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Classical Civilisation > World of The Hero: The Odyssey > Flashcards

World of The Hero: The Odyssey Flashcards

1
Q

What was the poetic metre which the Homeric epics were composed in?

A

The dactylic hexameter.

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2
Q

What are the features of the poetic metre which the Homeric epics were composed in?

A

The dactylic hexameter has six feet. Each foot can be made up of one long and two short vowel sounds, or two long vowel sounds, this allows the poet to vary the pace

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3
Q

Who composed the Homeric epics?

A

Language analysis tells us the poems were composed by a Greek who lived in Ionia probably in about 725-700BC

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4
Q

Why was Homer thought traditionally to be blind?

A

Homer is thought traditionally to be blind as the Bard Demodocus in Book 8 of the Odyssey is blind

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5
Q

What was blindness associated with

A

Blindness was often associated with divine inspiration: what the bard sings, he must have received from the Gods

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6
Q

Where was Ionia

A

Now the West Coast of Modern Turkey - thought to be where Homer lived

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7
Q

When were the epics broadly set?

A

The epics were set during the Trojan War, broadly in the Bronze Age Mycenaean Period

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8
Q

What was the Bronze Age Mycenaean Period

A

The last phase of the Bronze Age, from about 1600 - 1100 BCE, centred on palace societies such as that in Mycenae

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9
Q

What is Mycenae

A

A rich palace centre

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10
Q

Who was Mycenae home to

A

Mycenae was the home of Agamemnon

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11
Q

What references to Homers own time are in the epics

A

Iron is mentioned as well as bronze

Bodies are cremated, not buried

Warriors carry two spears, not one

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12
Q

how were the Homeric poems composed

A

By Oral Tradition - the result of hundreds of years of tales being transmitted by bards

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13
Q

What is the Homeric question

A

The debate surrounding Homer:

Did he exist

Did the same person compose the Odyssey and the Iliad

Were the epics composed by one person or many individuals

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14
Q

what is an epithet

A

A word or phrase added to a name or object to denote its nature or qualities e.g. thoughtful Penelope

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15
Q

What is formulae

A

Phrases that slot into the narrative - familiar markers of time and rituals

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16
Q

what is a rhapsode

A

Reciter of standard texts who performed at public festivals

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17
Q

Who are the two Bards in the odyssey

A

Phemius and Demodocus

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18
Q

what is the significance of the bard in the Odyssey

A

The presence of the bard is a key part of the story of Odysseus homecoming

Odysseus himself assumes the role of the bard in 4 books - his skill in telling stories will help him get safe passage back to Ithaca, fool his household, and enable him to kill the Suitors.

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19
Q

What is Phemius’ role in the structure of the poem

A

Phemius presence frames the poem

In book 1 he sings about the Achaeans return from Troy

In book 22 he escapes being killed by Odysseus

He is last seen sitting on the altar of Zeus

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20
Q

What is Demodocus’ role in the structure of the poem

A

Demodocus sings 3 songs in Book 8 as a prelude to Odysseus’ 4 books of stories

All his stories resonate in some special way with Odysseus’ predicament

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21
Q

What is the first story sung by Demodocus in Book 8

A

The first story concerns a quarrel between Odysseus and Achilles.

There is no reference to this episode outside the Odyssey

been included to match Odysseus with the greatest of the Greek warriors and to enhance his reputation

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22
Q

what is the second story told by Demodocus in Book 8

A

The 2nd story is about Ares and Aphrodite

The divine lovers are caught through the trickery of a wronged husband and a net

Link to Penelope as she has been weaving her own trickery to deceive the Suitors

Moral of the story is that wrong will be punished

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23
Q

what is the 3rd story told by Demodocus in Book 8

A

The 3rd and final story is about the stratagem of the Wooden Horse, sung at Odysseus’ own request

We see his cleverness in reminding the audience of one of his own heroic acts

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24
Q

when is the link between Odysseus and the bard brought to a climax

A

The link between Odysseus and the bard are brought to a climax when Odysseus picks up the bow

It will at once allow him to reveal his identity and punish the suitors

connection with parallel image in which the stringing of the bow is mirrored by the stringing of the lyre

what will destroy the suitors is the final note of a perfectly performed song

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25
Q

what is the plot of Book 1

A

10 years since end of Trojan War

everyone except Odysseus have returned home

Odysseus is kept on the island of Ogygia by Calypso

Penelope is waiting for Odysseus to return, Telemachus is in despair

Athene asks Zeus to allow Odysseus to return Home

Athene fills Telemachus with strength and confidence

Telemachus rebukes Penelope and ponders Athenes advice in bed

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26
Q

what is the plot of book 2

A

Telemachus calls the assembly and criticises the Suitors

Antinous in turn criticises Penelope

Zeus sends an omen and Telemachus secretly leaves

Athene accompanies him disguised as Mentor

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27
Q

what is the plot of book 3

A

Telemachus visits Nestor in Pylos

He finds out about the return home of other Greek warriors, but gets no news of Odysseus

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28
Q

what is the plot of book 4

A

Telemachus visits Helen and Menelaus

They tell him about Odysseus’ exploits in Troy and that his father is still alive

