View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Circe keep Telemachus safe from Scylla?

2. Who comes to Aiaia with a message from Athena in Chapter 23?

3. What does Penelope seem to feel guilty about concerning her son Telemachus?

4. Who is Odysseus's son?

5. What is the whirlpool near Scylla named?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Telemachus give to Telegonus as a parting gift?

2. In Chapter 16, why does Odysseus at first refuse to eat Circe's food?

3. How does Circe keep Telemachus safe as they face Scylla?

4. What does Penelope ask Circe for to help her mourn for her husband?

5. In Chapter 24, why do Telemachus and Penelope need some time to talk and walk alone?

6. What does Athena want Telemachus to do when she visits him on Aiaia?

7. What happens to Telegonus on Ithaca?

8. What does Circe use as leverage against Helios when she summons him to ask him to lift her exile in Chapter 25?

9. What does Odysseus learn through the prophecy about how he will die?

10. How does Telemachus reply to Athena when she makes her request of him?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why is Circe attracted to Daedalus, and what does the extraordinary loom he sends her back to Aiaia with symbolize? Write an essay explaining your answer, citing specific references from the text.

Essay Topic 2

From the first ship bearing Daedalus to the small ship Circe finally leaves Aiaia on with Telemachus centuries later, ships play an important role in the action of this novel. Write an essay analyzing the symbolism of ships in Circe.

Essay Topic 3

Why does Circe try to convince Medea to separate herself from Jason, and what does Medea's reaction to Circe's entreaties reveal about women's place in society at that time, even if they were deities? Write an essay explaining your answer, drawing on specific references from the text for support.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 670 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample