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

Short Answer Questions

1. After leaving the lotus-eaters, what do Odysseus and his ships find in Book 9?

2. According to Nausicaa, to whom should Odysseus first appeal when he gets to the court in Book 6?

3. According to Circe, how should Odysseus get past the Sirens while listening to their song?

4. What is special about the cattle and flocks of the Sun?

5. In which contest in Book 8 does Odysseus first outstrip all others?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Calypso feel about releasing Odysseus?

2. What kind of hospitality does Telemachus offer the old man in Book 16?

3. Describe the behavior of the suitors at the assembly in Book 2.

4. How does Euryalus insult Odysseus when the Phaeacians are engaging in sport?

5. Is it necessary for Odysseus to threaten Eurycleia when she recognizes him?

6. Why does Homer begin the last book in the halls of the dead?

7. What is similar to Odysseus' real plight in his fictional tale to Eumaeus in Book 14?

8. Explain the circumstances that lead Athene to intervene on Odysseus' behalf at the very beginning of the poem.

9. Explain Odysseus' reaction to Calypso and Ino's help in Book 5.

10. Why is Poseidon still upset with Odysseus in Book 13? Why does he now seek vengeance against the Phaecians? What can they do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

By personally intervening, Athena shows to Achaeans that both Odysseus and Telemachus are valuable. What does each man possess that is considered important among the Achaeans at this time? Use the text to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

In order to be a leader, generally a person must exhibit certain qualities - nobility, honesty, and chivalry just to name a few. Having a good helping of charisma goes a long way as well. Antinous and Eurymachus are leaders among the suitors, a group of men who lack many positive qualities. Compare the two men. Evaluate which is the better man by determining who has more qualities that are positive and defining what those qualities are.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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