1. The OdysseyThe Odyssey
Typed by Mrs. Scruggs’s Peer Helpers

2. EpicEpic: a long, narrative poem about the: a long, narrative poem about the
adventures of gods and heroes.adventures of gods and heroes.
Epic HeroEpic Hero: a character whose actions: a character whose actions
are noble or inspiring. They oftenare noble or inspiring. They often
overcome foes or escape fromovercome foes or escape from
difficulties.difficulties.
Epic/Heroic/Homeric SimileEpic/Heroic/Homeric Simile: a long,: a long,
elaborate comparison of unlikeelaborate comparison of unlike
subjects. They go on for severalsubjects. They go on for several
lines and usually compare thelines and usually compare the
ordinaryordinary to theto the unknownunknown..
EpithetEpithet: a word or phrase used to: a word or phrase used to
describedescribe or characterize a person oror characterize a person or
thing. Example: "Zeus, lord of thething. Example: "Zeus, lord of the
clouds."clouds."

3. In medias resIn medias res: when a story begins in the: when a story begins in the
middle of the action. All exposition is skipped.middle of the action. All exposition is skipped.
EpisodeEpisode: the division of an epic.: the division of an epic.
Oral TraditionOral Tradition: the passing of songs, stories: the passing of songs, stories
and poems from generation to generation byand poems from generation to generation by
word of mouth.word of mouth.
ArchetypeArchetype: a theme, plot, setting, character: a theme, plot, setting, character
type, or hero that recurs in many differenttype, or hero that recurs in many different
cultures. Example: the battle of good vs. evil;cultures. Example: the battle of good vs. evil;
innocence lost; misbegotten lovers, etc.innocence lost; misbegotten lovers, etc.
RhapsodesRhapsodes: they are "singers of tales." They: they are "singers of tales." They
were the ones who told the epics in the oralwere the ones who told the epics in the oral
tradition, before these poems (stories) weretradition, before these poems (stories) were
written down.written down.

4. Elements of an EpicElements of an Epic
• AA physically impressive herophysically impressive hero of national orof national or
historical importance.historical importance.
• AA vast settingvast setting involving much of the knowninvolving much of the known
physical world, and sometimes the land of thephysical world, and sometimes the land of the
dead and mythological realms as well.dead and mythological realms as well.
• Action such as aAction such as a quest or journeyquest or journey taken intaken in
search of something of value.search of something of value.
• Evidence ofEvidence of supernatural forcessupernatural forces at work (i.e.,at work (i.e.,
help of gods, goddesses, etc.)help of gods, goddesses, etc.)
• Glorification of the heroGlorification of the hero at the end.at the end.
• A rootedness in aA rootedness in a specific culturespecific culture or society.or society.

5. Background InformationBackground Information
• Homer (Greek) is credited with first composing
The Illiad (about the Trojan War.).
• The Trojan War lasted for 10 years in
Troy (Troy = modern day Turkey).
• the cause of the Trojan War = the
Greek King Menelaus had his wife,
Helen, stolen by the Trojan Prince
Paris.
• The Odyssey is about what Greek
King Odysseus (of Ithaca) experiences
trying to return home to Ithaca after 10
years at the Trojan War. The Odyssey
is the 2nd
epic attributed to Homer.
• The Illiad and The Odyssey were used
in Greek schools to teach their
culture's values.
The Illiad is the model for the epic of war.The Odyssey
is the model for the epic of long journeys.

6. The War Story BackgroundThe War Story Background
The IlliadThe Illiad is set in the 10is set in the 10thth
and final year ofand final year of
the Trojan War. Thethe Trojan War. The Greeks attack TroyGreeks attack Troy
to avenge the insult done to Kingto avenge the insult done to King
Menelaus of Sparta (Greek). Menelaus'sMenelaus of Sparta (Greek). Menelaus's
brother, Agamemnon, leads the unifiedbrother, Agamemnon, leads the unified
Greek kings in battle against Troy.Greek kings in battle against Troy.
When the Greeks finally win, they trashWhen the Greeks finally win, they trash
the city of Troy and kill all thethe city of Troy and kill all the
inhabitants except those they wereinhabitants except those they were
taking back to Greece as slaves. Thetaking back to Greece as slaves. The
readers ofreaders of The OdysseyThe Odyssey would havewould have
already known the story of Achilles andalready known the story of Achilles and
the names of deeds of other Greek warthe names of deeds of other Greek war
heroes.heroes.

7. The Wooden HorseThe Wooden Horse
• For 10 years the Greeks tried to enter Troy, with no success. King
Odysseus hatches a plan: The Greeks build a huge wooden horse that
is hollow inside. They fill the horse with Greek soldiers, roll it to the
gates of Troy, and then move their camps as if they have left and as if
the wooden horse is a peace offering. The Trojans see this, think
they've won the war, roll the horse inside the city gates, and start to get
drunk. Once the Trojans pass out drunk, the Greeks jump out of the
horse and kill the Trojans, except for the captives to be used as slaves.
• ** SO The Odyssey picks up the story after this point.
- Myths: stories that use fantasy to express ideas about life that
cannot be easily explained in realistic terms. They are religious in
that they focus on the relationship between humans and gods.
- Alter Ego: a character who serves as a reflection of a hero's best
or worst qualities. Poseidon is the alter ego of Odysseus.
• **** The OdysseyThe Odyssey isis 11,30011,300 lines long**lines long**

8. The Plot Structure of theThe Plot Structure of the OdysseyOdyssey
• Books 1-4Books 1-4: the adventures of: the adventures of Telemachus as he searchesTelemachus as he searches for hisfor his
father, King Odysseus. He (Telemachus) leaves Ithaca and seeksfather, King Odysseus. He (Telemachus) leaves Ithaca and seeks
the help of other Greek kings in searching for Odysseus.the help of other Greek kings in searching for Odysseus.
• Books 5-8Books 5-8: Adventures of: Adventures of OdysseusOdysseus as he leavesas he leaves Calypso's islandCalypso's island
(Ogygia) and arrives in Phaeacia.(Ogygia) and arrives in Phaeacia.
• FlashbackFlashback == Books 9-12:Books 9-12: Odysseus recounts his travels andOdysseus recounts his travels and
experiences to the Phaeacians and their king, Alcinous.experiences to the Phaeacians and their king, Alcinous.
• Books 13-24Books 13-24: about Odysseus landing on Ithaca, the battle with the: about Odysseus landing on Ithaca, the battle with the
suitors, and thesuitors, and the final recognitionfinal recognition and reunion of Odysseus withand reunion of Odysseus with
Telemachus, Penelope, and Odysseus's father, Laertes.Telemachus, Penelope, and Odysseus's father, Laertes.

