Question

3
select the correct answer.
read this excerpt from beowulf, in which unferth, one of hrothgars 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 waters 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 will find thee less fortunate issue,
much more will grendel outdo you, if you vie with him in prowess.
which of these words best describes unferths tone?
a. vehement
b. insulting
c. ironic
d. casual

Explanation:

Unferth criticizes Beowulf's past swimming contest with Breca, calling it "mere folly" and claiming Breca "outdid thee entirely." He also warns Beowulf that Grendel will "outdo you" if he "vie with him in prowess." These remarks are disrespectful and meant to belittle Beowulf, which is characteristic of an insulting tone.

Answer:

B. insulting