The Odyssey
What is an Epic Poem?
A long narrative poem about a legendary
hero who in some way represents the values
of a civilization by incorporating myth,
legend, or folk tales.
An epic is usually drawn from the oral
tradition; it can be performed or used to
educate youth in ancient Greek society.
Set in a heroic age where virtues such as
strength and courage were highly regarded.
Myths
Traditional stories of a culture.
Meant to explain a natural
phenomenon, spiritual beliefs.
Essentially religious since they are
concerned with the relationship
between humans and the
unknown spiritual realm.
Greeks thought of Myths as reality.
The Author - Homer
Poet
Thought to be blind, but describes events as
a seeing person utilizing visual imagery. He
was thought to have a heightened use of his
other senses.
A sagacious man who observed the world
carefully.
Lived around 1200 B.C.
Homer
Wrote the Illiad and the Odyssey epics about the war between the
Trojans and the Greeks which had
happened between 900 and 700 B.C.
The Illiad was the story about the last
year of the Trojan War (10 year war).
Odysseus and his men were able to
get inside the walls of Troy concealed
within the body of the Trojan horse.
The Trojan Horse
The Odyssey
The journey of Odysseus and his men
trying to get home after the Trojan War.
The entire story spans 10 years.
An epic about humans on the journey
of life overcoming temptations and
obstacles to find a place of peace and
joy.
Characteristics of a Hero
Ulysses or Odysseus is meant to
represent the epic hero in Greek
society. His character traits serve as a
role model for Greek children.
California State Standards
3.3 Analyze interactions between main and
subordinate characters (conflicts, motivations, and
influences).
3.4 Determine character traits through narration and
dialogue.
3.12 Analyze the way in which a work of literature is
related to the issues and themes of the time period.
2.2a Write a comprehensive essay that shows the
comparison and contrast between characters.
2.2b Support viewpoints with accurate references to
the text.
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