The Cyclops

Main Idea/Theme

300

1. What is a central theme in The Cyclops?
    A. Strength is more important than intelligence
    B. Clever thinking can help overcome challenges
    C. Rules should always be broken
    D. Friends are not important

 B. Clever thinking can help overcome challenges

400

2. Which theme is BEST supported by Odysseus’s journey?
    A. Pride always leads to success
    B. Intelligence and patience are more important than physical strength
    C. Gods never interfere with humans
    D. Traveling is easy

 B. Intelligence and patience are more important than physical strength

Character Analysis

100

According to the paragraph below, how does Cyclops seem? 

‘The Cyclops answered me from his cruel heart. “Of all his company I will eat Nobody
last and the rest before him. That shall be your gift.” (p.34)

a. Dangerous

b. Kind

c. Shy

d. Mysterious 

a. Dangerous

200

3. Which trait BEST describes Odysseus?
    A. Weak
    B. Clever
    C. Careless
    D. Fearful

B. Clever

300

Which action BEST shows that Odysseus is smart?
 A. He gives up during challenges
 B. He tricks the Cyclops to escape
 C. He hides from danger
 D. He asks others to solve problems

 B. He tricks the Cyclops to escape

400

According to the quote below, how does Cyclops seem? 

 “Give me more, please, and tell me your name, here and now—I would like to make you a gift that will please you"(p.31). 

A. Mean 

B. Rude 

C. Creative 

D. Kind

D. Kind

Two-Part Questions

300

Part 1: Why does Odysseus get into trouble after escaping the Cyclops?
 A. He forgets his crew
 B. He shows too much pride
 C. He gets lost
 D. He trusts the gods

Part 2: Which detail BEST supports your answer?
 A. He quietly sails away
 B. He tells the Cyclops his real name
 C. He hides from danger
 D. He follows instructions

Part 1: B. He shows too much pride

Part 2: B. He tells the Cyclops his real name

Cause and Effect

200

What is the effect of Odysseus revealing his name to the Cyclops?
 A. He becomes more powerful
 B. The Cyclops helps him
 C. The Cyclops calls on Poseidon for revenge
 D. Nothing happens

C. The Cyclops calls on Poseidon for revenge

Vocabulary

400

6. What does the word “cunning” most likely mean when describing Odysseus?
    A. Strong
    B. Brave
    C. Clever and tricky
    D. Angry

C. Clever and tricky