9. ** Property of an epic =** Property of an epic = Invocation of the MuseInvocation of the Muse: the: the
poet prays for inspiration to relay his tale/ song/ poempoet prays for inspiration to relay his tale/ song/ poem
from one of thefrom one of the 99 muses. The Muses weremuses. The Muses were
mythological daughters of Zeus and were creditedmythological daughters of Zeus and were credited
with inspiring music, arts, theater, story tellingwith inspiring music, arts, theater, story telling
(anything artistic).(anything artistic).
The poem starts with Homer invokingThe poem starts with Homer invoking
the Muse. (the Muse. (Book IBook I))
Homer is asking the Muse (Calliope) to help him retellHomer is asking the Muse (Calliope) to help him retell
the story of Odysseus.the story of Odysseus.

10. BOOK 5: When We MeetBOOK 5: When We Meet
Odysseus in the TextbookOdysseus in the Textbook
Calypso's island of Ogygia (not #1 chronologically)Calypso's island of Ogygia (not #1 chronologically)::
• Odysseus has spentOdysseus has spent 77 years on the island as her boy toy.years on the island as her boy toy.
(some of the time he enjoyed).(some of the time he enjoyed).
• Line 41-47: epic simile: "A gull patrolling…up to the cave." ThisLine 41-47: epic simile: "A gull patrolling…up to the cave." This
compares how a seagull skims the water (known) to howcompares how a seagull skims the water (known) to how
Hermes, a god, skims the water (unknown).Hermes, a god, skims the water (unknown).
- Calypso's cave/island is described like a paradise.Calypso's cave/island is described like a paradise.
Meanwhile, Odysseus is miserable.Meanwhile, Odysseus is miserable.
- Calypso tells Odysseus that it'sCalypso tells Odysseus that it's herher idea to let him go.idea to let him go.
She's saving her pride; also, she truly feels forShe's saving her pride; also, she truly feels for
Odysseus.Odysseus.
- Epithet: line 101: "Son of Laertes, versatile Odysseus…"Epithet: line 101: "Son of Laertes, versatile Odysseus…"

11. BOOKS 6-8BOOKS 6-8
- line 120:line 120: epithetepithet = Odysseus refers to himself as= Odysseus refers to himself as
Laertes's son. This showsLaertes's son. This shows his humilityhis humility and howand how
his family has taken on more importance to himhis family has taken on more importance to him
than the glories of a king.than the glories of a king.
- Line 145:Line 145: he values his home and family mosthe values his home and family most..
(this(this themetheme is the driving force of the poem.).is the driving force of the poem.).
• **Odysseus and his men spent**Odysseus and his men spent 33 days with the Ciconesdays with the Cicones..
7272 menmen diedie there (Book 9)there (Book 9)
- line 179:line 179: epithetepithet: "Zeus, the lord of cloud": "Zeus, the lord of cloud"
- 3 days they're stuck in the storm3 days they're stuck in the storm (p.898)(p.898)
• 9 days drifting9 days drifting on the open sea (p.898)on the open sea (p.898)

12. BOOK 9 (This starts the flashback books)BOOK 9 (This starts the flashback books)
• The Lotus EatersThe Lotus Eaters
– on the 10on the 10thth
day theyday they
land in the Land ofland in the Land of
the Lotus Eaters (#3the Lotus Eaters (#3
on your kill map).on your kill map).
Odysseus sendsOdysseus sends 33 men to check things out. Themen to check things out. The
Lotus Eaters are friendly and start feeding the 3Lotus Eaters are friendly and start feeding the 3
men the lotus plant. ( narcotic).men the lotus plant. ( narcotic).
None dieNone die; this is an example of Odysseus acting; this is an example of Odysseus acting
like a good leader because he won't leave themlike a good leader because he won't leave them
and drags them back to the ship before they loseand drags them back to the ship before they lose
all memory of home.all memory of home.

13. The Land of the Cyclopes (Past)The Land of the Cyclopes (Past)
Odysseus’s impression of the Cyclopes before they get to the island:Odysseus’s impression of the Cyclopes before they get to the island:
• Giants, loutsGiants, louts
• Lawless = no organized system of government.Lawless = no organized system of government.
• Uncivilized = distasteful way of life to the ancient GreeksUncivilized = distasteful way of life to the ancient Greeks
• Cruel and barbaric, like cave menCruel and barbaric, like cave men
• They do not have an agrarian (agricultural) way of life = veryThey do not have an agrarian (agricultural) way of life = very
distasteful to the ancient Greeksdistasteful to the ancient Greeks

14. •Polyphemus's mother is
Thoosa, a sea nymph and
daughter of Phorkys, also a sea
god, who lives in a cave in
Ithaca.
•Odysseus and crew spend a
few days on lush island nearby
watching the Cyclopes. They
had to stop on island due to
heavy fog. They spend their time
feasting and relaxing. On the 3rd
day, they leave the lush island
and go to the Land of the
Cyclopes.

15. Day 1Day 1
Setting:Setting: cold, harsh environment. Very stony and uninviting.cold, harsh environment. Very stony and uninviting.
They see the CyclopsThey see the Cyclops PolyphemusPolyphemus, son of Poseidon., son of Poseidon.
Polyphemus is huge (prodigious). He lives alone takingPolyphemus is huge (prodigious). He lives alone taking
care of his livestock. He's very savage- looking.care of his livestock. He's very savage- looking.
Odysseus and his crew dock. He picksOdysseus and his crew dock. He picks 1212 of his bestof his best
fightingfighting menmen to go with him. He tells the rest to stay withto go with him. He tells the rest to stay with
the ships and guard everything. [an example of Odysseusthe ships and guard everything. [an example of Odysseus
acting like a good leader].acting like a good leader].
Odysseus thinks ahead and brings along good wine as aOdysseus thinks ahead and brings along good wine as a
peace offering.peace offering.
• **Odysseus is the cleverest of the ancient heroes of**Odysseus is the cleverest of the ancient heroes of
Greece because his protector is Athena, goddess ofGreece because his protector is Athena, goddess of
wisdom.wisdom.
• ** Polyphemus is an** Polyphemus is an archetypalarchetypal character representing the brutecharacter representing the brute
forces any hero must overcome.forces any hero must overcome.

16. - they go into Polyphemus's cave while he's out. They check outthey go into Polyphemus's cave while he's out. They check out
the food in the cave. The men suggest that they take the food andthe food in the cave. The men suggest that they take the food and
milk products and leave.milk products and leave. *Odysseus refuses to leave. He's*Odysseus refuses to leave. He's
curiouscurious and wants to see Polyphemus up closeand wants to see Polyphemus up close. [an example of. [an example of
Odysseus acting human, rather than heroic].Odysseus acting human, rather than heroic].
- Odysseus and his men make a fire and burn an offering to theOdysseus and his men make a fire and burn an offering to the
gods. They eat some of Polyphemus's food.gods. They eat some of Polyphemus's food.
- Polyphemus puts down his load of food. Odysseus and his menPolyphemus puts down his load of food. Odysseus and his men
hide. Polyphemus brings in his animals, then moves a hugehide. Polyphemus brings in his animals, then moves a huge
stone slab in front of the door.stone slab in front of the door. No wayNo way for Odysseus and his menfor Odysseus and his men
to get out.to get out.
• Polyphemus starts his evening chores and discovers Odysseus and his men. He asksPolyphemus starts his evening chores and discovers Odysseus and his men. He asks
O. if he's a friend or foe, beggar or merchant.O. if he's a friend or foe, beggar or merchant.
• **Immediately, he has broken the ancient tradition of courtesy to strangers.**Immediately, he has broken the ancient tradition of courtesy to strangers.
Foreshadows events to come, which are bad. Odysseus is afraid but actsForeshadows events to come, which are bad. Odysseus is afraid but acts
bravely. He talks to the Cyclops about being at Troy and traveling,bravely. He talks to the Cyclops about being at Troy and traveling, but doesn'tbut doesn't
give his namegive his name. He reminds Polyphemus about the customary treatment for. He reminds Polyphemus about the customary treatment for
guests, and plugs in a little threat to try to make Polyphemus do the rightguests, and plugs in a little threat to try to make Polyphemus do the right
thing.thing.

17. Polyphemus insults Odysseus and says Cyclops don't
fear the gods (a sacrilege). Then he tries to find out
where the ships are.
Odysseus lies to protect his men; he says they're
shipwrecked and there were no other survivors.
**Polyphemus**Polyphemus eats 2 meneats 2 men..
Odysseus doesn't try to kill Polyphemus because theyOdysseus doesn't try to kill Polyphemus because they
would be unable to escape the cave because of thewould be unable to escape the cave because of the
stone slab.stone slab.
• Odysseus and the remaining 10 men freak out and CRY.Odysseus and the remaining 10 men freak out and CRY.
Polyphemus goes to sleep and Odysseus draws his sword
and wants to stab at Polyphemus, but stops. He stops
because he realizes they will be trapped in the cave since
they are unable to move the stone slab. This is an example
of Odysseus using his intellect and thinking before he acts.

18. Day 2Day 2
- Polyphemus starts the next morning doing his chores as if nothing'sPolyphemus starts the next morning doing his chores as if nothing's
wrong.wrong. Then he eats 2 more men for breakfast.Then he eats 2 more men for breakfast.
- Line 304-305 :Line 304-305 : similesimile
- Polyphemus leaves the cave with his animals, then replaces the stonePolyphemus leaves the cave with his animals, then replaces the stone
slab behind him. Odysseus and his men are trapped, but he hatches aslab behind him. Odysseus and his men are trapped, but he hatches a
plan to get out of the cave and injure Polyphemus.plan to get out of the cave and injure Polyphemus.
- They see a green olive tree and they cut out a 6-foot portion. TheyThey see a green olive tree and they cut out a 6-foot portion. They
sharpen that section. Then put it in the fire to harden the big spike.sharpen that section. Then put it in the fire to harden the big spike.
They then hide the weapon in a pile of poop in the cave and wait forThey then hide the weapon in a pile of poop in the cave and wait for
Polyphemus to return. Odysseus and the men toss to see who willPolyphemus to return. Odysseus and the men toss to see who will
help stab Polyphemus. Odysseus is the captain and the best menhelp stab Polyphemus. Odysseus is the captain and the best men
were chosen to help him in the toss.were chosen to help him in the toss.
- 5 including Odysseus will blind Polyphemus in his sleep.5 including Odysseus will blind Polyphemus in his sleep.
- Line 332-333:Line 332-333: example of foreshadowingexample of foreshadowing..
- Polyphemus returns and closes the slab over door, and begins hisPolyphemus returns and closes the slab over door, and begins his
evening chores.evening chores.

19. - He eatsHe eats 2 more2 more men for dinner.men for dinner.
- Odysseus uses theOdysseus uses the Pramnian winePramnian wine he had broughthe had brought
to get Polyphemus drunk. He says he'll cut a dealto get Polyphemus drunk. He says he'll cut a deal
with Odysseus if he gives him more wine. Hewith Odysseus if he gives him more wine. He
agrees and gives him more. Polyphemus asks himagrees and gives him more. Polyphemus asks him
his name. Odysseus tricks him and tells him hishis name. Odysseus tricks him and tells him his
name isname is NohbdyNohbdy last. *last. * irony: Nohbdy = Nobodyirony: Nohbdy = Nobody..
- The escape: Odysseus and his men stabThe escape: Odysseus and his men stab
Polyphemus in the eyeball and pop it while he'sPolyphemus in the eyeball and pop it while he's
passed out drunk. They can't kill him or they'll bepassed out drunk. They can't kill him or they'll be
trapped in the cave and starve to death.trapped in the cave and starve to death. They tieThey tie
ramsrams together in three's and using willow fromtogether in three's and using willow from
Polyphemus's bed. Then, he ties each of his menPolyphemus's bed. Then, he ties each of his men
under theunder the middlemiddle ram (Odysseus being clever).ram (Odysseus being clever).
Odysseus waits until all other men are secure; heOdysseus waits until all other men are secure; he
then puts himself under a single, large ram. Theythen puts himself under a single, large ram. They
wait until the morning.wait until the morning. Heroic act = Odysseus isHeroic act = Odysseus is
putting himself at the greatest risk to protect hisputting himself at the greatest risk to protect his
men.men.
Day 2 Cont...Day 2 Cont...

