HOMER
THE ODYSSEY
Odysseus’ men eat the cattle of Hyperion
STUDENT WORKBOOK
Student’s name…………………………………………….
Gina Fernandez
Page 0
‘HELEN OF TROY’ THE MOVIE
1. Where is Troy? What is the strategic significance of this place?
2. Why was Troy difficult to invade?
3. Who was Aeneas? What happened to him at the end of the Trojan war?
4. Why did Paris wish to go to Sparta?
5. What is Cassandra’s agony? Find out about her relationship to Apollo.
6. Where was Paris shipwrecked?
7. What happened to Paris’ peace mission?
8. When he first saw Helen, who did he think she was and why?
9. Who did she claim to be and why?
10. What is the purpose of the council meeting of the Greek kings?
11. Describe the atmosphere during this meeting.
12. When Paris was brought before the council meeting, why didn’t anyone believe he was a Trojan
prince? How was his position confirmed?
13. How did Paris find out about Helen’s true identity?
14. How did Menelaus know that Paris and Helen had already met? How did this influence his
decision to kill Paris?
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Page 1
15. How did Paris escape?
16. How did Helen end up going with Paris, according to this version of the story?
17. When Helen refers to her “Spartan life” what does she mean?
18. How do the Greeks explain Helen’s departure and what do they decide to do?
19. Who was the leader of the Greek allied force?
20. How is Helen received in Troy by:
a) the Trojan royal family
b) the Trojan people
21. “The face that launched a thousand ships”. Explain this quote.
22. Where did the Greek allied force set up camp?
23. How long did the war last?
24. Describe events during the war years.
25. What was agreed during the peace negotiations?
26. Who / how were the negotiations spoiled?
27. Who did Paris kill during the scramble over Helen?
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Page 2
28. Who did Achilles challenge? Why? What was the challenge? What was the outcome?
29. Who killed Achilles and how? Find out how he got his ‘Achilles heel’.
30. “So dies Greek courage but not Greek cunning”. Explain this quote.
31. What was Odysseus’ plan?
32. “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts”. Explain this quote.
33. How did the Trojans view this gift and what did they do with it?
34. Describe the events that follow.
35. What happened to these characters according to Greek mythology (not the movie):
 Priam
 Paris
 Hecuba
 Helen
 Cassandra
Gina Fernandez
Page 3
BOOK 1
ATHENA VISITS TELEMACHUS
THE PLOT
Explanation of names:
Odysseus: king of Ithaca, creator of Trojan horse
Penelope: wife of Odysseus
Telemachus: son of Odysseus and Penelope
The suitors: a group of Greek (Achaeans) princes and lords who want to marry Penelope (they believe
Odysseus is dead)
Ithaca: Odysseus’ island kingdom
Agamemnon: king of Mycenae (rich kingdom) and leader of allied forces that went to fight in Troy
Klytemnestra: Agamemnon’s wife
Aegisthus: Klytemnestra’s lover
Orestes: Agamemnon’s and Klytemnestra’s son
Phemius: the bard / singer / poet
The story:
Odysseus had been away for approximately 18-20 years:
1. Fighting in Troy for 10 years
2. Lost at sea and in Circe’s island for approximately 2 years
3. On Calypso’s island for 7 years.
Book 1 takes place during Odysseus’ last year away from home ie 18-19 years after he left Ithaca to go
to Troy.
Prooemium (Lines 1-11):
1. Who is the speaker of the words written in Italics?
2. What is a muse?
3. Name the muse of epic poetry.
4. Who is “that resourceful man? (line 1) What does the word resourceful suggest about him?
5. Who does Homer blame for the loss of Odysseus men? Why? Quote from the passage.
Page 3 Explaining why Odysseus is delayed from returning home:
1. Who is Calypso? Why did she prevent Odysseus from returning home?
2. Which other god prevented Odysseus from returning home?
Pages 4-5 Athena represents Odysseus’ interests in mount Olympus:
The setting is now on mount Olympus where the gods live.
The gods are having a council meeting and talking about humans. Zeus thinks it is unfair that humans
always blame them (the gods) for everything bad that happens to them. He uses Aegisthus as an
example:
Aegisthus had an affair with queen Klytemnestra. When her husband Agamemnon returned home after
the Trojan War, the gods sent Hermes to warn Aegisthus to end the affair. Instead of obeying,
Aegisthus and Klytemnestra killed Agamemnon. When Agamemnon’s son Orestes, grew up, he
avenged the death of his father by killing his mother and her lover.
