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.
Two intimate friends cannot be defeated.
Be courageous. Remember how strong you are.
I will stand by you. Now let us attack.”
Gilgamesh felt his courage return.
They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.
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Which statement best paraphrases evidence to support the conclusion that Gilgamesh is courageous?
A.) Humbaba’s face is so terrifyingly hideous that it must have taken great courage for the men to even look at him in the first place.
B.) Encouraged by Enkidu’s bravery, Gilgamesh pretends to be brave and follows Enkidu’s lead in attacking Humbaba.
C.) Enkidu, Gilgamesh’s closest friend, reminds him that he must be courageous so they can defeat Humbaba together.
D.) Despite his momentary horror at seeing Humbaba’s dreadful face, Gilgamesh overcomes his fear with encouragement from his companion.