgar’s throne because
- A.
It was protected by God
- B.
It was built by Giants
- C.
It was guarded
- D.
He couldn’t reach it
Correct Answer
A. It was protected by GodExplanation
The reason Grendel wouldn't harm Hrothgar's throne is because it was protected by God. This suggests that Grendel, being a creature of evil, was unable to harm something that was under the divine protection. It implies that the throne had a spiritual significance and was considered sacred, making it off-limits to Grendel's destructive tendencies.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The Anglo Saxon Period occurred during which years?
- A.
BC 449 - 1066
- B.
AD 1066 - 1409
- C.
BC 400 - 449
- D.
AD 449 - 1066
Correct Answer
D. AD 449 - 1066Explanation
The Anglo Saxon Period occurred from AD 449 to 1066. This period marked the time when the Anglo Saxons, a group of Germanic tribes, invaded and settled in England. It was a significant era in English history as it shaped the language, culture, and political landscape of the country. The Anglo Saxon Period ended with the Norman Conquest in 1066, when William the Conqueror, a Norman ruler, defeated the Anglo Saxons and established Norman rule in England.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The Anglo Saxon Period was also known as
- A.
The Dark Ages
- B.
The Metallic Age
- C.
The Heroic Age
- D.
The Poetic Age
Correct Answer
A. The Dark AgesExplanation
During the Anglo Saxon Period, which lasted from the 5th to the 11th century, there was a decline in cultural and intellectual progress in England. This period was characterized by political instability, invasions by Vikings, and a lack of written records. The term "Dark Ages" is often used to describe this period because of the limited historical information available and the perceived lack of advancements in art, literature, and technology. Therefore, "The Dark Ages" is an appropriate term to describe the Anglo Saxon Period.Rate this question:
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- 32.
For over 300 years, Great Britain was the province of
- A.
Geatland
- B.
Denmark
- C.
The Roman Empire
- D.
The British Empire
Correct Answer
C. The Roman EmpireExplanation
Great Britain was a province of the Roman Empire for over 300 years. This period is known as Roman Britain, which started with the Roman conquest of Britain in AD 43 and lasted until the early 5th century when Roman rule ended. During this time, Great Britain was under Roman control and influenced by Roman culture, administration, and infrastructure.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The Romans first attempted to conquer the British Isles in
- A.
65 BC
- B.
449 BC
- C.
55 BC
- D.
555 AD
Correct Answer
C. 55 BCExplanation
In 55 BC, the Romans made their first attempt to conquer the British Isles. This was during the time of Julius Caesar, who led an expedition to Britain with the aim of establishing Roman control over the island. Although the Romans were initially successful in their invasion, they did not achieve a complete conquest at this time. It was not until later, in 43 AD, that the Romans successfully established a province in Britain.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The Anglo Saxon word "Wyrd" means
- A.
Luck
- B.
Fate
- C.
Persistance
- D.
Determination
Correct Answer
B. FateExplanation
The Anglo Saxon word "Wyrd" refers to the concept of fate. In Anglo Saxon culture, "Wyrd" represented the idea that events and outcomes were predetermined and beyond human control. It encompassed the belief that one's life and destiny were shaped by a higher power or force. Therefore, "Fate" is the correct answer as it accurately captures the meaning of "Wyrd" in Anglo Saxon language and culture.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The Roman occupation of Britain
- A.
Ushered in the toga and laurel wreath as fashionable trends.
- B.
Was a source of great shame to the Britons.
- C.
Ushered in a new era of scholarship and religion
- D.
Made the Britons long for new leadership.
Correct Answer
C. Ushered in a new era of scholarship and religionExplanation
The correct answer is "ushered in a new era of scholarship and religion." This is because the Roman occupation of Britain brought with it advancements in education and the spread of Christianity. Roman influence led to the establishment of schools and universities, as well as the construction of temples and the introduction of new religious practices. This period marked a significant shift in the intellectual and religious landscape of Britain.Rate this question:
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