Beowulf begins with the funeral of a beloved king.

Often Scyld Scefing seized mead-benches from enemy troops, from many a clan; he terrified warriors, even though first he was found a waif, helpless. For that came a remedy, he grew under heaven, prospered in honors until every last one of the bordering nations beyond the whale-road had to heed him, pay him tribute. He was a good king!

Which sentence best describes how the author uses this setting to develop a theme?

A. The burial finalizes the passing of old traditions.
B. The mourners express the loss of love and hope.
C. The royal funeral illustrates respect for heroic leaders.
D. The river symbolizes how everything moves slowly.