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Page 4
1. Athena tells Zeus, she doesn’t care about Aegisthus. Who does she care about instead? What does
she complain about?
2. Who keeps Odysseus away, according to Zeus, and why?
Athena is pleased with Zeus’ reply and suggests that they should help Odysseus return home.
3. What does Athena suggest Hermes should do?
4. What does she propose to do?
Page 6-11: Athena in disguise visits Telemachus
The setting is now the palace of Odysseus in Ithaca.
1. Who is Athena disguised as?
2. What is Telemachus doing and how is he feeling when Athena visits him? Provide evidence to
explain your answer.
3. Who welcomes Athena / Mentes? How does he welcome her? What does this show about him?
4. This is an example of the custom of guest friendship. What does this custom involve? Why did it
come about (give 2 points)?
5. Describe the entrance of the suitors. What does this suggest about them?
6. On pages 6-7 we have a description of what happens in a symposium. Describe.
7. When Telemachus speaks to his guest, what is the tone of his voice and how does he feel? Provide
evidence to explain your answer.
8. When Telemachus asks Athena who he is, she tells lies to be more convincing. What is her
answer? (Page 8)
9. Outline what Athena says to Telemachus in lines 206-212. Discuss her tone and her purpose.
10. What reasons does Telemachus give in lines 230-250 to explain why he feels so unhappy?
11. What advise does Athena give Telemachus in lines 270-294?
12. What does Athena say to Telemachus in lines 294-303 in order to force him out of his depression?
13. How did Athena depart from Telemachus’ home? What is the significance of this?
14. What effect did Athena have on Telemachus? Quote key words to provide evidence.
Pages 11-12: meeting Penelope
1. Why does Penelope come into the dining hall?
2. What evidence is there that Penelope is bold yet abides by the customs of her time?
3. What does she ask Phemius to do and why?
4. What is Telemachus’ reaction? What does this show about him?
5. How does Penelope feel about Telemachus’ response? Quote from the poem to explain your
answer.
Page 12-13: Talking to the suitors.
1. At the end of book 1, Telemachus talks bravely to the suitors. Briefly outline what he says. Why
this sudden change?
Gina Fernandez
Page 5
WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF BOOK 1?
Complete this table by providing evidence:
FUNCTION
It gives background
information to help
us understand the
story.
It introduces some
of the main
characters.
EVIDENCE
It helps us
understand the
gods and how they
relate to humans.
It introduces some
of the major
themes.
It introduces
ancient customs.
It introduces
Homer’s poetic
devises.
Sacrificing a bull
Gina Fernandez
Page 6
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK I
Provide evidence (quote) to show that Athena is the patron goddess of both Odysseus and
Telemachus.
Give a page / line reference for every example.
Evidence that Athena is the patron goddess of Odysseus
Page/line
1
2
Evidence that Athena is the patron goddess Telemachus
Page/line
1
2
3
4
5
THE ROLE OF ZEUS IN BOOK I
What is the role of Zeus in Book I? Provide evidence to illustrate your answers.
Zeus’ role is:
1
2
3
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Page 7
TELEMACHUS IN BOOK 1
HIS AGE AND APPEARANCE:
1. What is Telemachus’ approximate age in Book I? How did you come to this conclusion?
2. Describe Telemachus. Provide examples/epithets/quotes from Book I to illustrate your
answer.
HIS CHARACTER
The changes in the character of Telemachus:
How is Telemachus portrayed when we are first introduced to him? Provide evidence and
source.
1
2
3
4
How is Telemachus portrayed after Athena has visited him? Provide evidence and source.
1
2
3
4
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Page 8
PENELOPE IN BOOK I
How is Penelope portrayed in book I? Provide examples for each characteristic. Give a page
reference for each example.
PENELOPE’S CHARACTER
EVIDENCE FROM BOOK I
THE RESOURCE:
1. Outline the story depicted in the resource below.
2. What do we learn about the character of Penelope from this story?
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Page 9
BOOK 5
ODYSSEUS AND CALYPSO
THE PLOT
1. What is the setting:
 In pages 63-64?
 Pages 64-69?