20. - moment of tension: the men get out of themoment of tension: the men get out of the
cave safely, but Polyphemus (blind) stopscave safely, but Polyphemus (blind) stops
the one under which is Odysseus. He stopsthe one under which is Odysseus. He stops
it and talks to it :it and talks to it : IronyIrony = Polyphemus asks= Polyphemus asks
the ram where "Nohbdy" is. He doesn'tthe ram where "Nohbdy" is. He doesn't
realize that Nohbdy/Odysseus is under hisrealize that Nohbdy/Odysseus is under his
hand. (line 450-456)hand. (line 450-456)
- PersonificationPersonification: Polyphemus talks to the ram: Polyphemus talks to the ram
like it is concerned for him.like it is concerned for him.
- Odysseus and his men make it safely backOdysseus and his men make it safely back
to the ship and take Polyphemus's sheepto the ship and take Polyphemus's sheep
with them. They load up and pull out to sea;with them. They load up and pull out to sea;
distraught over lost (eaten) men.distraught over lost (eaten) men.
- Line 476: Odysseus lets his emotions takeLine 476: Odysseus lets his emotions take
over (acting human, not heroic). Whenover (acting human, not heroic). When
they're out to sea, in anger Odysseus shoutsthey're out to sea, in anger Odysseus shouts
back at Polyphemus and baits him.back at Polyphemus and baits him.
- PolyphemusPolyphemus breaks off a hilltopbreaks off a hilltop and hurls itand hurls it
at their ship. They are washed back closer toat their ship. They are washed back closer to
the shore. They row twice as far away andthe shore. They row twice as far away and
Odysseus's men beg himOdysseus's men beg him notnot to shout atto shout at
Polyphemus anymore.Polyphemus anymore.
Day 3Day 3

21. Day 3 Cont...Day 3 Cont...
- Odysseus refuses. He shouts at Polyphemus anyway and tellsOdysseus refuses. He shouts at Polyphemus anyway and tells
him his real name. Polyphemus says he knew about Odysseushim his real name. Polyphemus says he knew about Odysseus
from a prophecy.from a prophecy.
- Polyphemus calls out to his father, Poseidon, and asks him toPolyphemus calls out to his father, Poseidon, and asks him to
kill/curse Odysseus. His father hears him.kill/curse Odysseus. His father hears him.
- Line 526: Odysseus blasphemes the power of Poseidon.Line 526: Odysseus blasphemes the power of Poseidon.
- Line 529-538: *Polyphemus's curse will cause the death of all ofLine 529-538: *Polyphemus's curse will cause the death of all of
Odysseus’s men.Odysseus’s men.
- Polyphemus picks up another giant stone and throws it atPolyphemus picks up another giant stone and throws it at
Odysseus’s ship. It misses. He and his crew head back to theOdysseus’s ship. It misses. He and his crew head back to the
nearby lush island. They unload the animals and divide them up.nearby lush island. They unload the animals and divide them up.
Odysseus kills the best ram, his, and makes a sacrifice to Zeus.Odysseus kills the best ram, his, and makes a sacrifice to Zeus.
Zeus does not accept the offering because OdysseusZeus does not accept the offering because Odysseus
blasphemed Poseidon.blasphemed Poseidon.
• They sail off again.They sail off again.

22. The Wind King (Past)The Wind King (Past)
- after they leave Cyclops's island, they land onafter they leave Cyclops's island, they land on
Aeolia, the island of the wind King, Aeolus. For 1Aeolia, the island of the wind King, Aeolus. For 1
month they stay here.month they stay here.
- When they leave, Aeolus puts all the stormyWhen they leave, Aeolus puts all the stormy
winds in a bag so Odysseus and his men willwinds in a bag so Odysseus and his men will
have smooth sailing. Aeolus leaves only the goodhave smooth sailing. Aeolus leaves only the good
winds free.winds free.
• ** When they are near home, Odysseus's men open the** When they are near home, Odysseus's men open the
bag while he sleeps. They are blown back to Aeolia.bag while he sleeps. They are blown back to Aeolia.
King Aeolus refuses to help them a 2King Aeolus refuses to help them a 2ndnd
time, thinkingtime, thinking
they and their voyage and cursed. It will take themthey and their voyage and cursed. It will take them
much longer to get home now.much longer to get home now.

23. Land of the Laestrygonians (Past)Land of the Laestrygonians (Past)
**Example of Vast Setting**Example of Vast Setting
• 11 ships of the 12 enter the harbor here. The 1211 ships of the 12 enter the harbor here. The 12thth
ship (carrying Odysseus) remains furthest outship (carrying Odysseus) remains furthest out
in the sea. The Laestrygonians are giantin the sea. The Laestrygonians are giant
cannibals so, when the 11 ships enter thecannibals so, when the 11 ships enter the
harbor, thousands of these giants surround andharbor, thousands of these giants surround and
attack the ships, they eatattack the ships, they eat 588588 men. They weremen. They were
here for only 1 day. Only the 12here for only 1 day. Only the 12thth
ship, withship, with
Odysseus and his 45 crew membersOdysseus and his 45 crew members down to 45down to 45
crew members.crew members.

