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

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Penelope, when did Odysseus say it was acceptable for her to remarry?

2. According to Book 13, what else does Alcinous decide to give Odysseus once his tale is over?

3. Which suitor has a "bad feeling" after Odysseus the beggar tries to warn him of impending danger in Book 18?

4. What is the name Odysseus the beggar gives as his own in Book 19?

5. How many suitors are spared in Book 22 before Eurycleia is summoned for cleaning the hall?

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

Odysseus is gone from home for a long time. He experiences more than most men. Dissect his journey and analyze its parts. Which part of his journey could he have changed easily and, thereby, returned home sooner? Why?

Essay Topic 3

The poem ends abruptly because there needs to be an explanation for peace. How does the ending demonstrate this society's belief in the rule of law? Without the intervention of the immortals, would the conflict continue?

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