The Odyssey Hero's Journey Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the Ordinary World in the context of Odysseus' journey?

King Odysseus is at home, in Ithaca, with his wife, Penelope, and newborn son, Telemachus.

What marks the Call to Adventure for Odysseus?

Odysseus is called to fight in the Trojan War.

What is the reason Odysseus initially refuses the Call to Adventure?

He does not want to leave his son, Telemachus, to go to battle.

Who serves as Odysseus' Mentor during his journey?

Athena, the goddess of wisdom. Signup and view all the answers

What signifies Odysseus' commitment to the Journey?

Crossing the Threshold. Signup and view all the answers

What challenges does Odysseus face on the Road of Trials?

Lotus Eaters, Cannibals, Cyclops, Circe, The Sirens, Scylla and Charybdis, Cattle of Helios. Signup and view all the answers

What must Odysseus do in the Approach stage of his journey?

Travel to the underworld. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes the Ordeal in Odysseus' journey?

Traveling to the Land of the Dead and meeting the blind prophet. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Reward that Odysseus earns after his trials?

He gets a ship and goes home to Ithaca. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Road Back signify for Odysseus?

He must recommit to completing the Journey and return to the Ordinary World. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atonement involve for Odysseus?

Completing Penelope's challenge and slaying all the suitors. Signup and view all the answers

What happens in the Return stage of Odysseus' journey?

Odysseus rules over Ithaca once again as peace prevails. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hero's Journey in The Odyssey

Ordinary World: Odysseus starts in Ithaca with his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, establishing familiarity and relatability for the audience.
Call to Adventure: His journey begins when summoned to fight in the Trojan War, disrupting his peaceful life in Ithaca.
Refusal of the Call: Initially hesitant, Odysseus struggles with leaving his family, showcasing his paternal instincts and fears.
Mentor/Helper: Throughout the adventure, gods intervene. Athena supports Odysseus, providing guidance and saving him, while Poseidon poses constant challenges due to Odysseus' previous prideful actions.
Crossing the Threshold: The journey shifts when divine anger results in a storm that disrupts the Greek fleet and forces Odysseus into the unknown.
Road of Trials: Encountering various mythical beings and challenges, such as the Lotus Eaters, Cyclops, and Sirens, tests his resolve and adaptability.
Approach: Odysseus prepares to face his greatest challenge; Circe advises him to travel to the underworld for guidance.
Ordeal: The hero faces a life-threatening crisis in the Land of the Dead, where he seeks wisdom from a blind prophet.
Reward: After overcoming death and trials, he gains a ship, enabling his return to Ithaca.
Road Back: Upon returning, Odysseus finds suitors vying for Penelope’s affections and plotting against Telemachus, necessitating decisive action.
Atonement: The hero defeats the suitors and proves his worthiness by completing Penelope’s challenge, reclaiming his family and rightful place.
Return: Odysseus reestablishes his rule over Ithaca, restoring peace and happiness to his family and homeland, embodying growth and transformation from his journey.

Description

Explore the key elements of the Hero's Journey through flashcards based on Homer's 'The Odyssey'. Each card highlights important phases such as the Ordinary World and the Call to Adventure, providing a clear understanding of Odysseus's journey. Perfect for students and literature enthusiasts looking to enhance their knowledge of this epic tale.