Telemachus leaves for Ithaca

The suitors plan to ambush him

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29
Q

what is the plot of book 5

A

Zeus sends Hermes to order Calypso to release Odysseus

She reluctantly agrees and he builds a raft and leaves

Poseidon destroys his raft but Ino helps him to eventually make land and he falls asleep

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30
Q

what is the plot of book 6

A

Odysseus has reached the land of the Phaeacians

Athene sends a dream to Nausicaa suggesting she should go down to the river to wash some clothes

When she is there she meets the naked Odysseus who she looks after and directs to the palace

she asks him not to accompany her for fear of scandal

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31
Q

what is the plot of book 7

A

Odysseus is directed to the palace by Athene in disguise

Description of palace and gardens show how special this place is

Odysseus begs for help form Arete in the hall

well received by King Alcinous and promised passage home

Arete recognises his clothes and asks who he is but he evades questioning

they all go to bed

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32
Q

what is the plot of book 8

A

Phaeacian assembly agrees to take Odysseus home, everyone goes to palace for a banquet

Demodocus entertains them

Alcinous suggests an athletics contest as he sees Odysseus is upset

Odysseus is challenged and hurls the discus the furthest

Demodocus sings of the affair of Ares and Aphrodite

more dancing gifts and feasting

Odysseus weeps at a song about Troy and Alcinous finally asks him who he is

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33
Q

what is the plot of book 9

A

Odysseus reveals his identity and tells the story of his adventures with the Cicones, the Lotus Eaters, and Polyphemus the Cyclops

as he leaves the blinded Cyclops, Odysseus shouts out his own name allowing the giant to call upon his father Poseidon to punish Odysseus

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34
Q

what is the plot of book 10

A

arrives at island of Aeolus and stays for a month

kings gift is bag which contains all the hostile winds

just when they can see home the crew open the bag and the ships are blown back to Aeolus, who this time send them away

Arrive at Telepylus where the Laestrygonians destroy 11 of the ships

Odysseus ship escapes and comes to Aeaea, home of Circe who transforms some of his men into pigs

Odysseus with help from Hermes resists Circes magic and with the men restored to human form they are entertained for a whole year

Circe tells Odysseus that he must visit the Land of the Dead

As they leave Elpenor falls off the roof and dies

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35
Q

what is the plot of book 11

A

Odysseus goes to the Land of the Dead and carries out the rituals described by Circe

He meets Elpenor who asks to be buried

Teiresias who tells him of his future

His mother who answers his questions about family

Odysseus is ready to stop his talk but Arete and Alcinous want him to continue

He goes on telling of encounters with Agamemnon, Achilles, Ajax and various heroes and villians

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36
Q

what is the plot of book 12

A

Odysseus and his men return to Circes palace and bury Elpenor

Circe warns Odysseus of the dangers of the voyage home

They reach Thrinacie where the men eat the cattle of the sun god

the sun god demands vengeance and Zeus destroys the ship

Odysseus is the sole survivor and gets to Calypso’s island (linking up to book 5)

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37
Q

what is the plot of book 13

A

Odysseus tale ends and laden with gifts he sets sail for home

he is asleep when the Phaeacians leave him on Ithaca

Poseidon wants to punish the Phaeacians for transporting Odysseus by encircling their city with mountains, though Zeus dissuades him

Odysseus wakes up not knowing where he is but Athene arrives in disguise and Odysseus lies to her about his identity

Athene reveals herself and helps him to plan his return to the palace

Athene then goes to Sparta to fetch Telemachus back

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38
Q

what is the plot of book 14

A

Odysseus goes to see Eumaeus, a loyal swineherd

Eumaeus laments the absence of his master and tells of his disgust at the behaviour of the suitors

he shows perfect Xenia towards his guest

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39
Q

what is the plot of book 15

A

Telemachus leaves Sparta and returns to Ithaca, safely slipping past the murderous Suitors

Meanwhile, Eumaeus tells Odysseus his story

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40
Q

what is the plot of book 16

A

Telemachus arrives at Eumaeus’ hut and meets the beggar (Odysseus)

Telemachus sends Eumaeus to the palace and Athene tells Odysseus to reveal himself to his son

In the palace the Suitors are furious that Telemachus has evaded their ambush

Penelope berates Antinous for plotting against her son

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41
Q

what is the plot of book 17

A

Telemachus greets his mother

The suitors are enjoying themselves

Eumaeus and the beggar meet the servant Melanthius who is abusive

they arrive at the palace

the beggar Odysseus enters the hall, begs for food and is assaulted by Antinous

Penelope sends for the beggar who replies that he will talk to her later

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42
Q

what is the plot of book 18

A

Odysseus fights with Irus and wins

Penelope sees the Suitors, and beautified by Athene, extorts valuable gifts from them

Odysseus is impressed by her cunning

He is insulted by Eurymachus who throws a stool at him, he ducks and it misses

Amphinomus calms the situation and the Suitors leave

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43
Q

what is the plot of book 19

A

Odysseus and Telemachus remove the weapons from the hall

Odysseus tells Penelope about his travels, his tale is a mixture of truth and lies

Penelope asks Eurycleia to wash the beggars feet and the nurse sees the scar. Odysseus warns her to say nothing

Penelope tests the beggar to find out whether he really met Odysseus, and asks him to interpret her dream

she tells him about the challenge with the bow

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44
Q

what is the plot of book 20

A

Odysseus and Penelope both have sleepless nights worrying about the Suitors

The next day, the Suitors return for a festival

Odysseus is introduced to Philoetius

Zeus sends omens

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45
Q

what is the plot of book 21

A

Penelope brings the bow to the Suitors and issues her challenge

Telemachus attempts to string it and almost succeeds

The Suitors fail

Odysseus reveals himself to Eumaeus and Philoetius

Eurycleia bars the doors

Odysseus strings the bow

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46
Q

what is the plot of book 22

A

Odysseus begins to shoot the Suitors

Telemachus goes to the store room to fetch more weapons

he realises that he has left the door open and catches Melanthius taking weapons

Athene disguised as Mentor helps Odysseus and eventually all the Suitors are killed

The house is cleansed and the treacherous servants killed

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47
Q

what is the plot of book 23

A

Eurycleia tells Penelope that Odysseus has returned but she does not believe her maid

eventually she goes down and sits with her husband in the hall

Athene has made him handsome but she will not acknowledge him until she has tested him

Penelope is finally convinced of his identity and they go off to bed

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48
Q

what is the plot of book 24

A

The ghosts of the Suitors arrive in Hades

Odysseus is reunited with his father

The suitors relatives prepare to take their revenge but Zeus and Athene intervene restoring peace to Ithaca

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49
Q

what are some of the critiques of book 11 (visit to the underworld)

A

odysseus does not need to visit the underworld for the plot, there is no direct consequence to his visit.

he leaves circe in book 10 and returns to her in book 12 - she gives him the same advice about his journey as Teirsias did

Agamemnon gives Odysseus advice to make a secret approach when he returns to Ithaca but surely Odysseus is too clever to need that advice

it results in problems of continuity as somebody would have noticed Elpenor’s body
and as Telemachus must be thirteen but he is described as in peaceful possession of his lands as though he is much older

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50
Q

how does book 11 (visit to the underworld) add to the Odyssey

A

fits in well with epic as is another adventure on a long journey

tells us more about Odysseus character

emphasise his heroic qualities - Only heroes like Herakles can go down to Hades and return

we see a more emotional side to Odysseus - interaction with his mother

Trojan war heroes are relevant to his past and his heroic status - all seen as close companions to Odysseus

explains the presence of the suitors as laertes left and is not in control

links with themes of family in the catalogue of women

links with themes of loyalty in agamemnon and clytaemnestra

links with themes of justice - the suitors will be punished

links with themes of storytelling - underlines odysseus skills in storytelling

links with themes of the value of life - achilles would have anything rather than death

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51
Q

How is the Narrative of the Episode of the Phaeacians so important to the Odyssey

A

The narrative provides:

a bridge between the fantastical and the real world

an opportunity for the flashback

a contrast with the Suitors

echoes of family life at the palace in Ithaca

contrast with other episodes eg the Cyclops

opportunities for other stories - the bard tells 3 stories - Odysseus retells the story to Arete to explain the cloak

Tension - through the creation of an audience who may not be friendly

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52
Q

how is the theme of family life and relationships promoted through the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

The theme of family life and relationship is promoted through:

the close relationship of Arete and Alcinous

an affectionate father-daughter relationship

Nausicaa’s brother, who are waiting for her

servants who work productively

Eurymedusa having a close relationship with Nausicaa, as Eurycleia has with Telemachus

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53
Q

how is the concept of kleos explored during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Odysseus says that if Alcinous takes him back to Ithaca, he will have everlasting fame

Nausicaa hopes she will be remebered for saving Odysseus

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54
Q

how is the importance of time to the hero emphasised during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Odysseus is honoured by being given much treasure

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55
Q

how has Zeus an important role during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Zeus - travellers like Odysseus are sacred to Zeus, the patron of supplicants

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56
Q

how has Athene an important role during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

She helps but is wary of upsetting Poseidon by appearing in front of Odysseus

as goddess of handicrafts she gives the Phaeacian women their outstanding wool-making skills

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57
Q

how has Poseidon an important role during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

His hostility to Odysseus underlies the episode

although he is the ancestor of Alcinous and the Phaeacians ability to sail magically fast is a gift from him, he is threatening

he has foretold that one day he will wreck one of their returning ships

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58
Q

what do we learn about the behaviour of the hero during the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Book 8 - Odysseus needs to establish his heroic status without revealing his identity

in responding to an insult that he is a merchant he accepts the challenge to compete in the games

athene makes him taller and gives him divine beauty

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59
Q

what do we learn about xenia from the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Nausicaa gives a good definition of Xenia when she explains to her companions why they should look after Odysseus

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60
Q

how does deception run through the Episode of the Phaeacians

A

Athene pretends to be various people - the daughter of Dymas, a young girl, a herald and a bystander

Nausicaa does not admit to her father that she is thinking of marriage

Alcinous pretends to not know her secret thoughts

Odysseus has an ulterior motive in flattering Nausicaa and she has an ulterior motive in responding to him

Athene makes Odysseus look more handsome

Odysseus does not tell Arete the whole truth about Calypso

Odysseus hides his identity throughout books 6, 7, and 8

The bard sings about the deception of Hephaestus and the trickery of the wooden horse

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61
Q

how does Homer use time in the structure of the Odyssey

A

Events are not revealed in a chronological order

it covers a long expanse of time or space

it concerns Odysseus’ ten year long journey from Troy to Ithaca but we accompany him for very little of that time

within the books themselves, time can be rushed over or dwelt upon

62
Q

how are the first 3 years of Odysseus absence narrated in the Odyssey

A

Years 1 -3 are told in flashback books

63
Q

how are years 4-10 of Odysseus absence narrated in the Odyssey

A

Years 4 -10
7 years hidden by Calypso

No information except for the last few days

64
Q

how is year 10 of Odysseus absence narrated in the Odyssey

A

Year 10

From Ogygia to Scherie

From Scherie to Ithaca

65
Q

how is the flashback in books 9 to 12 important

A

separates the fantasy element from the real-life Ithaca books

allows Odysseus to project his own character

gives Odysseus a heroic warrior scene, as he raids the Cicones, taking all the supplies he needs

is a means of telling Odysseus’ past, present and future

allows him to find out about the current situation in Ithaca

affects the response of the audience who will feel a sense of complicity with the teller

introduces dramatic irony - the audience know that the storyteller must have got the better of the agressors

allows us to view Odysseus as one of the company of great heroes, now dead

provides a double irony - since Odysseus is the master spinner of tales, can we really believe anything he is telling us

xenia - this story is Odysseus’ gift to the Phaeacians in return for their hospitality

66
Q

what are epithets normally used to describe

A

often describe personal characteristics such as cunning or thoughtful

sometimes they define status as in bright-eyed athene or white-armed Nausicaa

essential nature of objects or places is also expressed in epithets eg black ship tuneful lyre

form phrases which fit into the metre of poetry and can be slotted in during composition

67
Q

what is formulae normally used to describe

A

phrases which slot into the narrative, familiar markers of time and ritual eg rosy-fingered dawn

often occur in scenes which are repeated called type scenes

  • retiring for the night
  • Penelope and her veil
  • Greeting a stranger
68
Q

what is the importance of parallel scenes

A

repeated images, scenes, actions, snatches of dialogue and similes are woven into the narrative and the patterns produced bring an added level of understanding and appreciation

69
Q

give some examples of parallel scenes

A

many of the repeated scenes have resonances with the destruction of the suitors

the descriptions of xenia all follow a similar pattern

bards songs in book 8 have resonances throughout the epic

the olive bush and the boar

repetitions of wisps of smoke, fires and hearths which links Odysseus with stages of his homecoming

Penelope linked with the women in Phaeacia, with Arete and Nausicaa

Eurymaeus and Eurycleia both spill water in their excitement at recognising a loved one

70
Q

what is the importance of speeches and dialogue

A

display a characters rhetorical skills through clever use of language to persuade, manipulate or provoke

convey character through the tone that the speaker uses

emphasise irony

create atmosphere by being, for example, shouted or whispered

reveal much about relationships

convey emotion

71
Q

what is the importance of Odysseus speeches

A

show his:

ability to spin a convincing tale

ability to twist language to his own advantage

familiarity with the gods

refusal to be patronised or insulted

belief that the laws of Zeus must be obeyed

desire for kleos

desire for time

love of Ithaca

skills as a craftsman

72
Q

what is the purpose of description in the odyssey

A

the inclusion in the middle of a fictional world of everyday objects described with the detail of a close-up photograph brings the Odyssey alive

they are easily imagined by the audience

Homer uses sounds effectively

Communication can be effective in its subtlety

use of small human observations

73
Q

what is a homeric simile

A

The Homeric Simile is one which is extended into a complete picture, giving more aspects of similarity to contemplate and often opening up new perspectives

74
Q

what is the purpose of stories

A

useful tool for the oral poet building his poem

stories provide suspense, because odysseus could be found out, and they are rich in dramatic irony, because the audience is fully aware of the truth

other stories take the form of digressions, such as the bow and the origins of the scar - they have a dramatic purpose in freezing the action at a crucial point, but also provide more evidence of Odysseus heroic past

75
Q

what is a patronymic

A

Patronymic - the name of the father, given with, or instead of, the name of a character

eg Odysseus Son of Laertes or Son of Laertes

76
Q

Outline what makes a Homeric Hero

A

Noble birth

Relationships with Immortals

Kleos

Physical Strength and Beauty

Excellence in War

Excellence with words

Resourcefulness

Time

Nostos

77
Q

Explain how noble birth makes a Homeric hero

A

A noble birth is essential and heroes are often referred to by a patronymic

a hero views his family as part of his heroic status

achilles asks Odysseus about his father whom he feels he should be protecting, and is concerned that his son should be gaining the glory due to a hero

Odysseus status is affected by the actions of his son

when athene sends Telemachus to visit Pylos and Sparta it is partially so that he too can begin to build up his own kleos

78
Q

explain how relationships with immortals makes a Homeric hero

A

Heroic individuals attract divine attention because of their qualities

some divinities are supportive, but others may be hostile

the gods would not be interested in inferior beings, so divine aid is a mark of heroism, not weakness

79
Q

Explain how kleos makes a Homeric hero

A

A hero may choose a short, famed life over a longer life in obscurity

Odysseus chooses the challenge of returning to Ithaca over concealment with Calypso, even though she offers him immortality

Being talked about is an aim of the hero, because without kleos, heroic status is impossible

when odysseus reveals himself to the Phaeacians, his announcement that the whole world knows of his fame is not unacceptable arrogance - it is establishing his kleos

a hero is a hero for as long as men talk about his exploits

80
Q

explain how physical strength and beauty make a Homeric hero

A

a physical appearance to match the nobility of the hero is essential, and Odysseus broad shoulders and strong thighs make lesser beings aware that they are in the presence of a hero

81
Q

explain how excellence in war makes a Homeric hero

A

a hero’s achievements and the resulting kleos often take place on the battlefield

Odysseus has already achieved heroic status fighting in Troy, and now, in the Odyssey, his battle is with witches, cannibals, monsters and finally his own wifes Suitors

82
Q

explain how excellence with words makes a Homeric hero

A

Excellence in arguing and winning with words is important for a hero, and is Odysseus’ great skill

83
Q

explain how resourcefulness makes a Homeric hero

A

A hero has physical skills, metal agility and a capacity to survive, drawing on his inner resources.

He will not give up the challenge to face a difficult situation and win, and even looks for opportunities to prove his heroism

84
Q

explain how time makes a Homeric hero

A

Time is valuing of a hero’s achievement by public praise and honour

this valuing comes in the form of gifts, and a hero will measure his status by the number and value of the gifts he receives

In the Odyssey, the gifts are in the form of treasure - a tangible measure of the glory owed to him

Public honour is crucial, and so a hero who feels that his reputation is being questioned will act to retrieve his honour

85
Q

what is nostos

A

Nostos

the journey home

the family, both past and future, is an integral part of the hero’s make-up, and going back to them is a heroic ideal

86
Q

describe Ithaca

A

Odysseus’ home

a rough land which nurtures fine men

Athene talks of its resources, describing corn, wine, pasture for goats and cattle, timber and watering places that never fail

the people have respect for divinities - their water supply is presided over by a shrine and a cave on the shore is home to nymphs

87
Q

who is loyal in Odysseus’ household

A

Eumaeus, Eurynome, Eurycleia and Philoetius

88
Q

who is disloyal in Odysseus’ household

A

Melanthius, Melantho and the twelve maids

89
Q

Describe the Cyclopes

A

Odysseus as narrator describes the race of the Cyclopes before he relates his adventure with Polyphemus

he makes clear their lack of civilised ways - they have no assemblies for the making of laws, nor any established legal codes, but live in hollow caverns

90
Q

describe the Phaeacians

A

their land Scherie is an idyllic country with flowing rivers and a constant supply of perfect fruit

the city is beautiful with a lavish palace

their civilisation is refined

they spend their time sailing and their ships even guide themselves

the women are outstandingly skilled at the loom and intelligent too

91
Q

what are some reasons to question the positive image of the Phaeacians

A

Odysseus is warned to keep himself out of view because the people have little affection for strangers - they are great sailors but have no contact with other peoples

Their temple is dedicated to Poseidon the enemy of Odysseus

When Odysseus arrives as a suppliant, Alcinous has to be reminded that a suppliant should not be left sitting in the hearth

Arete insists that Odysseus secure his treasure lest the Phaeacian crew steal something

Alcinous announces that the gifts will have to be paid for through a collection from the people

92
Q

how does direct speech help characterisation in Homer

A

More than half of the Odyssey is in the form of direct speech and this is essential to characterisation

many of the conversations are in a domestic setting and so we learn from them about family dynamics and relationships as well as about the speaker

93
Q

how does epithets help characterisation in Homer

A

Epithets help the listener to focus on the essential features of a character

giving the parentage (the patronymic) is traditional in epic, and is a sign that a character has some rank

94
Q

how does a narrative voice help characterisation in Homer

A

the character is sometimes presented by the impersonal narrator (Homer)

The characters in books 9-12 are all seen through Odysseus eyes since he is telling his tale to the Phaeacians - but can we believe a word he is telling us?

95
Q

Describe Odysseus

A

initially a broken man who can only sit and weep

he is attractive

he is cunning and manipulative and intuitive

he is skilled and resourceful

has a gentle side - meeting with his mother

has physical excellence with weapons

96
Q

what roles do we see Odysseus in

A

he is a hero

leader of his men 
captive 
master of his palace 
beggar 
husband 
son 
father
97
Q

describe Telemachus

A

at least twenty years old

impetus for the action - Penelope to remarry once Telemachus has a beard

initially weak enough to have let the Suitors take control

by the end assertive enough to act when he has to to support his father

perfect house - good xenia

athene brings about the change from boy to assertive young man

immortals help only heroes and Telemachus has been deemed worthy of a visit

98
Q

describe Penelope

A

cousin of Helen and Clytaemnestra

portrayed as the faithful wife weeping for her husband

her fidelity is emphasised in Odysseus encounter with Agamemnon whose treacherous wide Clytaemnestra took a lover and murdered her husband on his return form Troy

shrewd and thoughtful and as cunning as Odysseus

debating whether or not to remarry

desire for acquiring treasure like Odysseus

instructive and strong when collecting the bow and laying down the challenge for the Suitors

