Book 7 Flashcards
What happens when Nausicaa reaches her father’s palace?
Her brothers gather around her unharnessing the mules from the cart and carried the clothes indoors. Nausicaa then retired to her apartments where a fire had been lit.
Why does Athene make Odysseus invisible?
She was concerned for is welfare. Worried that a high-handed Phaeacian might cross his path and insults him and asks him who he was.
How did Athene make Odysseus invisible?
By enveloping him in a thick mist.
How does Athene show Odysseus the way to the house of Alcinous?
Disguised as a little girl, telling him to follow her without word and to look at nobody.
What does Athene advise Odysseus of?
To approach Arete first as she is very wise. She is looked upon as a goddess and is very well loved and respected woman.
Why is it unusual what Athene advises?
Normally you would approach the owner of the house.
What is Alcinous’ palace described as?
A splendid dwelling, a bronze threshold.
What were the bronze walls topped with?
A frieze of dark blue enamel.
What was the mansion guarded by?
Golden doors hung on posts of silver which were set in the bronze threshold.
What else was supported by silver?
The lintel.
What was the door handle made of?
Gold.
On either side of the door what stood?
Gold and silver dogs which Hephaestus had made to keep watch over the palace.
Inside what was there?
Chairs which were draped with a delicately woven cover.
What did maids in the palace do?
Grind apple-golden corn in the hand mill, some weave at the loom, or sit and twist yarn.
Why was the maid’s work good?
Athene has given them outstanding skill in beautiful crafts and such fine intelligence.
What was growing in the palace?
Pear, pomegranates, apple trees, sweet figs and olives.
What was special about the food?
It never fails all year round and is always perfect.
When appearing at the Phaeacians banquet what did Odysseus do?
Threw his arms around Arete’s knees and became visible again.
Why did he throw his arms around her legs?
To plead for help.
Why was Odysseus’ petition good?
He called her father godlike and called himself a supplicant to her husband. After flattery he then asked for help.
Who criticises Alcinous?
Echeneus because he doesn’t do anything when Odysseus sits down.
How does Alcinous show xenia?
He makes his favorite son move, so that Odysseus can sit. They then made a libation to Zeus and sends everyone else home asking that they come the next day.
How do the gods normally honour the Phaeacians?
They sit at their side during a banquet in true form.
How does Odysseus display nostos?
He tells Arete that when he gets back home he shall be content to breathe his last.