24. Circe’s Island of Aeaea (Past)Circe’s Island of Aeaea (Past)
- Odysseus divides his crew into 2 groups.Odysseus divides his crew into 2 groups.
Eurylochus with 22 men goes out in a search partyEurylochus with 22 men goes out in a search party
to find good, freshwater, and a safe place to rest.to find good, freshwater, and a safe place to rest.
Odysseus leads the 2Odysseus leads the 2ndnd
group.group.
- Line 539: alliterationLine 539: alliteration
- Line 543-546: epic/ homeric/ heroic simileLine 543-546: epic/ homeric/ heroic simile
- Eurylochus's group goes out to explore island.Eurylochus's group goes out to explore island.
- Eurylochus's group finds Circe's palaceEurylochus's group finds Circe's palace

25. -Circe's singing when they come up. They also-Circe's singing when they come up. They also
see her weaving on her loom, so they thinksee her weaving on her loom, so they think
she's friendly.she's friendly.
-Polites tells the group they should not fear the-Polites tells the group they should not fear the
goddess; also, he says they have no reason togoddess; also, he says they have no reason to
want to trick her or usewant to trick her or use stealthstealth
-Circe calls them all in-Circe calls them all in
-All the men-All the men exceptexcept Eurylochus go into herEurylochus go into her
palace.palace.
-Circe makes them comfortable-Circe makes them comfortable
..She seats them on lounging chairs.She seats them on lounging chairs.
..She feeds them cheese and barley.She feeds them cheese and barley.
She gives them a wine concoction.She gives them a wine concoction.

26. Cont...Cont...
Line 568: the spiked drink makes the menLine 568: the spiked drink makes the men
forget; then she turns them all intoforget; then she turns them all into
pigs/swine. However, they still have thepigs/swine. However, they still have the
minds of humans.minds of humans.
Eurylochus returns to the ship and reportsEurylochus returns to the ship and reports
what happened to Odysseus. The other 22what happened to Odysseus. The other 22
remain at Circe's hall.remain at Circe's hall.
He begs Odysseus to leave the island; but,He begs Odysseus to leave the island; but,
Odysseus wants to save his men (heroic)Odysseus wants to save his men (heroic)
* Odysseus goes to save his men, but on the* Odysseus goes to save his men, but on the
way he meets the god Hermes.way he meets the god Hermes.
Hermes gives Odysseus a special flower- aHermes gives Odysseus a special flower- a
molymoly- to protect Odysseus from Circe's- to protect Odysseus from Circe's
magic.magic.
Hermes tell Odysseus he must make theHermes tell Odysseus he must make the
goddess swear she'll play no "witch's"goddess swear she'll play no "witch's"

27. Odysseus and CirceOdysseus and Circe
Circe seats him in a silver-studded chairCirce seats him in a silver-studded chair
She gives him a drink laced with herShe gives him a drink laced with her
"unholy drug""unholy drug"
She tries to change him into swine, but herShe tries to change him into swine, but her
trick doesn't work = Odysseus istrick doesn't work = Odysseus is
protected by moly he received fromprotected by moly he received from
Hermes.Hermes.
Circe then tells him she was previouslyCirce then tells him she was previously
told of Odysseus and that she wantstold of Odysseus and that she wants
him to "play and love"him to "play and love"
OdysseusOdysseus refuses until she swears anrefuses until she swears an
oath that she will try no more tricks.oath that she will try no more tricks.
Circe makes the oath and they begin aCirce makes the oath and they begin a
romantic relationshipromantic relationship
Odysseus continues to worry about hisOdysseus continues to worry about his
men who were transformed into swinemen who were transformed into swine::
an example of him acting like a goodan example of him acting like a good
leader.leader.

28. He refuses to eat and actsHe refuses to eat and acts disconsolatedisconsolate, much to Circe's, much to Circe's
dismay.dismay.
Circe tires to cheer up Odysseus, but he refuses until CirceCirce tires to cheer up Odysseus, but he refuses until Circe
changes his men back - this is an example of his cunning.changes his men back - this is an example of his cunning.
Circe, in sympathy, frees the men and changes them backCirce, in sympathy, frees the men and changes them back
into humans.into humans.
They appear younger and more handsome.They appear younger and more handsome.
The men and Odysseus weep for joy when reunited. EvenThe men and Odysseus weep for joy when reunited. Even
Circe is touched by their emotion.Circe is touched by their emotion.
This act by Circe alters Odysseus's opinion of her. Now heThis act by Circe alters Odysseus's opinion of her. Now he
calls her "exquisite."calls her "exquisite."
Circe tells Odysseus to stow away all their gear and returnCirce tells Odysseus to stow away all their gear and return
with all his "dear companions" from the ship. Odysseuswith all his "dear companions" from the ship. Odysseus
obeys becauseobeys because he says he can'the says he can't resist her.resist her.

29. Odysseus Versus Eurylochus
- As Odysseus and his men return to the ship, they findAs Odysseus and his men return to the ship, they find
their crewmates weeping.their crewmates weeping.
– They cried because they thought the transformedThey cried because they thought the transformed
men had been lost.men had been lost.
– They cried in relief at seeing their crewmates returnThey cried in relief at seeing their crewmates return
safely.safely.
- Odysseus gives his men the orders to store theirOdysseus gives his men the orders to store their
equipment, but Eurylochus opposes this idea.equipment, but Eurylochus opposes this idea.
- Eurylochus challenges Odysseus's judgment andEurylochus challenges Odysseus's judgment and
authority. He tells the men they should doubtauthority. He tells the men they should doubt
Odysseus because of all their past troubles.Odysseus because of all their past troubles.

30. •Eurylochus reminds them of theEurylochus reminds them of the 6 men eaten by6 men eaten by
Polyphemus.Polyphemus.
•He reminds them about the men changed into pigs.He reminds them about the men changed into pigs.
Odysseus responds angrily: he wants to killOdysseus responds angrily: he wants to kill EurylochuEurylochuss::
an example of him acting humanly andan example of him acting humanly and reactingreacting with hiswith his
emotions. But, Odysseus is also acting like a strongemotions. But, Odysseus is also acting like a strong
leader in that he will not tolerate dissension.leader in that he will not tolerate dissension.
•The other men tell Odysseus not to worry.The other men tell Odysseus not to worry.
•They'll follow him toThey'll follow him to Circe's hallCirce's hall..
•They tell Odysseus to leaveThey tell Odysseus to leave EurylochusEurylochus behind. Theybehind. They
demonstrate their loyalty and respect for Odysseusdemonstrate their loyalty and respect for Odysseus
and Ithaca.and Ithaca.
•This shows how Odysseus can still be hot-headedThis shows how Odysseus can still be hot-headed
and violent = flawsand violent = flaws

31. -Eurylochus and the men
go with Odysseus back to
Circe's hall.
She wines and dines
them.
The rest helps restore
them mentally and
physically. This shows
Circe's compassion
contrasted to her cruelty
since other humans
remain as animals (but
not Odysseus's men).
**Odysseus and his men
are lulled into staying for
a year, not thinking of
home.

