Questions and Answers
Who said, 'Where shall a man find sweetness to surpass his own home and his parents? In far lands he shall not, though he find a house of gold.'?
What name does Odysseus give to himself when he says, 'My name is Nohbdy: mother, father, and friends, everyone calls me Nohbdy.'?
Nohbdy
Who is referenced in the quote, 'Sweet cousin ram, why lag behind the rest in the night cave?'
Polyphemus
What does Polyphemus say about destiny in relation to his family?
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Who warns Odysseus with the words, 'Take yourself out of this island, creeping thing—no law, no wisdom, lays it on me now to help a man the blessed gods detest—out!'?
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What advice does Hermes give to Odysseus regarding Kirke's power?
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What does Circe suggest to Odysseus, as stated in the quote, 'Put up your weapon in the sheath.'?
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What does Teiresias imply when he says, 'Stand clear, put up your sword. Let me but taste of blood, I shall speak truth.'?
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Who is described as living in mourning, 'Forlorn her nights and days go by, her life used up on weeping.'?
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Who expresses a desire to hear tales of the past saying, 'Here's a long night - and endless night - before us, and no time yet for sleep.'?
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What does Agamemnon advise regarding women with the quote, 'Indulge a woman never, and never tell her all you know.'?
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What sentiment does Akhilleus express about fate in the saying, 'Better, I say, to break sod as a farm hand for some poor country man, on iron rations, than lord it over all the exhausted dead.'?
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Who acknowledges Odysseus's strength with the words, 'Are you flesh and blood, Odysseus, to endure more than a man can?'
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What do they say shall come as restitution or penalty, 'Restitution or penalty they shall pay - and pay in full - or I go down forever to light the dead men in the Underworld.'?
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Study Notes
Odysseus and His Identity
- Odysseus expresses that no place can match the comfort and sweetness of home and family, indicating his longing for Ithaca despite distant lands.
- He adopts the name "Nohbdy" to trick Polyphemus, highlighting his cunning nature and use of deception for survival.
Polyphemus' Grief and Destiny
- Polyphemus questions why his sheep lag, suggesting a personal connection and sorrow over Odysseus’ actions against him.
- He reflects on his fate, stating that if he is destined to return home, it will come at a high cost, suffering and loss.
Divine Interaction
- Aiolos, the wind god, expresses his refusal to assist Odysseus further, implying that the hero's journey is beyond the favor of the gods.
- Hermes provides guidance on how to resist the witch Circe’s magic with a special plant, emphasizing divine intervention in Odysseus' trials.
Encounters with Circe and Teiresias
- Circe offers intimacy and trust to Odysseus, suggesting a bond between the two despite her previous hostility.
- Teiresias, the blind prophet, demands offerings before revealing truths, indicating a respect for the rituals surrounding foreknowledge.
The Vulnerability of Antikleia and the Burden of Command
- Antikleia laments her sadness in Odysseus' absence, reflecting the emotional toll of prolonged separation on family members.
- Alkinoos invites Odysseus to recount his adventures, suggesting the importance of storytelling and memory in their culture.
Fatalistic Warnings
- Agamemnon warns Odysseus about trusting women too much, reflecting the dangers of vulnerability in relationships.
- Akhilleus expresses a preference for a humble life over ruling the dead, indicating a disdain for pride and unfulfilled potential in death.
Heroism and Human Condition
- Herakles questions Odysseus' endurance, emphasizing the limits of human strength against trials faced.
- The sirens' alluring song tempts sailors, symbolizing the seductive nature of danger and the risks involved in Odysseus’ journey.
The Cost of Adventure
- Odysseus recounts the horror of witnessing his men consumed by Circe, underlining the deep psychological scars of his adventures.
- Eurylokhos admires Odysseus' unyielding spirit, portraying him as more than human, showcasing the theme of extraordinary perseverance.
Finality and Justice
- Helios demands restitution for the wrongs against him, emphasizing the concept of divine retribution and the moral obligations of mortals to deities.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key quotes from Books 9-12 of the Odyssey with these flashcards. Each card includes a significant quote along with its context related to Odysseus' journey. Challenge yourself to remember these important lines and their meanings!
