Question

In the Polynesian myth, the heroic god Tane spent time among the humans and became close to them. Meanwhile, the god Atea was battling for power with Tane. In order to help Tane, the thunder god, Fatutiri, gave Tane the gift of the power of lightning. He set one condition, though: Tane was not to use it against Atea until Atea was old. Tane kept his promise, and waited until Atea was gray-haired. At that time, the gods Tane and Atea battled in a fire-making contest. Using the lightning, Tane won; his fires couldn’t be extinguished. Tane killed the god Atea, but set Atea’s spirit free. After this battle, fire was given to humans as a gift because it had been made stable.

What can you infer about the ancient Polynesians and their relationship with the gods.
a.
The ancient Polynesians lived in fear of their gods.
c.
The ancient Polynesians did not believe the gods to be very smart.
b.
The ancient Polynesians saw their gods as wise benefactors.
d.
The ancient Polynesians saw their gods as angry and belligerent.


Please select the best answer from the choices provided

A
B
C
D

Answer 1

The best answer based on the described myth is:

**B. The ancient Polynesians saw their gods as wise benefactors.**

This is inferred from Tane's relationship with humans, his careful adherence to the condition set by Fatutiri, and the ultimate gift of fire to humanity, which suggests a sense of benevolence and support from the gods rather than fear or anger.