The Odyssey Part II: The Homecoming Study Guide- Name:______
Book Sixteen & Seventeen- Father and SonThe Beggar at the Manor 1) Describe the following characters: Athena-
Eumaeu-
Argos-
Answer the following questions:
2) In 1-2 sentences describe Odysseus’ appearance when he arrives in Ithaca. Why does he appear this way?
3)How do Eumaeus and Telemachus react upon meeting “the old beggar”
4)When Odysseus’ appearance is suddenly changed, what is Telemachus’ reaction? Why?
5) In lines 99-107, what character trait is emphasized in both Telemachus and Odysseus? Why is this unusual?
6) At the end of Book 16, which characters are aware of the Old Beggar’s identity?
7) At the end of Argos’ life, is he happy or sad? Explain
Describe the following characters found in Books 21-23 Antinous –
Eurymachus-
Philoetius-
Amphinomus-
Eurynome-
Eurycleia-
Book Twenty- One- The Test of the Bow Answer the following questions
9) What does Penelope propose to the suitors? What is the prize?
10) Why does Penelope cry when she gets the bow from the storage closet?
11) Identify and explain the metaphor in lines 19-23. (2-3 sentences)
12) Why is Penelope willing to have the contest?
13)To whom does Odysseus reveal his identity? Why was this revelation necessary?
14) In 3-4 sentences, explain how Penelope’s “contest of the bow” ends and who is involved.
15) Describe, in three parts the specific reactions to the “old beggar” stringing the bow and shooting the arrow. A) The suitors in the room:
B) The gods:
C) Penelope
Book Twenty-Two Death in the Great Hall Answer the following questions 16)Who does Odysseus ask for help?
17) Who is the 1st suitor Odysseus kills?
18) How do the suitors respond to Odysseus’ 1st killing?
19) What are the reason Odysseus gives for killing the suitors?
20) What deal does Eurymachus try to make with Odyessus?
21) What mortals help Odysseus and Telemachus?
22) What goddess shows up to help?
Book Twenty-Three- The Trunk of the Olive Tree Answer the following questions 23) How does Penelope test her husband?
24)What was built around the bed? What would someone have to do in order to move the bed?
25) How do Odysseus and Penelope act toward one another by the end of book 23?
26) How do the townspeople react to the killing of the suitors?
27) Evaluate EPIC characteristics- Answer the following sentences using complete sentences One thing that all epics have in common is tremendous scale. Everything about an epic is big: an extended and complicated plot, a long journey over great distances, powerful gods and horrible monsters, and major universal themes. Identify one aspect each of epic plot, setting, character and theme in the Odyssey. Which do you consider the most impressive? Give reason for your choice.