Key Characters and Themes in The Odyssey

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'parry' mean?

  • To attract attention through dialogue.
  • To deflect an attack with a sword. (correct)
  • To create harmony between parties.
  • To summarize a written piece.

What is the purpose of using subordinating conjunctions in sentence combination?

  • To emphasize the main verb in the sentence.
  • To create simpler sentences without clauses.
  • To connect two clauses and create complex sentences. (correct)
  • To enhance the clarity of the thesis statement.

Which of the following best describes a 'comma sandwich' structure?

  • A structure that uses only one word.
  • A structure that ends with a question.
  • A conversation between characters.
  • A sentence with descriptive information framed by commas. (correct)

What is an example of a 'three-word sentence'?

<p>'The cyclops screamed.' (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized in a 'more, more, more sentence'?

<p>The increasing intensity or quantity of an idea. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is the protagonist known for his cunning and bravery in The Odyssey?

<p>Odysseus (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character is Penelope's husband and the focus of her loyalty?

<p>Odysseus (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What central theme involves Odysseus seeking vengeance against the suitors?

<p>Revenge (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term refers to the ancient Greek concept of hospitality?

<p>Xenia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which plot device is characterized by an unexpected power saving a seemingly hopeless situation?

<p>Deus Ex Machina (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the introduction of characters and setting in a narrative?

<p>Exposition (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character is described as arrogant and disrespectful among the suitors?

<p>Antinous (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In The Odyssey, what is the climax defined as?

<p>Turning point of the story (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Subordinating Conjunction

A linking word that combines two clauses, showing the relationship between them.

Sentence Beginning with an Adverb

A sentence that starts with an adverb, adding detail about the action.

3-Word Sentence

A sentence consisting of three words that conveys a complete thought.

Comma Sandwich

A sentence structure that includes a subject, additional descriptive information set off by commas, and a main verb.

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More, More, More Sentence

A sentence that builds on an idea using repetition to emphasize the increasing intensity or quantity.

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Xenia

The ancient Greek concept of hospitality and respect for guests, emphasizing the duty to care for strangers and travelers.

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In Media Res

A literary device where the story starts in the middle of the action, often with a flashback to reveal the preceding events.

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Deus Ex Machina

A plot device where a sudden, unexpected power or event intervenes to resolve a seemingly hopeless situation.

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Epithet

A descriptive phrase that expresses a characteristic quality of a character, often recurring throughout the story.

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Metaphor

A figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as," highlighting a shared quality.

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Tenor

The person, object, or subject being referred to in a metaphor.

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Vehicle

The part of the metaphor that makes the comparison; the image used to describe the tenor.

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Ground

The shared quality or link between the tenor and the vehicle; the reason for the comparison.

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Study Notes

Key Characters in The Odyssey

  • Odysseus: The main character, known for intelligence and bravery.
  • Telemachus: Odysseus' son, aiding him in reclaiming their home.
  • Penelope: Odysseus' wife, demonstrating unwavering loyalty.
  • Antinous: A prominent suitor, arrogant and disrespectful.
  • Eurymachus: Another suitor, attempting negotiation for survival.
  • Amphinomus: A suitor expressing hesitation about the situation.

Key Themes in The Odyssey

  • Revenge: Odysseus seeks retribution against the disrespectful suitors.
  • Justice: The suitors' actions are presented as deserving of retribution.
  • Xenia (Guest Hospitality): The suitors violate this important Greek custom.

Important Terms in The Odyssey

  • Xenia: Greek concept of hospitality and respect for guests. Represents a societal value.
  • In Media Res: Narrative starts in the middle of the action.
  • Deus Ex Machina: A sudden plot device resolving a difficult situation.
  • Epithet: A descriptive phrase highlighting a character trait. (e.g., "wily Odysseus").
  • Metaphor: A figure of speech comparing unlike things. Includes tenor (subject), vehicle (comparison), and ground (connection).

Structure of a Narrative (Aristotle's Definition)

  • Exposition: Introduction of characters and setting.
  • Rising Action: Development of conflict and escalating tension.
  • Climax: Turning point in the story.
  • Falling Action: Events leading to the resolution.
  • Resolution: Conclusion of the story.

Epic Elements (Aristotle's Definition)

  • Plot: The sequence of events.
  • Character: The individuals involved.
  • Thought: The message and ideas explored.
  • Diction: The language used.
  • Song: Poetic elements and storytelling style.
  • Spectacle: Visual elements and drama.

Key Quotations from The Odyssey

  • Odysseus on Revenge: "You'll all die... It's nothing less than you deserve." (Expresses Odysseus' determination).
  • Eurymachus' Plea: "Spare us, Odysseus, you've killed the worst of us." (Suitor's plea for mercy).

Interesting Vocabulary from The Odyssey

  • Diminutive: Small.
  • Plummeting: Falling rapidly.
  • Clamour: Loud noise.
  • Parry: To deflect a blow or attack.
  • Concord: Peace or harmony.

Writing Strategies

  • Thesis Statement: Clear statement answering a question or making a claim.
  • Combining Sentences: Use subordinating conjunctions to build complex sentences.
  • Character Analysis: Support claims about characters with quotes and examples.
  • Subordinating Conjunctions: Words connecting clauses, e.g., because, although.

Creative Writing Tips

  • Element Order: Present story elements in a logical sequence for impact.
  • Sentence Variety: Mix sentences for better reader engagement.
  • 3-Word Sentence: Concise sentence expressing a complete thought.
  • Comma Sandwich: A phrase with descriptive information within commas.
  • Sentence Beginning with an Adverb: Detail an action with an adverbial opening.
  • More, More, More Sentence: Builds intensity with repetition.
  • Sentence Including Speech: Incorporate dialogue to convey character.

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