Characters and Epithets
Odysseus- list some epithets
Which character is described by the epithet “Son of Laertes and gods of old, master mariner and soldier”?
In Book 1 and early narrative framing, he calls on the Muse at the poem’s opening line (“Sing in me, Muse”)
Who is Homer?
Loyalty/fidelity
Which theme is shown when Penelope remains faithful while Odysseus is away?
A descriptive phrase used to characterize someone
What is an epithet?
Book 9 Odysseus has to force three of his men back onto the ship and leave abruptly so that they will not eat this because they will lose hope of home.
Which book contains the episode where Odysseus and his men encounter the Lotus Eaters, and what happens?
Morning or Sunrise- the epithet
Who is personified and called the "Dawn with Fingertips of Rose"?
Odysseus original reason for leaving Ithaca.
What is to fight in the Trojan War?
The recurring motif that connects Odysseus’ identity with his reputation. HINT: This is a literary device found in epic poems.
Epithets
An extended, elaborate comparison — e.g., Cyclops’ eye hissing around the spike compared to a smithy
Define an epic simile and give one place in the Cyclops episode where Homer uses it.
___ prays to ___ that Odysseus will return home under strange sail, lose companions, and endure bitter days at home.
From Book 9: What does Polyphemus pray to his father Poseidon to send upon Odysseus?
Poseidon- what is his epithet
Which god is often referred to with the epithet “Blue girdler of the islands”?
“Nobody” (or “Nohbdy”)
In Book 9, what false name does Odysseus give to the Cyclops?
Violations of xenia (suitors’ abuse of hospitality) provoke vengeance. Provide one example.
How does the theme of xenia (guest‑friendship) create conflict with the Cicones, Polyphemus, and in the palace at Ithaca?
Identify the device in the line: “weeping like a wife weeps for her lord.”
What is an epic simile?
His loyalty and desire to return to Ithaca/family (homesickness and fidelity) prevent permanent stays
In Book 10 (Circe episode), what keeps Odysseus from staying permanently with Circe or Calypso?
Circe- what is one of her epithet
Identify the figure described by the epithet “the nymph with the sun-bright hair.”
Orders his men to plug their ears with beeswax and has himself tied to the mast.
In Book 12, what precaution does Odysseus take so his men do not sail into the Sirens’ danger?
Journey/self-discovery, perseverance
Which theme is emphasized by Odysseus’ long wanderings and trials (his growth and endurance)?
The audience (and some characters) know Odysseus’s identity or hints while other characters do not, building tension, such as when Odysseus returns to Ithaca disguised as a beggar.
How does Homer’s use of dramatic irony appear?
Odysseus strings and shoots the bow successfully
In Book 21 (the bow contest), what action proves Odysseus is truly the owner of the great bow since it is an act only he can perform?
Sirens- what is their epithet
Which group is called “the singers of death”?
In Part 2 (Books 21–23), the challenge Penelope sets to test the suitors and determine her husband.
What is the suitors must string Odysseus’ great bow and shoot an arrow through twelve axe heads (only Odysseus can)?
Poseidon obstructs, Athena aids- you name the theme suggested.
How does divine intervention (gods like Athena and Poseidon) shape the theme of fate versus free will in the listed books?
The use of epic ___ and vivid ___ function in the Cyclops blinding scene to affect the reader’s reaction.
Epic similes and imagery.
They create visceral imagery and dramatize violence and craft, making the reader feel the brutality and cleverness.
Cite the episode and explain the significance: Odysseus hiding his men beneath the rams.
Book 9 — Odysseus has his men hide under the rams so they can sneak out without being felt by Polyphemus; this demonstrates cunning and human resourcefulness.