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

Short Answer Questions

1. Since Telemachus dismissed the serving women, how is he able to move the armor in the dark in Book 19?

2. In addition to Odysseus and Penelope, who knew the secret of the bed?

3. Why does Odysseus find sleep difficult in his home in Book 20?

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

5. Which suitor eases Penelope's fears for her son in Book 16?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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?

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

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.

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This section contains 338 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample