8
Answer: ASet 3: Command of Evidence
Explanation
PASSAGE
The Rosetta Stone, discovered in 1799, was key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics. The stone contained the same text in three scripts: hieroglyphics, Demotic, and Greek. Because scholars could read Greek, they worked backward to understand the other two.
Why was the Greek inscription essential to deciphering hieroglyphics?
A. Greek was the most ancient language on the stone.✓ Correct
B. Scholars could already read Greek, providing a translation key.
C. The Greek inscription was longer than the others.
D. Greek was invented after hieroglyphics.
Detailed Explanation
The text states 'Because scholars could read Greek, they worked backward. ' Greek was the known language, providing a bridge.
Key Evidence:
• "scholars could read Greek"
• "worked backward"
Why others are wrong: A (Hieroglyphics were older.), C (Length is not relevant to decipherment logic.), D (Chronology doesn't explain the method.).