15 Questions
What did Zeus agree to do to help Odysseus return home?
Send Hermes to release Odysseus from Calypso's island
Who did Athena disguise herself as when going to Ithaca?
A man
What role did the gods on Mount Olympus play in Odysseus's return?
They helped him with his journey
What does Zeus express displeasure about regarding mortals?
Blaming the gods for their miseries
What did Odysseus do after sacking Troy's sacred city?
Traveled far and wide
Who was left behind hoping for Odysseus's return while he traveled for ten years?
Penelope
What important lesson is highlighted in the text about moving forward?
'Accepting responsibility for our actions is crucial.'
What concept is highlighted in the text through Poseidon's actions towards Odysseus?
Fate
Who predicts that things will not go well for the suitors who came to Ithaca?
The seer
What does Telemachus warn the suitors about in his plea to Themis?
Angering the gods
What offering does King Alcinous propose to help Odysseus on his journey back home?
A great tripod and a cauldron
According to Odysseus, what will happen to the suitors as a result of their actions?
"Terms of destruction" will befall them
Which goddess does Telemachus call upon for help with the suitors?
"Themis"
What does the seer observe about the physical state of the suitors who came to Ithaca?
They are shrouded in darkness and tears
"Justice Is Done" is a concept mentioned in the text in reference to:
The suitors' actions and consequences
Study Notes
Odysseus's Return Home
- Zeus agrees to help Odysseus return home by sending Hermes to instruct Calypso to release Odysseus.
- Athena disguises herself as Mentes, a family friend, when going to Ithaca to help Telemachus.
The Gods' Role in Odysseus's Return
- The gods on Mount Olympus play a significant role in Odysseus's return, with Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon influencing the journey.
Zeus's Displeasure
- Zeus expresses displeasure about mortals who do not respect the gods and their power.
Odysseus's Journey
- After sacking Troy's sacred city, Odysseus travels for ten years, leaving behind his wife, Penelope, who hopes for his return.
- Odysseus faces various challenges during his journey, including encounters with the gods.
Lessons and Concepts
- The text highlights the importance of moving forward, even in the face of adversity.
- Poseidon's actions towards Odysseus illustrate the concept of fate and the power of the gods.
Predictions and Warnings
- The seer Halitherses predicts that things will not go well for the suitors who came to Ithaca.
- Telemachus warns the suitors about the wrath of the gods if they do not leave Ithaca.
Offers of Help
- King Alcinous proposes an offering to help Odysseus on his journey back home.
Consequences of the Suitors' Actions
- According to Odysseus, the suitors will face consequences for their actions, including death.
- Telemachus calls upon Athena for help in dealing with the suitors.
- The seer observes that the suitors appear weak and pitiful.
Justice and Morality
- The concept of "Justice Is Done" is mentioned in the text, highlighting the idea that wrongdoing will be punished.
Test your knowledge of the beginning lines of Homer's epic, 'The Odyssey'. Explore the journey of Odysseus as he faces battles, encounters gods, and embarks on a long journey home after the Trojan war.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free