View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Why does Odysseus the beggar say he wants the bow after the suitors have all tried to use it?

3. In Book 16, Where do Telemachus' gifts go?

4. Why doesn't Eumaeus want the old man to tell him tales of his master?

5. Which suitor scorns Odysseus the beggar at the second feast which he attends, in Book 20?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The immortals personify the natural elements on Earth. As nature, they are omnipresent and humans are subject to their whims and their will. In many ways, this is the story of man vs. nature. Discuss various examples of how the gods through nature challenge Odysseus, and how he is able to overcome nature.

Essay Topic 2

The Odyssey is the story of Odysseus' homeward journey. However, Telemachus also makes a journey. Compare and contrast Odyssesus and Telemachus' journeys. Which man experiences greater change as a result from his journey? Why?

Essay Topic 3

The Odyssey contains a dark side; Odysseus faces many monsters, a witch, and the underworld. What do these elements symbolize and why are they important for Odysseus to experience? Use the text to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 287 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample