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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. According to Halitherses in Book 2, how long will Odysseus be gone before he returns to his friends and family?

2. Telemachus is overrun with ________, who sponge off of him and his estate, making no amends.

3. In Book 1, who seeks to punish Odysseus interminably?

4. Who killed Aegisthus for the murder of Agamemnon?

5. Odysseus and his men have just landed on an island after the lotus-eaters. Why does Odysseus leave this place the next morning?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the suitors' fears now that Telemachus has escaped their plot in Book 16?

2. Is the ending satisfying to readers? Why or why not?

3. Does Nausicaa act properly towards Odysseus when giving aid in Book 6?

4. What does Hercules serves as a reminder for/about?

5. Describe the suitors' reaction to Telemachus calling a meeting of the assembly in Book 1.

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

7. In Book 23, Telemachus calls his mother's reaction to Odysseus cold and unfeeling. What does it reveal about her character?

8. Describe Eurylochus' actions in Book 12. What kind of man is he?

9. Why does Athene want to cause Odysseus suffering and pain when she prods the suitors to abuse him in his own house in Book 18?

10. Why does Circe help Odysseus in Book 10?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The word odyssey is synonymous with journey. Explain why this is an appropriate title for the poem.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Athena, the goddess of wisdom, cleverly lobbies for Odysseus' return home with her uncle is away from Mt. Olympus. Though she does not openly oppose him, her actions aid someone whom Poseidon despises. Who is more powerful? Why?

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