Ulysses Chapter 7: Circe Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does Ulysses vow to do at the beginning of the chapter?

He was determined to bring the men home

What is the first thing that Ulysses wanted to find out when reaching land, and why is finding out important?

He wanted to find out whether he was on an island or the spur of a mainland.

What made Ulysses uneasy about the castle?

He was hearing strange howling sounds.

After eating, what does Ulysses decide the men should do?

He wanted to explore the island thoroughly and try to determine whether it was a friendly place or not. Signup and view all the answers

What does Ulysses assume about his luck, and do you think anything has changed?

He assumes that his luck has changed, perhaps the god that was playing with them so spitefully has found other amusements. Signup and view all the answers

When the men approach the castle, what animals do they encounter, and what is interesting about the animals' appearance?

They encounter a pack of wolves and lions that seemed very friendly. Signup and view all the answers

What do we learn about Circe when we first meet her?

She is the granddaughter of Helios, a sun god. Signup and view all the answers

What is the sweetest spell Circe weaves?

She weaves a spell called hospitality. Signup and view all the answers

What do the men realize about themselves as they eat, and what happens to them in the end?

The men start to notice that they were eating like pigs and start to actually turn into pigs. Signup and view all the answers

Once Ulysses hears Eurylochus' story, what does he decide?

He had sworn an oath that he will never leave another man behind if there is any way he can prevent it. Signup and view all the answers

Who does Ulysses encounter in the forest?

Hermes. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hermes tell us about Ulysses' situation with Poseidon, and what does he tell Ulysses about Circe?

Polyphemus is Poseidon's son and he told Poseidon to do dreadful things to Ulysses. He tells Ulysses that Circe is very dangerous. Signup and view all the answers

How does Hermes help Ulysses?

He gave Ulysses a flower called moly. Signup and view all the answers

How does Circe justify the random animals that get along in her household?

The animals' eyes were so big and sad and clever. They looked like human eyes. Signup and view all the answers

What does Ulysses make Circe promise before they love each other?

Ulysses makes Circe promise that she will not harm, wound, or suck his blood like witches when they are together. Signup and view all the answers

Which sailor had doubts about the situation, and what was his reasoning?

Eurylochus had doubts because he didn't know that Ulysses was still under enchantment. Signup and view all the answers

What do we learn about Circe and her marriage history?

We learn that she dated a lot of human guys. Signup and view all the answers

Circe says that she would transform Ulysses into a ___

fox Signup and view all the answers

What does Ulysses need to do to achieve immortality?

He will share Circe's immortality of sport and idleness and nights of love. Signup and view all the answers

After Ulysses makes his decision, Circe tells him he needs to go where and do what?

Land of the dead and he needs to consult certain ghosts. Signup and view all the answers

What is the last thing the men see when they leave the island?

They see that the lions and wolves had followed them down to the beach. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ulysses Chapter 7: Circe Study Notes

Ulysses vows to bring his men home, showcasing his determination and leadership.
Upon reaching land, Ulysses seeks to determine whether they are on an island or part of the mainland, which is crucial for navigation and safety.
Strange howling sounds from the castle create unease for Ulysses and his men.
Ulysses decides that the men should thoroughly explore the island to assess if it is a friendly location.
He believes his luck has changed, speculating the gods have shifted their focus and no longer pursue them with malice.
The men encounter a pack of friendly wolves and lions, contradicting their expectations of danger.
Circe, revealed to be Helios' granddaughter, embodies both beauty and danger throughout the narrative.
Circe weaves a spell of hospitality, luring the men into a false sense of security.
The men realize they are eating like pigs and ultimately transform into pigs, illustrating the consequences of indulgence.
After hearing Eurylochus's account of danger, Ulysses insists on not abandoning any man, reaffirming his commitment to his crew.
Ulysses meets Hermes in the forest, representing divine intervention and guidance.
Hermes reveals the curse Poseidon placed on Ulysses due to his actions with Polyphemus and warns of Circe's treachery.
Hermes gives Ulysses moly, a magical flower that protects him against Circe's spells.
Circe's animals possess sad, clever eyes resembling humans, symbolizing transformation and lost humanity.
Before engaging with Circe, Ulysses demands she won't harm him, showcasing his self-preservation instinct.
Eurylochus is skeptical of the situation, fearing Ulysses may still be enchanted, reflecting the theme of distrust.
Circe admits to a history of relationships with many human men, hinting at her complex character.
Circe jokingly says she would transform Ulysses into a fox, emphasizing her power over him.
To gain immortality, Ulysses must partake in Circe’s world of leisure and love, introducing the allure of eternal pleasure.
Circe instructs Ulysses to seek the land of the dead to consult important spirits, suggesting a journey for wisdom and guidance.
As they depart the island, the sight of wolves and lions following them symbolizes the lingering effects of Circe's enchantment.

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Test your knowledge of Chapter 7 of Ulysses, where Ulysses encounters Circe. These flashcards cover key concepts and themes, allowing you to deepen your understanding of the text. Perfect for students looking to review important points and characters.