32. Aeaea Cont...
While the men are drunkWhile the men are drunk
one night,one night, ElpenorElpenor getsgets
too drunk, falls off thetoo drunk, falls off the
roof, androof, and diesdies. (. (1 dead1 dead).).
His men beginHis men begin to longto long
for homefor home.They remind.They remind
Odysseus that he is aOdysseus that he is a
king and hasking and has
responsibilitiesresponsibilities in Ithacain Ithaca
as a king/leader.as a king/leader.

33. **Odysseus is torn between**Odysseus is torn between
hishis duty and his enjoymentduty and his enjoyment
with Circewith Circe (he succumbs to(he succumbs to
the same type of danger asthe same type of danger as
the 3 men faced in the landthe 3 men faced in the land
of the Lotus Eaters). Thisof the Lotus Eaters). This
timetime Odysseus must beOdysseus must be
savedsaved..
Odysseus tells Circe heOdysseus tells Circe he
must leave. She respondsmust leave. She responds
by telling him what he mustby telling him what he must
do.do.

34. Again,Again, CirceCirce shows hershows her
concernconcern for Odysseus, whichfor Odysseus, which
is contrasted with heris contrasted with her
callousness toward othercallousness toward other
humans.She tells them theyhumans.She tells them they
must travel to themust travel to the underworldunderworld
(aka.(aka. The Land of the DeadThe Land of the Dead).).
She tells him he must seekShe tells him he must seek
the advice ofthe advice of TeiresiasTeiresias, the, the
blind prophet of Thebesblind prophet of Thebes
(who's dead) before he can(who's dead) before he can
find his way home.find his way home.

35. Land of the Dead- Underworld/Hades (past) Book 11
This is an example of aThis is an example of a vast settingvast setting..
The setting is darkness, endless,The setting is darkness, endless,
bottomless.bottomless.
–ThisThis foreshadowsforeshadows the grim newsthe grim news
that Odysseus will learn fromthat Odysseus will learn from
Teiresias.Teiresias.
–This foreshadows hisThis foreshadows his men's deathsmen's deaths
to come later.to come later.
PerimedesPerimedes andand EurylochuEurylochus helps help
Odysseus make the sacrifices CirceOdysseus make the sacrifices Circe
told him to so that he can bringtold him to so that he can bring
Teiresias back from the dead.Teiresias back from the dead.

36. Helping with the sacrificesHelping with the sacrifices
showsshows Eurylochus'sEurylochus's wishy-wishy-
washy character. Thiswashy character. This
shows Odysseus'sshows Odysseus's ability toability to
forgiveforgive. Now, he again. Now, he again
treats Eurylochus with greattreats Eurylochus with great
trust. They make an altar totrust. They make an altar to
Teiresias.Teiresias.
This is to convince him to help them. They see many differentThis is to convince him to help them. They see many different
kinds of dead people - including soldiers.kinds of dead people - including soldiers. This foreshadowsThis foreshadows
the death of his own menthe death of his own men. The blood is. The blood is symbolicsymbolic of life; heof life; he
regains enough "life" to prophesy for Odysseus. Odysseusregains enough "life" to prophesy for Odysseus. Odysseus
encounters the following characters from the Trojan War:encounters the following characters from the Trojan War: Ajax,Ajax,
Achilles, and HeraclesAchilles, and Heracles (aka. Hercules).(aka. Hercules).

37. More UnderworldMore Underworld
•**Epithet = "**Epithet = "the prince of Thebesthe prince of Thebes" is" is
Teiresias.Teiresias.
-Odysseus sees theOdysseus sees the ghost/ spirit ofghost/ spirit of
ElpenorElpenor, his man who fell off the roof, his man who fell off the roof
and died on Circe's island. Elpenorand died on Circe's island. Elpenor
tells him he died falling off the rooftells him he died falling off the roof
(Odysseus didn't realize it was(Odysseus didn't realize it was
partially his fault). Thispartially his fault). This foreshadowsforeshadows
how all the other men will die as ahow all the other men will die as a
result of giving into theirresult of giving into their humanhuman
desiresdesires laterlater when they come towhen they come to
Helios's island.Helios's island.
•Elpenor serves as a warningElpenor serves as a warning..

38. Teiresias tells him thatTeiresias tells him that
Poseidon will cause himPoseidon will cause him
more troubles and losses onmore troubles and losses on
their way home.their way home.
**** The prophecy: go to theThe prophecy: go to the
single straight, keep yoursingle straight, keep your
men in line, and when youmen in line, and when you
get to Thrinakia,get to Thrinakia, don'tdon't messmess
with Helios's cattlewith Helios's cattle. If you do. If you do
this, you'll get home safely.this, you'll get home safely.
Line 636: If Odysseus doesn'tLine 636: If Odysseus doesn't
do this:do this:
Destruction of ship and crew.Destruction of ship and crew.
He'll be the only survivor.He'll be the only survivor.
It'll take more years to getIt'll take more years to get
home.home.

39. Odysseus's home will beOdysseus's home will be
overrun by men eating his foodoverrun by men eating his food
andand courting his wifecourting his wife..
He'll return underHe'll return under strange sailstrange sail..
Then he'll have to travel to aThen he'll have to travel to a
strange land, make a sacrificestrange land, make a sacrifice
to every god and goddess into every god and goddess in
order of rank: then, it'll bringorder of rank: then, it'll bring
peacepeace betweenbetween OdysseusOdysseus andand
PoseidonPoseidon and Odysseus willand Odysseus will
live long and die peacefully.live long and die peacefully.
** Odysseus will see** Odysseus will see his motherhis mother
in the underworld => shein the underworld => she
committed suicide while he'scommitted suicide while he's
gone.gone.
More prophecy from the deadMore prophecy from the dead

40. Odysseus and his men leave theOdysseus and his men leave the
Underworld and goUnderworld and go back toback to
Aeaea.Aeaea. Circe warnsCirce warns him about thehim about the
dangers to come. She tellsdangers to come. She tells
Odysseus how he canOdysseus how he can pass bypass by
the Sirensthe Sirens without endangeringwithout endangering
his crew, but still satisfy hishis crew, but still satisfy his
curiosity to hear the famedcuriosity to hear the famed
creatures.creatures.
TheThe Sirens hypnotizeSirens hypnotize men withmen with
theirtheir songssongs and then eat them.and then eat them.
Circe tells Odysseus to stuff hisCirce tells Odysseus to stuff his
men's ears withmen's ears with wax;wax; have themhave them
tie Odysseus to the ship's mast sotie Odysseus to the ship's mast so
he can't be harmed; then they rowhe can't be harmed; then they row
past the Sirens.past the Sirens.