 Page 69-75?
 Page 75
2. Who speaks up in support of Odysseus (P.63)? Who does she address and what exactly does
she have to say about Odysseus’ predicament?
3. What do the words “keeps him captive there” show about Athena’s feelings for Calypso?
(P.63)
4. Outline Zeus’ prophesy (P.63-64).
5. Who is the Giant killer? Describe his footwear. What does he carry in his hands and for
what purpose?
6. Describe Calypso.
7. Describe Calypso’s island.
8. Describe the example of guest friendship found in P. 65.
9. What’s the significance of the words “it was Zeus who sent me”? (P. 65, l. 98-99)
10. What words of Hermes’ (P. 65) suggest
a) that gods have human feelings too?
b) that gods live in a hierarchical society?
11. What is Hermes’ message?
12. How does Calypso respond:
 Initially? – Quote key words. (p. 66)
 Finally? Quote key words. (p.67-68)
13. The very first time we meet Odysseus, he is not the man we expect. Explain why. (P. 66-67)
14. What do we learn about Calypso on page 67?
15. How does Calypso show her great love for Odysseus? (P.67, lines 195-7)
16. What’s the great gift Calypso offers Odysseus (p. 68, l. 209)? Give THREE reasons to explain
why he can’t accept?
17. Calypso believes Odysseus wants to return home because of Penelope. What does she have to
say about this? How does Odysseus respond? Comment on his words “wise Penelope” (P. 68,
P.217). What then drew him back to Penelope?
18. What does Odysseus’ response show about his character? Provide evidence to explain your
answer. (P. 68)
19. What do we learn in P. 69 about Odysseus? Provide evidence to explain your answer.
20. To sum up, what help did Calypso give Odysseus?
21. Who creates trouble for Odysseus while at sea and why? What kind of trouble?
22. What is Odysseus afraid of when he is caught in the storm (P. 70 lines 306-312)?
23. Name the goddess who helped him? What was her advice and how did he respond?
24. When and how does Athena help Odysseus (P. 73 and 75)?
25. Name the place that Odysseus landed in.
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Page 10
THE CHARACTER OF CALYPSO
Calypso’s appearance:
Describe Calypso and provide evidence from Book 5 - Give the page / line for each example.
Calypso’s character:
Provide an example for each characteristic. Give the page / line for each example.
Calypso’s character
Evidence
Feisty / hot tempered
Competitive
Loving towards
Odysseus
Caring / generous
Give ONE other
characteristic
OGYGIA / CALYPSO’S ISLAND
Describe in detail Calypso’s island:
Give THREE reasons why Odysseus was anxious to return home:
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Page 11
BOOK 5 CALYPSO
You are a famous Hollywood film director, planning a movie version of The Odyssey.
Write an advertisement for a Hollywood casting magazine, advertising for an actress to play
Calypso. In this advertisement you must:




Explain what Calypso’s role involves
Outline the qualities you will be looking for in the actors you audition
Provide relevant illustrations / quotes from the text
Include references to possible actors who would be suitable
Gina Fernandez
Page 12
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 5
For each characteristic, give TWO examples. Give the page / line for each example.
Characteristic
Example
Example
Resourceful / skilled
Brave / courageous /
bold / defiant in the
face of danger
Loyal
Physically strong
Tactful
Thirst for glory
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Page 13
THE GODS IN BOOK 5
THE ROLE OF ATHENA:
HOW DOES ATHENA HELP / PROTECT ODYSSEUS?
Page/line
Page/line
Page/line
WHO IS INO / LEUCOTHOE AND HOW DOES SHE HELP ODYSSEUS?
Page/line
Page/line
Page/line
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HOW TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS ON CHARACTER
Consider the following answers:
Will they earn credit? What is wrong with them?
Re-write them:
QUESTION: How is Calypso portrayed in Book 5? Discuss at least THREE characteristics and
provide examples to illustrate your answer.
First answer:
Calypso is portrayed as loving, loyal, brave and feisty. Examples of this is when she is willing to
disobey Zeus and give Odysseus immortality so she can be with him forever. She is brave and
determined to get her own way – especially shown when she tells Hermes what she thinks – she dares
to challenge Zeus’ command. Her loyalty is also shown when she helps Odysseus with everything to
help him prepare for his journey.
Second answer:
She gets all worked up when Hermes tells her to let Odysseus go.” You are hard- hearted you gods, and
unmatched for jealousy”. Also, she has a strong character – talking about defying Zeus, not doing what
he says. And, “My unhappy friend, don’t go on grieving” shows that she is caring.
How to answer questions relating to characteristics:





You must give an epithet to describe each characteristic eg cunning, deceitful
You must not give the same epithet twice (unless the question asks for it)
Be careful of synonyms eg brave and courageous, deceitful and untrustworthy – you will not
get credit for repeating the same characteristic
Do not give an example without discussing what it shows about the character
Develop your answers fully
Gina Fernandez
Page 15
BOOK 6 NAUSICAA
THE PLOT
1. What kinds of people live on the island of Scherie and who is their king?
2. Describe Nausicaa.
3. What literary technique is the phrase “the bright-eyed Athena”? Give TWO reasons to
explain why the bard may have used this technique.
4. What thoughts had Athena put into Nausicaa’s head? How? With what purpose?
5. What does Nausicaa say to her father (Page 77)? What does this tell us about Nausicaa?
Quote from the passage on page 77 to illustrate your answers.
6. How does Athena intervene to ensure that Odysseus and Nausicaa meet? Why does the
goddess want them to meet?
7. Describe their meeting. What does her behaviour reveal about her character compared to
that of her maids?
8. What do Odysseus’ first words to Nausicaa show about his character? Quote to illustrate
your answer.
9. What two things does Odysseus ask of Nausicaa? (Page 80)
10. Describe the example of guest-friendship on page 81.
11. How and for what purpose does Athena intervene in Page 82? Does she achieve her purpose?
Provide evidence to justify your answer.
12. What do the words “my white-armed girls” tell us about Homeric society.
13. Describe in detail the plan that Nausicaa devises in order to help Odysseus reach her father’s
palace?
14. What does this plan show about Nausicaa?
15. How does Nausicca let Odysseus know that she likes him? What does this show about her?
Odysseus meets Nausicaa at the river
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THE CHARACTER OF NAUSICAA
NAUSICAA’S APPEARANCE:
Describe Nausicaa and provide evidence from Book 6 - Give the page / line for each example.
NAUSICAA’S CHARACTER:
Provide an example for each characteristic. Give the page / line for each example.
Nausicaa’s character
Evidence
Smart / cunning
Courageous / bold
Generous
Abides by customs of the
time / high morals
1. What does Odysseus ask of Nausicaa?
2. How does Nausicaa help Odysseus?
3. How does Nausicaa show she is interested in Odysseus?
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THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 6
For each characteristic, give ONE-TWO examples. Give the page / line for each example.
CHARACTER
ISTIC
Tactful
EXAMPLE
Charming
Modest
Handsome
Cunning
Courageous
Nausicaa followed by Odysseus returns to Scherie
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Page 18
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK 6
Athena visits Nausicaa and puts thoughts of marriage into her head!
How does Athena intervene in Nausicaa’s life?
Page/line
Page/line
Page/line
How does Athena help Odysseus?
Page/line
Page/line
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Page 19
BOOK 9
ODYSSEUS VISITS THE CYCLOPS
THE PLOT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
What adventures did Odysseus and his men experience on:
 the land of the Cicones?
 the land of the Lotus Eaters?
Describe the land of the Cyclops.
How was the Cyclopes’ society different than that of Odysseus’?
With what intentions did Odysseus approach Polyphemus’ cave?
Polyphemus resembles both a man and a superhuman, in actions as well as behaviour.
Provide evidence to support this statement.
How does Odysseus appeal to the Cyclops? (Page 117, line 269-272)
How does Polyphemus react to the mention of Zeus in Page117?
Why did Odysseus lie when Polyphemus asked where his ship was? What does this show
about Odysseus?
Why didn’t Odysseus revenge the savage death of his friends right from the
beginning? What does this show about Odysseus?
Why does Odysseus lie about his name?
List in the right order, the steps Odysseus takes in order to blind Polyphemus. What does
this show about Odysseus?
How do Odysseus and his men get out of the cave and what is the irony of this?
Polyphemus’s speech to his favourite ram contradicts whatever impressions we have of
him. Why? Provide evidence to illustrate your answer.
Why does Odysseus reveal his true identity in the end? What is the outcome? So was
Odysseus wise or rather stupid?
To whom does the Cyclops pray in P. 123-4? Why is it unusual that he is praying? (Think
back to what happened in P 117).
What is the Cyclops’ prayer (explain in detail) and how does this affect Odysseus and his
crew?
Gina Fernandez
Page 20
DEALING TO THE CYCLOPS
What’s in a name?
Explain the meaning of the word Polyphemus:
How significant is this for Odysseus the hero?
What do the Cyclopes look like?
Describe the land of the Cyclopes?
The Theme Of Guest Friendship
How does this theme apply to BOOK 9?
Provide THREE specific examples from Book 9 to illustrate:
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Page 21
POLYPHEMUS’ CHARACTER
Provide an example for each characteristic. Give the page / line for each example.
Cyclops’ character
Evidence
Irreverent
Brutal
Sentimental
Cunning
Foolish / gullible
Other
The blinding of Polyphemus
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Page 22
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 9
For each characteristic, give TWO examples. Give the page / line for each example.
CHARACTERISTIC
Resourceful / skilled
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE
Brave / courageous /
bold / defiant in the
face of danger
Cunning / smart /
intelligent
Loyal
Physically strong
Tactful / cautious /
intuitive
Thirst for glory
Revengeful
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Page 23
BOOK 19
EURYCLEIA RECOGNISES ODYSSEUS
THE PLOT
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
Why did Odysseus suggest they put the weapons in the storeroom?
Why does he not want the maids to help out?
How does Athena help in this task?
Who is Penelope compared to in page 251 and what does this suggest about her?
Name the maid who abuses Odysseus (page 251). How does Penelope react and what does
this show about her?
6) What is the purpose of the conversation between Odysseus and Penelope?
7) What do we learn about Penelope from pages 252-3? Provide examples to illustrate your
answers.
8) Make a list of the lies Odysseus tells Penelope. Why does he lie to her?
9) Describe the brooch (page 255). What is the symbolic significance of the image depicted on
this?
10) Explain in detail what Penelope asks her maid to do for Odysseus. What is this an example
of? (page 258)
11) Who washes Odysseus’ feet? Why does Odysseus ask for her?
12) How and why does she recognize Odysseus (page 259)? Describe her reaction (page 261)
13) Where/how did Odysseus get the scar?
14) What did Odysseus do when she recognised him? Why was he so nasty to his old nurse?
15) How does Athena intervene in this incident?
16) What does Penelope tell Odysseus when they resume their discussion?
17) Describe Penelope’s dream and explain what it symbolises. How does Odysseus interpret the
dream? What is unusual about this dream?
18) What contest does Penelope intend to call and with what purpose?
19) Why does Odysseus encourage Penelope to hold this contest? What does this tell us about his
character?
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Page 24
Eurycleia washing Odysseus’ feet
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 19
For each characteristic, give TWO examples. Give the page / line for each example.
CHARACTERISTIC
Resourceful / skilled
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE
Plans ahead / wellplanned
Charming
Cunning / smart /
intelligent / quickwitted
Tactful / cautious /
intuitive
Other?
HOW DID ODYSSEUS GET HIS SCAR?
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Page 25
TELEMACHUS IN BOOK 19
How is Telemachus portrayed in book 19? Provide examples for each characteristic. Give a
page / line reference for each example.
TELEMACHUS’ CHARACTER
EVIDENCE FROM BOOK 19
Authoritative
Obedient / respectful towards his
father
PENELOPE IN BOOK 19
How is Penelope portrayed in book 19? Provide examples for each characteristic. Give a page /
line reference for each example.
PENELOPE’S CHARACTER
Cunning
EVIDENCE FROM BOOK 19
Loving / loyal
Cautious
Caring / kind / compassionate /
generous
Physically beautiful
Other?
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Page 26
THE SLAVES IN BOOK 19
Who are the following slaves? How do they behave?
WHO?
BEHAVIOUR
Eurycleia
Melantho
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK 19
EPISODES WHERE ATHENA
INTERVENES
(give page / line reference)
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WHAT SHE DOES AND WHY
Page 27
SYMBOLISM IN BOOK 19
PURPLE CLOAK:
What is the symbolic significance of Odysseus’ purple cloak?
THE GOLDEN BROOCH:
Who gave Odysseus the golden brooch and when / why?
