English I Honors
Mr. Masser
Name:_______________
Mods.:______________
The Great Odysseus Debate
Odysseus is an unusual epic hero in that he uses his intelligence to overcome challenges
as frequently as he uses his physical strength. In overcoming these challenges though,
he frequently makes some questionable ethical decisions. In this assignment you will
debate the merit of Odysseus’s character.
You will be divided into two groups and randomly assigned one of the following
stances:
1. Odysseus is an admirable hero and his virtues outweigh his faults.
Or:
2. Odysseus is not an admirable hero, his fault overshadow his virtues.
Each side will get a maximum of 5 min. to present their opening point using evidence
from the book. Props and visual aides are allowed but not mandatory. After each team
has presented there will be an open discussion/debate period. Raise your hand for the
ball which will entitle you to speak.
Each group will be graded on their opening statement and their preparedness to
answer their rivals’ points raised. Arguments supported by evidence from the text
or actual historical research are worth more than mere opinions!
Everyone is required to contribute three supporting examples to his or her group’s
case. Everyone is also expected to participate by making at least one intelligent
comment in the period. Raise your hand for the ball which will grant you permission
to speak.
Three individual statements backing up my case and their cited textual support:
1.
Textual Support:
2.
Textual Support:
3.
Textual Support:
Grading (30 pts. Total):
1. a. Individual—Contribution of at least one intelligent point to the
discussion/debate (one pt. E.C. for each additional contribution).
(10 pts).
b. Three statements supporting your side’s argument, supported by textual or
historical evidence.
(10 pts.)
2.
Group—Overall effectiveness of your opening statement and preparedness to
intelligently argue your position.
(10 pts.)