41. CharybdisCharybdis - (past) Book 12- (past) Book 12
This is a female monster whoThis is a female monster who
sucks in asucks in a storm of waterstorm of water andand
spews it out 3 times a day.spews it out 3 times a day.
Circe advised Odysseus toCirce advised Odysseus to avoidavoid
Charybdis entirely because theyCharybdis entirely because they
all could dieall could die. She tells him to go. She tells him to go
near Scylla and accept the loss ofnear Scylla and accept the loss of
6 men as opposed to all.6 men as opposed to all.
**Circe, like Teiresias, warns**Circe, like Teiresias, warns
Odysseus toOdysseus to not eat Helios'snot eat Helios's
cattlecattle..
Odysseus does not tell his menOdysseus does not tell his men
that some of them will die becausethat some of them will die because
they would not have wanted tothey would not have wanted to
leave Circe's island-- then,leave Circe's island-- then,
Odysseus would never get home.Odysseus would never get home.
Line 805-808: Epic/ Homeric simileLine 805-808: Epic/ Homeric simile
Line 818:Line 818: Scylla eatsScylla eats 6 men6 men
Line 822-828: Epic/ Homeric simileLine 822-828: Epic/ Homeric simile

42. A very uglyA very ugly
monster, she hasmonster, she has
12 legs12 legs andand 66
headsheads.. ScyllaScylla eatseats 11
man for eachman for each headhead
as they sail past.as they sail past.
Odysseus was toldOdysseus was told
about this by Circe.about this by Circe.
He knows beforeHe knows before
they get here thatthey get here that 66
men will die.men will die.

43. Odysseus tries to convince his crew toOdysseus tries to convince his crew to
bypass Thrinakia altogether.bypass Thrinakia altogether. They disobeyThey disobey
him and land anyway. He makes themhim and land anyway. He makes them
promise not to eat Helios's cattle.promise not to eat Helios's cattle.
**A storm comes up and they're forced to**A storm comes up and they're forced to
land on Thrinakia.land on Thrinakia.
They are there forThey are there for 1 month1 month without eatingwithout eating
the cattle.They run out of food.the cattle.They run out of food.
Odysseus wanders off alone to pray for help; he falls asleep.Odysseus wanders off alone to pray for help; he falls asleep.
While he's gone,While he's gone, EurylochusEurylochus rallies the crew against Odysseus.rallies the crew against Odysseus.
Eurylochus convinces them it's better to dies having made the godsEurylochus convinces them it's better to dies having made the gods
angry than to starve to death.angry than to starve to death.
**Odysseus wakes up and realizes what happened. Meanwhile,**Odysseus wakes up and realizes what happened. Meanwhile,
Lampetia (Helios's daughter) runs to tell her father what happened.Lampetia (Helios's daughter) runs to tell her father what happened.
Helios’s threat to ZeusHelios’s threat to Zeus: either Zeus punish Odysseus's men, or Helios: either Zeus punish Odysseus's men, or Helios
(sun) will never shine on Earth again.(sun) will never shine on Earth again.
****Zeus's responseZeus's response: he hits the ship with a thunder bolt.: he hits the ship with a thunder bolt. All die butAll die but
Odysseus.Odysseus.

46. The past and present meetThe past and present meet
here in the story ashere in the story as KingKing
Alcinous of theAlcinous of the
Phaeacians providesPhaeacians provides
Odysseus with a shipOdysseus with a ship toto
return home to Ithaca. [It'sreturn home to Ithaca. [It's
aa magically fastmagically fast ship].ship].
Odysseus lands on IthacaOdysseus lands on Ithaca
but is met by Athena, whobut is met by Athena, who
transforms him into atransforms him into a
beggarbeggar to protect histo protect his
Identity from the suitors.Identity from the suitors.
Most of his loyal army wasMost of his loyal army was
lost or killed either at thelost or killed either at the
Trojan War or on theTrojan War or on the
journey home.journey home.
****Book 13 is whenBook 13 is when
Odysseus leaves PhaeaciaOdysseus leaves Phaeacia
in the Phaeacian ship andin the Phaeacian ship and
arrives in Ithacaarrives in Ithaca..

47. **Book 14 - in his beggar's**Book 14 - in his beggar's
disguise, Odysseus makes hisdisguise, Odysseus makes his
way toway to Eumaeus'sEumaeus's hut (hishut (his
trusty swineherdtrusty swineherd))
it's important to know thatit's important to know that
Eumaeus is representative ofEumaeus is representative of
true faithfulnesstrue faithfulness and is theand is the firstfirst
knownknown introduction of aintroduction of a
servant as important character.servant as important character.
This shows Homer's originality.This shows Homer's originality.
Odysseus, still in disguise,Odysseus, still in disguise,
doesn't revealdoesn't reveal himself tohimself to
Eumaeus.Eumaeus. EumaeusEumaeus follows thefollows the
Greek custom and welcomesGreek custom and welcomes
the "stranger".the "stranger".

48. Book 15Book 15
Athena appears to Telemachus, whoAthena appears to Telemachus, who
has gone to Pylos and Sparta to lookhas gone to Pylos and Sparta to look
for news of Odysseus. Telemachusfor news of Odysseus. Telemachus
stays gone 1 year. Odysseus returnsstays gone 1 year. Odysseus returns
to Ithaca before his son. Athenato Ithaca before his son. Athena
appear to Telemachus and tells himappear to Telemachus and tells him
to go home. When Telemachus does,to go home. When Telemachus does,
the palace is overrun by the suitors.the palace is overrun by the suitors.
The suitors are spendingThe suitors are spending
Telemachus's inheritance andTelemachus's inheritance and
demanding that Penelope pick a newdemanding that Penelope pick a new
husband. Athena warns Telemachushusband. Athena warns Telemachus
that thethat the suitors plan to ambush himsuitors plan to ambush him
when he arrives. Telemachuswhen he arrives. Telemachus returnsreturns
to Ithaca, but first goes to Eumaeus'sto Ithaca, but first goes to Eumaeus's
hut.hut.

49. **We are now reaching one**We are now reaching one
of the most climacticof the most climactic
moments of this epic. Atmoments of this epic. At
this point, Odysseus hasthis point, Odysseus has
not seen Telemachus fornot seen Telemachus for
20 years. The dogs aren't20 years. The dogs aren't
mean to Telemachusmean to Telemachus
because he's spent most ofbecause he's spent most of
his life around Eumaeus. Athis life around Eumaeus. At
this point, Odysseusthis point, Odysseus
doesn't realize it'sdoesn't realize it's
Telemachus approaching.Telemachus approaching.

50. -Line 945-955 = Eumaeus's reaction; Odysseus does nothing
because he's waiting for the sign from Athena (epic/Homeric/heroic
simile)
-Line 956: epithet
-Line 966: "Uncle" is Telemachus's term for Eumaeus. Telemachus
also upholds the Greek custom of xenos (xenia). Telemachus sends
Eumaeus to the palace to tell Penelope he's home and alive. Athena
is now ready to reunite Odysseus and Telemachus.
-Athena turns to Odysseus back into a younger vibrant man.
**symbolism = white is purity/ cleansing
-Line 100: epithet
-Line 1008-1009: Odysseus cries and acts like a father.
-Line 1021: Odysseus still expects Telemachus to act like a prince
and fear no one.
-Line 1031-33: epic simile: cries of men to cries of taloned hawk
(from Book 16)

51. Book 17 - The Beggar and Argos
the Dog
-Telemachus goes back to the palace
to his mom, Penelope, and Eurycleia,
his nurse. A fortuneteller has told
Penelope that Odysseus is alive and
in Ithaca.
-Odysseus goes back into disguise as
the beggar. He and Eumaeus return
to the palace. He is only recognized
by his dog, Argos. Eumaeus doesn't
realize he's talking to Odysseus.
-As soon as Argos recognizes
Odysseus, Argos finally dies =
symbolizes loyalty.
-Odysseus is now in his own hall in
disguise as the beggar. Penelope
welcomes "the beggar", who says he
has news of Odysseus.

52. Book 18- Penelope appears amongBook 18- Penelope appears among
the suitors and gets ontothe suitors and gets onto
Telemachus for allowing the evilTelemachus for allowing the evil
suitors tosuitors to mistreat the beggarmistreat the beggar..
Book 19- the suitors leave for theBook 19- the suitors leave for the
night and Odysseus andnight and Odysseus and
Telemachus hatch their plan.Telemachus hatch their plan.
-Odysseus isOdysseus is revealedrevealed toto
EurycleiaEurycleia when shewhen she
washes his feet and sees awashes his feet and sees a
scar.scar. Athena casts a spellAthena casts a spell
over Penelopeover Penelope so sheso she
doesn't know what's goingdoesn't know what's going
on. Penelope decides aon. Penelope decides a
test for the suitors for thetest for the suitors for the
next day.next day.

53. Book 20- Odysseus wants to destroy the suitors. Athena
tells Odysseus they will die.
Book 21- The Test of the Great Bow
-Penelope makes the test so that the suitors must
successfully string Odysseus's bow- which only he can
do. Penelope cries when she holds the bow because she
feels like she's giving up on Odysseus's return
-Odysseus reveals himself to Philoteus and Eumaeus,
who swear to bear arms with him.
-Plan = Line 1163-73: gives Philoetus and Eumaeus
orders.
-Line 1184 = example of irony because the taunting
suitors don't realize they're joking about what will really
happen.

54. -Line 1185 - epithet
-Line 1185-1191: epic/Homeric/heroic simile.
-Line 1193: metaphor = sting can't sound like a bird
-Line 1203 = simile
-Odysseus wins the bow contest
-Line 1217: epithet applies to Telemachus
**The climax is here in Book 22. He must kill or get rid of
more than 100 young men.
-Antinous = the most sleazy suitor. Line 1219 = epithet
-Line 1222 = metaphor = rain of arrows
-He kills Antinous first.
-Line 1237-38= simile
-Line 1238 = "river of blood" -- Hyperbole/ metaphor
-The suitors think Odysseus got a lucky shot to kill Antinous
-Line 1252- personification "grip of death"
-Line 1253 - color yellow symbolizes cowardice.
-Eurymachus pleads with Odysseus to spare their lives since
the ringleader, Antinous, is dead. In exchange, he offers
tithes and gifts as restitution. (repayment).
-Now Odysseus, Telemachus, Eumaeus and Philoeteous
begin killing the remainder of the suitors.
-Another intervention of the gods: Athena's shield takes form
in the hall.
-Line 1290-1303: epic simile

55. Book 23- Odysseus and Penelope
-Odysseus orders the maids who betrayed them (slept w/ suitors) to
clean up the blood, the hall, and remove the dead bodies. Then
Telemachus hangs them in the courtyard.
-Eumaeus tells Penelope that Odysseus is back. Penelope suspects a
trick, so she decides to test the "suitor."

56. -Line 1329: epithet
-Line 1335: epithet
-GLORIFICATION OF THE HERO
-Odysseus is bathed, and then Athena comes and makes him appear handsome
and kingly again. She actually makes Odysseus look bigger and better than ever.
-Line 1342-1346: Homeric/heroic/epic simile.
-Penelope tests Odysseus by telling Eurycleia to make up a separate bed for him,
as if the great tree bed had been moved.
-Odysseus responds in anger because he built that room and palace around an
unmovable olive tree. This proves to Penelope that Odysseus really is her
husband.
Line 1410-1413: epic simile
**Book 24: The families of the suitors try to challenge Odysseus, but he defeats
them.