What is the significance of the runestone discovery?

• A. It confirms Viking trade routes.
• B. It proves the runestone is a hoax.
• C. It may provide insights into early written language in Scandinavia.
• D. It reveals nothing about language development.

Answer: (C)

Runestones are early inscriptions carved in runic letters on standing stones from the Viking Age in Scandinavia. Their significance lies in providing a direct glimpse into how the Norse language was written and used in public contexts long ago. By studying these inscriptions, linguists can understand runic spelling, vocabulary, and grammar, and trace how the writing system and language evolved over time. This evidence helps map literacy, regional dialects, and cultural practices in early Scandinavia.

Other options aren’t the main point: while runestones sometimes mention trade or individuals, their primary value is not proving trade routes or settling debates about forgeries; it’s about revealing early written language and literacy in the region.