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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who gives Odysseus the bow that Penelope is using in her contest for the suitors?

2. Where is Telemachus supposed to put all the fighting gear that lies about Odysseus' hall?

3. How do the suitors view the fight between the two beggars in Book 18?

4. What sign does Odysseus give to his father so he believes that Odysseus has returned?

5. Why is Telemachus skeptical that he and Odysseus can handle the suitors without help?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Vengeance and/or law being exercised fuel much of the action in this epic poem. It is an act of vengeance, which keeps Odysseus so long from his homeland? It is an act of vengeance, which slaughters the suitors? It is vengeance, which moves half the men of Ithaca to attack Odysseus on the farm? Where does the death of Odysseus' crew for the cattle of the Sun fit in? Why does Athena condone the slaughter of the suitors? Select three of these acts. Analyze each act, making sure to include mitigating factors, and determine which are criminal and which are legitimate.

Essay Topic 2

This poem contains the stories of five pairs of husbands and wives. Explain what is to be learned about marriage from each pair. This should also include a discussion of the roles of men and women.

Essay Topic 3

The Odyssey is the story of Odysseus' homeward journey. However, Telemachus also makes a journey. Compare and contrast Odyssesus and Telemachus' journeys. Which man experiences greater change as a result from his journey? Why?

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This section contains 395 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample