Questions and Answers
What is the name of Odysseus' son?
Telemachus
At the beginning of the Odyssey, how long has Odysseus been away from home?
20 years
Whom does Telemachus meet on his journey?
Who rescues Odysseus from the storm of Poseidon?
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What is the name of the king of the Phaeacians?
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Who refuses to speak to Odysseus in the underworld?
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Who is punished in the underworld by being required to roll a rock uphill forever?
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How many of Odysseus' crew make it home with him?
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Which god or goddess appears to Odysseus when he wakes up on the beach at Ithaca?
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Who is Eumaios?
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What is the name of Odysseus' dog?
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How does Eurykleia recognize Odysseus?
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What animals appear in Penelope's dream?
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Who aside from Odysseus himself comes closest to stringing the bow?
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What does Eurykleia the nurse do when she sees the dead suitors?
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Who is the worst of the suitors and the first to die?
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What piece of furniture does Penelope want moved?
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What is the name of Odysseus' father?
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Study Notes
Key Characters and Relationships
- Odysseus’ son is named Telemachus, who embarks on a journey during the narrative.
- Odysseus has been away from home for a total of 20 years: 10 years in the Trojan War and 10 years returning to Ithaca.
- The Phaeacian king is Alcinous, who plays a significant role in Odysseus’ journey.
Important Encounters and Events
- Telemachus meets notable figures including Helen, Nestor, and Menelaus on his journey, seeking information about his father.
- Nausicaa rescues Odysseus from a storm created by Poseidon, aiding his return.
- In the underworld, Ajax refuses to speak to Odysseus despite the latter's attempts to communicate.
Trials and Challenges
- No members of Odysseus’ crew survive to return home with him after their adventures.
- Sisyphus is punished in the underworld by rolling a rock uphill for eternity, illustrating themes of futility and punishment.
Recognition and Deception
- Athena assists Odysseus upon his awakening on the shores of Ithaca, guiding him as he plans his return.
- Eumaios, a loyal swineherd, represents loyalty amidst the chaos in Odysseus’ absence.
- Eurykleia recognizes Odysseus by a scar on his thigh/foot, highlighting the theme of identity.
Key Symbols and Future Events
- In Penelope's dream, twenty geese and an eagle symbolize betrayal and impending action, foreshadowing events in Ithaca.
- Telemachus comes closest to stringing Odysseus’ bow, signifying his growth and potential to take on his father's legacy.
- Penelope desires her bed moved, a significant symbol of her marital bond, which is built around a tree, emphasizing endurance.
Climax and Resolution
- Eurykleia's triumphant cry upon seeing the dead suitors signals the culmination of Odysseus’ revenge.
- Aninoos, identified as the worst suitor, is the first to die, representing justice for the wrongs done to Odysseus’ household.
- Odysseus' father is named Laertes, connecting themes of family and ancestral ties throughout the epic.
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Description
Test your knowledge on 'The Odyssey' with these flashcards. This quiz covers key characters, events, and facts from the epic poem. Perfect for students seeking to reinforce their understanding of Homer's classic work.