99
Q

describe the crew

A

the proem tells us that the disasters that befall the crew are their own fault as it was their own disobedience that caused their downfall since they slaughtered and ate the cattle of the sun god

sometimes the crew are the sensible party - they beg Odysseus to leave the cave of the cyclops

the crew, not Odysseus, realise they should be leaving Circe if they are to get back to Ithaca

100
Q

who is Eurylochus

A

Eurylochus is a member of Odysseus’ crew - he is the only crew member seen acting independently and in opposition to Odysseus

in book 10 he is irritating as he refuses to return to Circe’s palace and then changes his mind, not wanting to remain alone on the ship

a coward, he provides a good foil to the heroic Odysseus who feels like lopping his head off there and then

In book 12 it is Eurylochus who proposes they beach the ships on Thrinacie

101
Q

who is Elpenor

A

Elpenor is a member of Odysseus’ crew who has had too much to drink one night and the next morning jumps up, forgets that he is on the roof and falls head first to his death

his soul goes to hades and his body lies unburied

is the youngest of the crew, not much of a fighter, and not bright

he dies a death so unheroic that nobody seems even to have noticed - no kleos for him

irony in the fact that Elpenor arrives in Hades before his leader

102
Q

who is Calypso

A

the nymph who keeps Odysseus on Ogygia for 7 years

her name means Concealer

She sings and weaves

she provides good xenia to Hermes and Odysseus

offers Odysseus immortality

obeys Zeus’ commands but is unhappy the gods are forcing her to give up Odysseus

although immortal is portrayed as a sensitive human

103
Q

who is Ino

A

a nymph who saves Odysseus at a time when Athene is reluctant to intervene for fear of upsetting Poseidon

she tells Odysseus to cast off the waterlogged clothes Calypso has given him and instead gives him a veil as a buoyancy aid

the veil is a particularly feminine attribute and reminds us of Penelope who covers her head in modesty when she meets the Suitors

104
Q

who is Nausicaa

A

a Phaeacian

inspired by Athene in a dream to do her brothers washing and start thinking about marriage

part of athenes plan to get clothes to the naked Odysseus and ensure that Nausicaa will not run away like a frightened girl

confident and feisty

once Odysseus has been washed and beautified by Athene, she sees a potential husband before her

105
Q

who is Arete

A

a Phaeacian

descendant of Poseidon and the people look upon her as a goddess

she is a wise woman and can settle even mens disputes

both Nausicaa and Athene tell Odysseus to approach her first because once her support is secured Alcinous will follow

Caring mother, loyal wife and associated with weaving

powerful within her household

106
Q

who is Alcinous

A

a Phaeacian

descended from Poseidon and is proud of his special relationship with the gods

when Odysseus arrives he is pouring the customary bedtime libation to Hermes and he goes on to order a libation to Zeus as god of the Suppliants, undertaking to return Odysseus to Ithaca

family man, good ruler and generous

107
Q

who is Polyphemus

A

Cyclopes, son of Poseidon

dimisses xenia and suppliants claiming the Cyclopes are stronger than gods and cares nothing for Zeus

good housekeeper and takes care of his lambs and kids, produces cheese

prays to Poseidon to make Odysseus lose all his ships and find trouble in his home

108
Q

who is Circe

A

Goddess/witch

Lives on Aeaea

singing and the loom

tricks and bewitches the men into pigs

once she realises who Odysseus is she offers xenia and is the perfect hostess

sleeps with Odysseus

gives information about Hades, how to survive the Sirens, get past Scylla and Charybdis and how to avoid disaster on Thrinacie

109
Q

who is Eumaeus

A

Swineherd, loyal slave

proud of his job and keen to do his best for the absent Odysseus

shows courage and loyalty when he hands the bow to Odysseus

his ignorance of Odysseus identity increases the dramatic irony

110
Q

who is Eurycleia

A

faithful nurse of both Odysseus and Telemachus

Laertes treated her with respect and did not sleep with her

loyal and affectionate

recognises Odysseus scar when washing his feet

points out to Odysseus those maids who are disloyal

111
Q

who is Eurynome

A

Penelopes House keeper

bathes and clothes Odysseus before the meeting with Penelope

lights the way to bed for Odysseus and Penelope

112
Q

who is melanthius

A

the goatherd - represents corruption in Odysseus’ household

socialises with the suitors and takes pleasure in insulting Eumaeus and the beggar

throws a stool at Odysseus

during the fighting finds his way to the weapon store and enables the suitors to fight back

113
Q

who is Melantho

A

one of the disloyal servants and the mistress of Eurymachus

she insults the beggar taunting him for coming to the palace

her behaviour is particularly treacherous as Penelope has brought her up as her own child

