What is the effect of the author's use of assonance in the following line from "the raven? "
"for the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name lenore-"
a. it creates emphasis on lenore.
b. it explains lenore's appearance.
c. it illustrates the theme of the poem.
d. it sets the informal tone of the poem

The answer to the question is letter D, "It sets the informal tone of the poem." The poem, "The Raven", was written by the famous Edgar Allan Poe and it mainly deals with the story of the depressed man and the talking raven. It theme is described as having a "supernatural atmosphere, and a stylized language."

This question is missing the options. I have found the complete question online. It is the following:

Which additional evidence from the text best supports the inference that Beowulf is stronger and braver than the average warrior?

A. “I hereby renounce / sword and the shelter of the broad shield, / the heavy war-broad: hand-to-hand / is how it will be, a life-and-death / fight with the fiend.”

B. “And the minstrel sang, / filling Heorot with his head-clearing voice, / gladdening that great rally of Geats and Danes.”

C. “People from Geatland have put ashore. / They have sailed far over the wide sea. / They call the chief in charge of their band / by the name of Beowulf.”

D. “A party remained / under orders to keep watch on the arms; / the rest proceeded, led by their prince / under Heorot’s roof.”

The evidence that supports the inference that Beowulf is stronger and braver than the average warrior is:

A. “I hereby renounce / sword and the shelter of the broad shield, / the heavy war-broad: hand-to-hand / is how it will be, a life-and-death / fight with the fiend.”

Explanation:

Beowulf is an epic hero, which means he has qualities that make him special. Epic heroes are commonly stronger and braver than a normal person would be. They do not fear monsters or warriors, often leaving the comfort of their homes to go fight a bloody battle. Beowulf is no exception. Among the options provided, letter A is the one that best shows his incredible courage and strength. Beowulf is willing to fight with his bare hands. No shield, no sword. He knows there is a chance that he will die, but he still trusts his own strength and skills enough to do it anyway.