Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh backed away. He said, "How dreadful Humbaba's face has become! It is changing into a thousand nightmare faces, more horrible than I can bear. I feel haunted. I am too afraid to go on." Enkidu answered, "Why, dear friend, do you speak like a coward? What you just said is unworthy of you. It grieves my heart. We must not hesitate or retreat." Which sentence best states the theme of the excerpt?
Answer
A
Enkidu is a loyal source of encouragement.
B
Cowardice leads to defeat and death.
C
People must persevere despite their fears.
D
Gilgamesh needs support to overcome his fear.
Explanation
Gilgamesh is frightened and wants to stop, but Enkidu urges him not to hesitate or retreat. The exchange emphasizes continuing despite fear, which is the idea expressed by “People must persevere despite their fears.” Enkidu’s encouragement supports that theme, but it is not the broader lesson by itself.
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