114
Q

who is Mentes

A

Mentes is the King of Taphians

Athene takes his form when she visits Telemachus in Book 1

115
Q

who is Medon

A

Medon is the herald and minstrel who has been forced into the service of the Suitors

he cowers under a chair amid the fighting and is spared by Odysseus

116
Q

Who is Mentor

A

Mentor is a supporter of Telemachus

Athene appears disguised as him in Book 22

117
Q

how many suitors are there

A

There are 108 Suitors

118
Q

who is Antinous

A

Suitor

openly hostile to Telemachus, attempts to kill Telemachus

Odysseus once saved his life

throws a stool at the beggar Odysseus

when presented with the bow, knowing he is uncapable of stringing it, he suggest they postpone the challenge to the next day when Apollo would choose the winner

shot through the neck by Odysseus before he could realise what had happened

119
Q

who is Eurymachus

A

Suitor

has the same evil intentions as Antinous but covers them in a more friendly exterior

makes a reassuring speech to Telemachus and tries to soothe Penelope telling her he would never harm her son but both are false

friend of the treacherous palace servants Melanthius and Melantho

during the fighting tries to talk his way out of trouble, offers Odysseus replacement cattle and gold

dies when arrow enters his nipple and ends in his liver

120
Q

who is Amphinomus

A

Suitor

Homer tells us he is a man of honour, Penelope finds his conversation pleasant

dissuades the suitors from further attempts on Telemachus life - wishes the beggar good luck and warns of the perils of not respecting guests

Odysseus urges him to go home and stirs his feelings of guilt

he remains and dies with Telemachus spear stuck in his back

121
Q

what different forms do deception and disguise come in

A

physical disguise to hide ones identity

changes in physical form in order to manipulate the reaction of somebody else

behaviour which has a hidden motive

things said which are not true

things not said

word play and double meanings

deliberate, calculated tricks

stories

dreams

mind-changing substances

physical hiding or concealment

122
Q

why do characters use disguise

A

for self preservation

to manipulate the reactions of others

to test others

to test themselves

to achieve a goal

123
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and Telemachus

A

there is a brief period during which Telemachus laments the absence of the very person he is speaking to and then Athene gives the signal

Telemachus first reacts with disbelief on seeing Odysseus but is finally convinced and there is much sobbing with joy

124
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and Argus

A

Argus recognises Odysseus by wagging his tail and dropping his ears

Argus’ master is home, his 20 year waiting duties are over, and he can release himself to death

for odysseus all the emotion when faced with such dogged loyalty is expressed by a turning of the head and a tear brushed away

the brevity and understatement give this scene its extreme poignancy

125
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and Eurycleia

A

the recognition comes in 2 phases

the observation from Eurycleia that she has never yet seen a stranger who has reminded her so much of Odysseus and

the bowl clattering recognition hen she sees the scar

Odysseus then has to use desperate threats to silence her

126
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and Eumaeus and Philoetius

A

it is not until the very moment before the challenge of the bow that Odysseus reveals his identity

he has chosen this moment leaving no time for the men to betray accidently their masters presence before the crucial challenge

127
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and the Suitors

A

The Suitors do not recognise Odysseus until he strings the bow

he does not reveal his name

instead he reveals the crimes they have committed against him: stealing his wealth, raping his maids and courting his wife

at the moment they recognise him, he pronounces their death sentence

128
Q

describe the recognition between Odysseus and Penelope

A

Eurycleia brings the news to Penelope

Penelope accuses her of being tricked by a god

Odysseus dismisses Telemachus and sits in the firelight with Penelope

Odysseus has been bathed by Eurycleia and beautified by Athene but Penelope still refuses to recognise him

Penelope gives him the test of the bed - only after Odysseus has fallen into the trap does she acknowledge him

129
Q

how does fantasy and the supernatural enhance the epic

A

it appeals to the imagination of those listening, as they have to create the images in their heads

stirs up terror

portrays a world beyond the experience of the audience and may prompt questions

produces images of barbarian habits which perhaps unite Greeks in their civilised codes of behaviour

enhances Odysseus reputation as a hero as he takes on and survives these extreme dangers

130
Q

describe the Scylla

A

Scylla has three rows of teeth, 6 heads and as many arms

devours Odysseus’ men

barks like a puppy and can be pacified only be her mother

131
Q

describe Charybdis

A

whirlpool which shallows ships

132
Q

describe the Lotus eaters

A

The lotus eaters of whom we are told nothing apart from the effect of their diet, strike a chord with anyone who would like to escape to a world without worries

133
Q

describe the Sirens

A

voice that lures men onto the rocks

seem to just collect men, and leave their strangely mummified remains in heaps

134
Q

describe the Laestrygonians

A

from a fantasy land which knows no night time

they do show some civilised behaviour - they have pathways, a palace and farming

the local chiefs daughter can respond only by pointing (a far move from the articulate Nausicaa)

the devour the men from the 11 ships

135
Q

what is the power of fate in the odyssey

A

in the proem it was the transgression of Odysseus men that brought about their own doom

Zeus tells the assembly that men blame the gods for their trouble but in fact they bring about their own suffering

examples of mens responsibility are repeated throughout the poem

there is an underpinning sense that Zeus, or fate, is not to be interfered with

136
Q

which 3 immortals have the greatest role

A

Zeus in his supreme position as ruler of Olympus and protector of suppliants is never far away

