Odyssey book 9

Question 1

Cicones Encounter:

Answer 1

Characters: Odysseus, Cicones
Odysseus and his men sack the city of the Cicones, but the men’s greed for plunder leads to a counter-attack, resulting in many deaths.
Themes:

Piety, Customs, and Justice: The parable warns about the consequences of excessive greed and the violation of established customs.

Cunning, Disguise, and Self-Restraint: Reflects on Odysseus’s role and decisions, showcasing the clash between vainglory and sensibility.

Question 2

Lotus Eaters:

Answer 2

Characters: Odysseus, Crew, Lotus Eaters

The crew eats the lotus fruit, losing all desire for home. Odysseus intervenes, displaying the connection between memory and desire.

Themes:
Memory and Grief: Highlights the importance of memory in motivating action and the peril of losing it.

Question 3

Encounter with the Cyclops:

Answer 3

Characters: Odysseus, Crew, Cyclops (Polyphemus)

Odysseus and his men explore the Cyclops’ cave, disregarding danger. Polyphemus displays no piety, leading to deadly consequences.

Themes:
Piety, Customs, and Justice: The Cyclops’ lack of respect for divine and human rules contrasts with Odysseus’s expectations.

Cunning, Disguise, and Self-Restraint: Odysseus’s vainglorious nature and the consequences of his choices are evident.

Question 4

Polyphemus Blinding:

Answer 4

Characters: Odysseus, Crew, Polyphemus

Odysseus devises a plan to blind Polyphemus. The use of cunning, feigned friendliness, and a false name contributes to the success.

Themes:
Cunning, Disguise, and Self-Restraint: Demonstrates Odysseus’s wit, disguises, and the consequences of his boastful nature.

Glory and Honor: Odysseus’s desire for fame exposes vulnerability and complicates the escape plan.

Question 5

Escape from Polyphemus:

Answer 5

Characters: Odysseus, Crew, Polyphemus

Odysseus plans the escape by tying men to rams. Polyphemus’s vengeful act is countered, and Odysseus reveals his name during escape.

Themes:
Fate, the Gods, and Free Will: Raises questions about fate as Polyphemus prays for revenge, invoking Poseidon.
Piety, Customs, and Justice: Sacrifices to Zeus do not appease the god, questioning the effectiveness of piety.