What was depicted on the brooch?
PENELOPE’S DREAM:
The dream:
Gina Fernandez
Symbolic significance?
Symbolic significance:
Page 28
BOOK 20
PRELUDE TO THE CRISIS
THE PLOT
1) What is Odysseus thinking about (P.266-7) and what does this tell us about his character?
2) What does Athena say to Odysseus (p.267) and how is this helpful to him?
3) What evidence does Odysseus ask from the gods to prove that they will help him? How do the
gods respond?
4) Name the three shepherds and identify the friends/enemies of Odysseus.
5) Describe the behaviour of the suitors during the symposion. What was Athena’s involvement in the
events that took place and for what reasons does she interfere?
6) How does Telemachus speak to the suitors and what does this show about him?
7) Describe the strange events that upset the suitors while feasting? Who was
responsible and what is the symbolic significance of these visions?
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 20
Characteristic
Patient / selfcontrolled /
shows self
restrain
Example(page / line)
Example (page / line)
Other?
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK 20
Episodes where Athena intervenes.
Give page / line reference
Gina Fernandez
What she does and why.
Page 29
THE SLAVES IN BOOK 20
Who are the following slaves? How do they behave?
WHO
BEHAVIOUR
Eumaeus
Melanthius
Philoetious
PRAYERS AND OMENS IN BOOK 20
Describe Penelopes’ prayer:
Describe Odysseus’ prayer:
Which god heard his prayer?
How did he respond?
The bird of omen (Page 272):
Describe the events relating to ‘the bird of omen’:
How do the suitors interpret this omen? What do they do as a result?
Gina Fernandez
Page 30
THE SUITORS IN BOOK 20
Ctesippus’ actions:

Agelaus’ complaint?
 Telemachus response:

The prophet Theoclymenus:
Describe the bad omen?
Who caused these?
How did the suitors behave?
Symbolic significance?
Gina Fernandez
Page 31
BOOK 21
THE GREAT BOW
THE PLOT
1.
2.
3.
4.
Where did Odysseus get his famous bow and arrow? Why did he not take it with him?
How does the great bow highlight the heroism of Odysseus? (Give TWO points)
Who introduces the contest to the suitors? What’s the prize?
Provide evidence (TWO quotes) from pages 278-9 to show that Penelope does not want to
marry again.
5. Name the slave who passed the bow and arrows to the suitors.
6. Who began the contest? Why did Homer have this person take part in the contest? How
successful was he and what does this show about him (answer in detail)?
7. How successful were the suitors and what’s the significance of this? Quote from page 280-1
words, which show how the suitors feel about this contest.
8. For what reasons does Odysseus reveal his identity to his two shepherds? How does he prove
his identity to them? Name the two shepherds. How do they receive him?
9. What tasks does he allocate to them?
10. Explain in detail how Odysseus gets hold of the bow and takes part in the contest? (you must
explain what role Penelope and Telemachus play during this scene. P. 283-7.
11. In what ways are the events at the bottom of page 285 similar to what happened in Book I?
Odysseus shooting the suitors
Gina Fernandez
Page 32
IN A FLOW CHART, DESCRIBE THE EVENTS RELATING TO THE
KILLING OF THE SUITORS





THE SLAVES IN BOOK 21
How does he react when
Odysseus reveals his identity?
Eumaeus
What tasks does Odysseus allocate to him?
Philoetious
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Page 33
THE CHARACTER OF TELEMACHUS IN BOOK 21
Characteristic
Physically strong
Example (Page / line)
Example (Page / line)
Mature
Cunning
Skilful
Patient / selfcontrolled / shows
self restrain
Authoritative
Other?
THE CHARACTER OF PENELOPE IN BOOK 21
Characteristic
Loving / loyal
Example (Page / line)
Example (Page / line)
Woman of high
morals / abides by
customs of the day
Bold / brave
Authoritative
Other?
Gina Fernandez
Page 34
THE CONCEPT OF GUEST FRIENDSHIP IN BOOK 21
What evidence of guest friendship is there in Book 21?
Provide page / line references
Gina Fernandez
Page 35
BOOK 22
THE BATTLE IN THE HALL
THE PLOT
1. Describe in detail the main events during the battle.
2. Give at least THREE quotes from pages 288-297 which highlight Odysseus heroism and
explain how they do that.
