Odyessy commentary Flashcards
What qualities make Odysseus a hero?
Intelligence, resourcefulness, endurance, love for home and family, bravery, loyalty to the gods, and leadership.
How does Odysseus show resourcefulness?
He always finds a way to survive, whether by tricking the Cyclops, escaping Calypso’s island, or disguising himself as a beggar in Ithaca.
How does Odysseus demonstrate love for his home and family?
Despite sleeping with Calypso, he constantly longs for Penelope and Ithaca, shedding tears for his lost home.
What are some of Odysseus’ less heroic traits?
He can be deceitful, excessively cruel, and emotional, sometimes showing fear and despair.
How does Telemachus grow into his role as a hero?
He takes control of his household, challenges the suitors, embarks on a journey to learn about his father, and shows bravery in the final battle.
What example does Zeus give to inspire Telemachus?
Orestes, who avenged his father Agamemnon’s murder, is presented as a role model.
How does Telemachus display leadership?
He asserts his authority over the suitors and tells his mother to leave the affairs of men to him.
How does Telemachus show cunning?
He keeps secret what he learns about Odysseus from the suitors and plans strategically to overthrow them.
How is Penelope portrayed in the epic?
She is the loyal, clever wife, mourning for Odysseus while cleverly delaying the suitors.
How does Nausicaa help Odysseus?
She provides him with clothing and guidance, showing hospitality, though she is careful to protect her reputation.
How does Calypso’s role reflect the gods’ attitudes toward gender?
She complains that male gods can take mortal lovers, but female goddesses are judged for it.
What role do the female maids play in the final battle?
Twelve maids are executed for sleeping with the suitors, showing the harsh consequences of disloyalty.
How do the gods interfere with Odysseus’ journey?
Poseidon punishes him for blinding Polyphemus, while Athena helps him by guiding Telemachus and disguising Odysseus.
What does Zeus say about human suffering?
Humans blame the gods for their misfortunes, but often their own choices lead to their suffering.
How does Athena manipulate events in Odysseus’ favor?
She encourages Telemachus, improves Odysseus’ appearance, and deflects the suitors’ attacks.
What is xenia, and why is it important?
It is the Greek concept of hospitality. The suitors abuse it, leading to their downfall.
How does Odysseus deal with the suitors?
He shows no mercy, killing them all to restore order and honor in Ithaca.
How does Telemachus treat the minstrel Phemius and the herald Medon?
He spares them, showing his ability to balance justice with mercy.
