Question

Which choice best explains why the author put the battle with Grendel's mother at the bottom of the lake? A The lake is difficult territory for the Danes, thus causing doubt for Grendel's mother and the reader. B The lake is a deeply symbolic place for Grendel's mother to hide, thus reinforcing what a complex enemy she is. C The dark underwater hall is the domain of Grendel's mother, thus raising the story's tension and conflict. D The dark lake represents the evil of Grendel's mother, thus contrasting with the goodness of the Danes.​

Answer 1

Answer: D The dark lake represents the evil of Grendel's mother, thus contrasting with the goodness of the Danes.​

Explanation:

Beowulf is a warrior from Geatland who came to rescue the Danes from a monster known as Grendel who had been terrorizing the kingdom every night. Beowulf manages to kill Grendel but is then confronted by Grendel's mother who even though less powerful than her son, is a tougher opponent as she is full of revenge.

Beowulf goes underwater to fight her in a cave at the bottom of a dark lake and upon defeating her, a light shines into the cave. This was meant to imply that Grendel's mother was the evil that had been keeping the cave in darkness but now that she was defeated the light could now come in.