ClassActivity Literature MarioRivera 62221412
ClassActivity Literature MarioRivera 62221412
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Odysseus is an epic hero, as such, he must have qualities that were admired by the
ancient Greeks. What were these qualities?
A/ Being an epic hero, Odysseus had attributes that the ancient Greeks admired. These qualities
include the following:
Cunning and intelligence are key to success. The Greeks' triumph in the Trojan War was due to
the cleverness of Odysseus, who came up with the idea of the Trojan Horse. He shows his
intelligence by escaping from Polyphemus (the Cyclops) by tricking him with the name
"Nobody."
There is courage. During his perilous journey, Odysseus demonstrates courage, facing dangers
like Scylla and Charybdis and standing against suitors upon his return to Ithaca.
Loyalty and commitment. Odysseus is determined to return home to Ithaca and his wife,
Penelope, despite facing temptations.
Leadership. Leadership. He guides his men through various challenges, guiding them with
strategic decisions (though sometimes met with resistance)
2. An epic poem combines realistic details with the fantastic. Which events in the poem
seem to be realistic, and which are fantastic?
A/ A captivating epic is created by combining realistic and fantastic elements.
Realistic events are happening.
The story of Odysseus journey across the Mediterranean involves real human emotions and
struggles, such as homesickness, loyalty, and survival.
The interactions between Odysseus and his family, such as his reunion with Penelope,
exemplify believable human connections.
Fantastic events are happening.
The encounters with mythical creatures like Polyphemus (Cyclops), Scylla, Charybdis, and
the Sirens are purely fantastical.
The intervention of gods and goddesses, such as Athena helping Odysseus or Poseidon
punishing him, demonstrate the divine influence in Greek mythology.
The poem also uses magical elements, such as Circe transforming men into animals and
Hermes giving Odysseus a protective herb.
3. Mention some of the themes you can identify in the Odyssey and comment about at
least two, provide examples from the text.
A/ Key themes in the Odyssey include loyalty, perseverance, hospitality, identity, and vengeance.
Two examples are here.
Loyalty.
Penelope, who waits for Odysseus for 20 years, is an example of loyalty. She demonstrated
her commitment by weaving and unraveling the shroud.
Even though tempted by immortality with Calypso or comfort with Circe, Odysseus remains
committed to his desire to return home.
Hospitality in Xenia.
The ancient Greek concept of hospitality plays a central role in the ancient Greek concept.
Odysseus encounters both good and bad hospitality. The Phaeacians help him return to Ithaca
while Polyphemus violates xenia by attacking his guests.
This theme highlights the importance of mutual respect and kindness in Greek culture.