Read the passage below, and identify its two central ideas. Then explain how each central idea is backed up by supporting details. Passage
Having a pet is a great way to reduce stress, but the decision to care for a pet should not be taken lightly. Studies show that the simple act of petting an animal can decrease levels of stress-producing hormones in the body, which can help to lower blood pressure. Pet ownership also has psychological benefits, such as enhancing feelings of safety, independence, and control, which lead to a greater sense of relaxation. Pets make wonderful companions, but it's also important that owners ensure they have the ability to take care of their animals properly. Pets are often unable to care for themselves and must rely on their owners for food, shelter, and exercise. Owners should consider if they can properly provide a pet with these necessary things before bringing one home. Pets can be both a great joy and a big responsibility.

a. unlikely

for improbable?

throughout the ancient epic of gilgamesh, the protagonist, gilgamesh of course, exhibited many character traits that made him a true epic hero. one great trait that gilgamesh acquires of an epic hero is that he's a courageous and confident leader. in the text enkidu is too afraid to fight, but he's positive that gilgamesh has the ability to triumph against humbaba. gilgamesh tells enkidu to not be afraid and then continues on to remind him of all the victories he's had against similar foe. gilgamesh proves that he's confident by encouraging enkidu and shows he's courageous when enkidu ask gilgamesh to battle humbaba alone because he knows that gilgamesh will reign victorious.

another characteristic that makes gilgamesh an epic hero is that he's brave and takes risks. "dread surged through gilgamesh, terror flooded his muscles, his heart froze, his mouth went dry, his legs shook, his feet were rooted to the ground. / gilgamesh felt his courage return. they charged at humbaba like two wild bulls." when reading the first part of the quote you see that gilgamesh is terrified of humbaba, and realizing that humbaba is the antagonist he's about to battle is taking a big risk. gilgamesh soon shows how brave he is by not letting his fear of humbaba overtake him, instead he went charging into the face of fear and triumphs.

the correct answer should be a