Athene as supporter of Odysseus

Poseidon as his enemy

137
Q

what is the role of the immortals

A

their actions shape the story - Zeus agrees to the release of Odysseus leading to his return in Ithaca

Athene protects Odysseus from his release to his reunion with Penelope

Poseidon sends the trials on his journey

They reveal the heroic nature of Odysseus

They provide justice but also gleeful vengeance if they have been thwarted

They add to the fantasy and can, at whim, do what they want, providing tension and surprise

138
Q

how do the gods communicate with mortals

A

The gods communicate with the mortals via omens and dreams and sometimes in person

they come undisguised to the Phaeacians

they take on a different identity before mortals

only heroes can recognise them

139
Q

what is the role of Zeus

A

first speaker in the poem and the point he makes underpins the Odyssey - men blame the gods for their troubles but are themselves responsible for what happens

much of the Odyssey revolves around the treatment of suppliants and guests

the final slaughter of the Suitors is presented as for having disregarded the laws of Zeus

140
Q

what is the role of Athene

A

she secures Zeus’ approval for Odysseus release from Calypso and then visit Telemachus

she links Olympus, Odysseus and Ithaca

Athene helps Penelope as well as Odysseus, beautifying her or sending her to sleep as needed

141
Q

what is the role of Poseidon

A

In answer to Polyphemus’ call for revenge, Poseidon has undertaken to pursue Odysseus

in his attempt to stop him getting to Scherie he sends a storm which wrecks his boat and it is only thanks to the intervention of Ino and Athene that Odysseus lands safely

Turns the Phaeacians ship into stone as it returns from Ithaca as punishment for taking Odysseus back to Ithaca

142
Q

what is the role of Hermes

A

Hermes appears twice

He is sent by Zeus to tell Calypso to let Odysseus leave

He gives Odysseus the flower moly, which acts as an antidote to Circe’s drug

143
Q

what is the role of Apollo

A

Apollo does not appear in the Odyssey but is implicated in Odysseus’ victories

A priest of Apollo had given him the wine which makes Polyphemus drunk, and as god of Archery he is linked to the bow contest

The day of the bow challenge is the public holiday in honour of the god

144
Q

describe justice and revenge in the epic

A

Zeus says men should accept the consequences of their actions

however it seems that a god has every right to act in pure revenge against a mortal who has offended him

Odysseus goal is to punish the Suitors

Telemachus told by his father to use a sword to kill the disloyal maids hangs them instead

he slices off the nose ears and genitals of melanthius

seems to be acts of cruelty not justice

145
Q

what is xenia

A

Xenia us a reciprocal agreement between host and guest

this code of behaviour was seen as a law sacred to Zeus

146
Q

describe the process of xenia

A

the stranger arrives, and as a sacred guest, is welcomed and offered food, drink, a bath and a bed

No enquiries are made as to his identity until these needs have been satisfied

to pay back the host the guest provides a gift - could be a story

147
Q

what is the role of the family in the epic

A

families are at the heart of the Odyssey from the gods on Olympus to the households Odysseus meets on his journey to Odysseus own family in Ithaca

Family relationships influence the actions of the gods

148
Q

what is the role of relationships between men and women in the epic

A

crucial to the odyssey

trojan war fought to reclaim Helen, Menelaus’ wife

now Odysseus returning to Ithaca to reclaim his own wife Penelope

the question of womens fidelity is central to the epic

stories of women whose marriages have deviated from the ideal

the mans fidelity is not generally an issue

husbands and wives have close relationships based on affection and mutual respect

closeness of a couple reflected in their retiring at the end of the day to their bed

Odysseus’ relationship with Penelope based on affection and shared intelligence

149
Q

what is the role of the relationship between Telemachus and his parents in the epic

A

acts as a pivot to the plot - for penelope his coming of age is a cue for remarrying, for Odysseus an adult son means an ally against the Suitors

gives another perspective on Penelope as she has to readjust to a son who is beginning to assert his male authority and he is in the position of giving instructions to a woman who is much cleverer than he is

150
Q

what is the role of the relationships between fathers and sons in the epic

A

underline the cross-generational aspect of heroism and obligations

Telemachus learns form Odysseus how to be a hero

Antinous father was saved by Odysseus and so Antinous behaviour is doubly reprehensible

Amphinomus is reminded that his father had a reputation for being good and that he should try to emulate him

the miserable achilles in Hades rejoices in the news of his sons renown

when called upon by Polyphemus Poesidon avenges the wrong done to his son

Orestes avenges the murder of his father Agamemnon

151
Q

what is the role of women in the epic

A

Social order is one of the main themes of the Odyssey so women are important

Marriage is a fundamental part of that social order and requires women to be partners

sexual fidelity is essential

weaving is part of the womens role in the household - it contains them in the womens quarters of the house

the weaving provides the rich cloaks and covers which are highly valued and markers of wealth

152
Q

what is the role of slaves in the epic

A

Eumaeus and Eurycleia both show responsibility and devotion to the family and outrage at the Suitors

Pirates wars and kidnappings were ways of life

there must have been many others but only slaves who have a role in the success of the hero’s nostos are part of the heroic world

the purpose of the epic is the kleos of the hero not the life of the slave

Classical Civilisation (5 decks)

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