Classical Literature - Odyssey IX - XII

Question 1

Who is Odysseus?

Answer 1

Odysseus, son of Laertes, known for his many wiles and cunning.

Question 2

What happens when Odysseus and his men raid the Cicones?

Answer 2

They plunder the city but are attacked by the Cicones, losing many men.

Question 3

What is the effect of the lotus fruit on Odysseus’ men?

Answer 3

It causes them to forget their homes and desire only to stay among the Lotus-Eaters.

Question 4

How does Odysseus escape from Polyphemus?

Answer 4

He blinds him after introducing himself as ‘Nobody’ and tricks him into calling for help.

Question 5

What strategy does Odysseus use to escape the cave of Polyphemus?

Answer 5

He hides his men under the sheep as they leave the cave.

Question 6

What curse does Polyphemus place on Odysseus after he reveals his identity?

Answer 6

He asks Poseidon to ensure Odysseus never returns home or to do so with great suffering.

Question 7

What gift does Aeolus give to Odysseus?

Answer 7

A bag containing all winds except the favorable west wind.

Question 8

What happens when Odysseus’ crew opens the bag of winds?

Answer 8

The winds escape and blow them back to Aeolia, leading Aeolus to refuse assistance.

Question 9

Who are the Laestrygonians?

Answer 9

A race of giant cannibals that attack Odysseus and destroy his ships.

Question 10

What transformation does Circe perform on Odysseus’ men?

Answer 10

She turns them into pigs using magic.

Question 11

What protects Odysseus from Circe’s magic?

Answer 11

The magical herb moly provided by Hermes.

Question 12

What does Tiresias warn Odysseus about in the Underworld?

Answer 12

He warns him to avoid harming the sacred cattle of Helios.

Question 13

What tragic news does Odysseus learn from his mother in the Underworld?

Answer 13

She died of grief waiting for his return.

Question 14

What is Achilles’ view on life after death?

Answer 14

He prefers to be a servant on earth than to rule among the dead.

Question 15

What must Odysseus do to resist the Sirens’ song?

Answer 15

He has his crew plug their ears with beeswax and ties himself to the mast.

Question 16

What does Odysseus choose to confront between Scylla and Charybdis?

Answer 16

He chooses to sail closer to Scylla, losing six men but avoiding total destruction.

Question 17

What happens to Odysseus’ crew on Thrinacia?

Answer 17

They slaughter the sacred cattle of Helios, leading to divine punishment.

Question 18

What does Odysseus do after escaping from the Cyclops?

Answer 18

He taunts Polyphemus by revealing his true name.

Question 19

What theme is illustrated by Odysseus claiming the name ‘Nobody’?

Answer 19

Heroism through intellect and creativity.

Question 20

What does Odysseus’ journey to the Underworld signify?

Answer 20

His mental fortitude and sense of duty.

Question 21

How does Odysseus demonstrate leadership in Book 12?

Answer 21

He inspires courage in his crew during danger.

Question 22

What internal conflict does Odysseus face regarding the Cyclops?

Answer 22

The tension between caution and the desire for knowledge and glory.

Question 23

What does Odysseus’ confrontation with the suitors represent?

Answer 23

The restoration of justice against the violation of social and divine order.

Question 24

Fill in the blank: Odysseus is warned by Tiresias to avoid the _______ of Helios.

Answer 24

cattle

Question 25

True or False: Odysseus' men willingly obey his warnings about the Sirens.

Answer 25

False

Question 26

How does this quote relate to the themes: “Cyclops, if ever any mortal man asks you how you came by your blindness, tell him your eye was put out by Odysseus, sacker of cities.”

Answer 26

This line is spoken by Odysseus after he and his men successfully escape from the Cyclops Polyphemus. Up until this moment, Odysseus had concealed his identity, telling Polyphemus his name was “Nobody.” Once safely out to sea, however, Odysseus reveals his true name and heritage, boasting loudly to the blinded giant. Kleos (Glory through Deeds): In the Homeric tradition, a hero's legacy is defined by how widely and honorably he is known. Odysseus' announcement of his name is an attempt to claim credit for his cleverness and bravery—his triumph over the Cyclops. Arete (Excellence): Odysseus not only outsmarts Polyphemus with a cunning plan (using the name “Nobody,” intoxicating him, and executing the escape) but also asserts his heroic stature through his lineage (“son of Laertes”) and martial reputation (“sacker of cities”). Heroic Identity: Revealing his name is an assertion of identity—a hallmark of Homeric heroes who must be remembered and recognized for their deeds. It reflects a deep-seated need for immortality through story and reputation. Human vs. Divine Conflict: This moment is the turning point that escalates Odysseus’ journey into a prolonged struggle against Poseidon. By naming himself, Odysseus provokes Polyphemus, who then prays to his father, Poseidon, to curse Odysseus. The god obliges, ensuring Odysseus suffers extended hardship. Internal Conflict (Hubris vs. Restraint): Odysseus’ pride and desire for recognition override his prudence. His need to be acknowledged as the victor undermines his earlier strategic caution (anonymity). This moment marks a classic example of hubris—excessive pride that invites divine punishment.

Question 27

How does this quote relate to the themes: “When they had feasted well and drank their fill, the men filled my ears with their shouting, urging me to flee at once. But I stayed to meet the Cyclops.”

Question 28

How does this quote relate to the themes: “I did not mention Scylla, that inescapable horror, fearing they would stop rowing in panic.”

Question 29

How does this quote relate to the themes: “I drove them, all wailing, back to the hollow ships, and dragged them beneath the benches.”