3. What is Telemachus’ mistake (page 291-2)? How does Telemachus behave when his mistake
is revealed? What does this incident show about Telemachus? How does Odysseus feel about
this?
4. How does Athena get involved in pages 293-296 (make a list of the kinds of help she offers)?
How does she test Odysseus and Telemachus strength and courage? Why is it important that
the two men kill the suitors without too much help from Athena? What help does she
provide?
5. Whose life does Odysseus spare and why?
6. When Eurycleia sets eyes on Odysseus, what does he resemble? What is the symbolic
significance of this?
7. Page 298 – Odysseus says “I’ll have no cries of triumph here”. Who does he say this to and
why? What does it show about Odysseus’ character?
8. How are the disloyal female and male slaves punished? Is Odysseus hard on them / nasty or
do they deserve to be treated in this manner?
9. Why did Odysseus ask for a fire?
10. In page 289 Homer refers to Odysseus as a “master-strategist”. Provide evidence from book
22 to justify this description.
Gina Fernandez
Page 36
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN BOOK 22
Characteristic
Patient / selfcontrolled /
shows self
restrain
Master
strategist /
forward
planner
Example (Page /line)
Example (Page / line)
Revengeful
Has thirst for
glory /
honourable
Merciful
Other?
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK 22
Episodes where Athena intervenes:
Give page / line reference.
Gina Fernandez
What she does and why:
Page 37
BOOK 23
ODYSSEUS AND PENELOPE
1. Why is Penelope unaware of what happened in her house?
2. Who tells Penelope Odysseus is home? Describe how she does this. What is Penelope’s
response?
3. Describe Penelope’s behaviour as she goes to meet Odysseus. What does this show about her
character?
4. What does Telemachus say to his mother? Discuss (what do you think about his words? Is he
justified or not and why?).
5. What does Odysseus do next and why? What does this reveal about Odysseus?
6. How and why does Athena intervene (page 304-5)?
7. How does Penelope greet Odysseus next? What trick does she play on him? Why? What
does this reveal about her?
8. What is Odysseus’ reaction to Penelope’s trick?
9. Describe their emotional reunion.
10. What does Odysseus have to do before he settles down and why?
Odysseus and Penelope
Gina Fernandez
Page 38
THE ROLE OF ATHENA IN BOOK 23
Episodes where Athena intervenes.
Give page / line reference
What she does and why.
Odysseus meets Telemachus
Gina Fernandez
Page 39
GUEST FRIENDSHIP IN HOMERIC SOCIETY
Customs / rituals / traditions
Hosts were responsible for welcoming guests
into their home and offering hospitality
Examples (give page / line)
Host is responsible for guest’s welfare until
their departure
Formal rituals of hospitality included:
 Welcome

Washing their feet

Offering them food and drink

Offering them rest / bed

Inquiring after their name and
circumstances

Exchange of gifts
Possible reasons why this custom started:
1 There were no hotels in those days so this
custom enabled people to travel.
2
3
How did this custom benefit Homeric society?
How did the suitors abuse the custom of guest friendship?
Who was the god of guests?
Gina Fernandez
Page 40
HOMER’S CONCEPT OF THE GODS AND THE PART THEY PLAY IN
PEOPLE’S LIVES
For each characteristic, provide evidence and give the page / line
Homeric gods
Evidence / book / line
They are
anthropomorphic
Portray human
characteristics
They have superhuman
abilities
Competitive / in conflict
with each other /
interfere in each other’s
sphere of control
Gods live in a
hierarchical society
Zeus is omnipotent
expects to be obeyed by
other gods and humans
The gods play an
important part in
people’s lives / they
control the lives of
humans / they intervene
in positive or negative
ways
Gina Fernandez
Page 41
THE CHARACTER OF ODYSSEUS IN THE ODYSSEY
Explain how Odysseus is portrayed in the Odyssey and provide TWO examples for each
characteristic. Give page / line
Characteristic
Gina Fernandez
Evidence (Page / line)
Page 42
THE CHARACTER OF PENELOPE IN THE ODYSSEY
Explain how Penelope is portrayed in the Odyssey and provide TWO examples for each
characteristic. Give page / line
Characteristic
Gina Fernandez
Evidence (Page / line)
Page 43