Question

Read the passage from Beowulf.

At last for the Danemen, When the slaughter was over, their wish was accomplished. The comer-from-far-land had cleansed then of evil, Wise and valiant, the war-hall of Hrothgar, Saved it from violence. He joyed in the night-work, In repute for prowess; the prince of the Geatmen For the East-Danish people his boast had accomplished, Bettered their burdensome bale-sorrows fully . . .

Based on the passage, what is most likely the Danish perspective on the battle?

A. They are proud that Grendel is dead and they helped kill him.
B. They are afraid of Beowulf conquering them now that Grendel is dead.
C. They are sad that Beowulf showed no mercy and Grendel is dead.
D. They are relieved that Grendel is dead and their trials are over now.

Answer 1

What is most likely the Danish perspective on the battle?

D. They are relieved that Grendel is dead and their trials are over now.

The passage illustrates the Danish's relief by knowing that Grendel and his reign of terror have finally died. Their longing wish has been fulfilled, their constant burdens released and their "bale-sorrows" are now relieved, and all of this is due to Beowulf's aid, whom they praise for helping them.

Answer 2

The correct answer is the following: option D. Based on the passage, the Danish perspective on the battle is that they are relieved that Grendel is dead and their trials are over now. As the passage from Beowulf shows, the Danish are relieved and happy that Beowulf killed Grendel and that they will not have to be afraid of the monster anymore: "the comer-from-far-land had cleansed then of evil." shows how relieved the "Danemen" were now that Grendel was dead, and how grateful they were for Beowulf to have come to their land and saved them.