mckaywest11e

Quiz for Primary Source 8.5: Eirik’s Saga

Question

1. Why did Eirik leave Iceland in search of new lands?

He left in search of better economic opportunities.

He hoped to convert pagan peoples to Christianity.

He was forced to leave after a series of violent episodes.

He was not content to lead the quiet life his father planned for him.

Correct. The answer is c. The circumstances under which Eirik left Iceland highlight the endemic violence that plagued his society.

Incorrect. The answer is c. The circumstances under which Eirik left Iceland highlight the endemic violence that plagued his society.

Question

2. Based on their preparations, what was the most likely intent of the members of the expedition to Vinland?

To explore the region and return home with accurate information and maps

To raid any villages and settlements they found and then return home

To settle there and establish farms

To claim the land in the name of their king and the Christian Church

Correct. The answer is c. The number of participants, the fact that the party included both men and women, their decision to bring livestock, and the focus in the saga on Vinland’s wild wheat all suggest an intent to establish permanent agricultural settlements.

Incorrect. The answer is c. The number of participants, the fact that the party included both men and women, their decision to bring livestock, and the focus in the saga on Vinland’s wild wheat all suggest an intent to establish permanent agricultural settlements.

Question

3. Why did the members of the Vinland expedition choose to leave North America?

They believed that the native peoples presented too great a danger.

The land was not as good as they had anticipated.

They were forced out by a competing group of explorers.

Political events in Greenland forced them to return home.

Correct. The answer is a. Despite the fact that the land was excellent, the members of the expedition believed that they could “never live there in safety or freedom from fear, because of the native inhabitants.”

Incorrect. The answer is a. Despite the fact that the land was excellent, the members of the expedition believed that they could “never live there in safety or freedom from fear, because of the native inhabitants.”