Odyssey Essay Questions

1. What have you learned about Greek culture, values, and religion? Address the roles of women and men, honor and virtues, gods and goddesses, etc. (250 words)

The Odyssey is not renowned as one of the greatest epic poems without just cause. Not only is it remarkable that this poem has been around for so long, but it also accurately yet subtly shed light on Greek culture and customs.

Prior to reading the Odyssey, I was not familiar with most Greek traditions. However, after reading the Odyssey I have learned that Greek culture is quite similar to some other ancient countries that value men more than women. One thing that made this value quite clear is that in Greek culture it is acceptable for a man to act as somewhat of a lothario, while his wife is unable to do the same actions for risk of being known as a philanderer.

In addition to the difference in value of each sex, the great belief in religion is also notable. The Greek gods play a large role throughout the Odyssey. Their involvement shows how in Greek culture trust with the gods and their power is quite important. To the Greek their gods hold the power to determine everyone’s destiny. Thus several things such as sacrifices are done to gratify the gods in hopes of achieving a life free of the powerful god’s spite.

In addition to pleasing their gods, Greek people find it proper to welcome guests with open arms. This shows the great hospitality that the Greek have. Hospitality is often so rare in the present day, I wonder if to this day it is still possible for a stranger to be treated so well.

2. What resonated with you in reading about Odysseus’ adventures? Why? (150 words)

After reading about Odysseus’ herculean struggles it seemed only just that he should end up with his wife safely. There are four parts to this tale that I am most likely to remember. The first is when right after the birth of his first and only child, Telemachus, Odysseus is forced to battle in Troy. Not only is this chronologically part of the very genesis of Odysseus’ journey, but it was also one of the more sad parts of the story and set the tune for things to come.

The second thing that stuck with me was while Odysseus and his companions were on the island with Polyphemus. Achieving a successful escape plan from the giant showed me one of many examples of Odysseus’ knowledge. Instead of just killing the beast while they were in the cave, he simply blinded it because he knew there’d be no way to leave the cave once Polyphemus was dead. However soon after fleeing the cave I was showed how cockiness can be apparent in the same soul as wisdom.

The third instance which resonates with me is when Odysseus goes to visit the blind prophet. To reach the prophet Odysseus had to go into the fiery pits of Hades. This act displayed just how much Odysseus was eager to return home to his loving wife.

The last part that resonates with me is again an example of Odysseus’ use of wisdom. Once Odysseus returned he did not immediately attack the suitors as some people may have, especially after being away from their wives for about twenty years and coming back to find their house in a sty. Instead Odysseus chose the smarter option and prepared for the brutal attack.

3. This epic poem is dated nearly 3000 years ago, why is it still relevant? (150 words)

Not only does the Odyssey contain the classic archetypes but it also teaches many lessons. Odysseus’ long but rewarding journey also proved to be a great example for perseverance and trust. Odysseus never gave up regardless of how difficult his journey got, he survived through several unusual ordeals, including the many fearsome monsters. In addition his trust in Athena and the gods as a whole assured him when times were worse.

Perhaps one of the reasons why Odysseus’ tale was so long transferred orally was because it was a virtuous story of a man who never gave up and in the end got what he wished and could be said from parent to child like many other tales. Be it as it may, the Odyssey is rather gory and sexual at times; however, in the grand scheme of things it portrays a rather ideal moral worth teaching.

Short Answers-

Answer in complete sentences. Cut and paste each question and answer underneath the prompt.

4. How would you characterize the narrator, the fictive "Homer" whose voice we imagine as singing the verses of the Odyssey?

Homer would have to have been outstandingly brilliant to be able to transfer such a long tale that had only previously been told orally. His adaptations of the Odyssey are the only original written ones known to exist; however, it would be interesting to see what, if any, changes Homer may have made to the Odyssey.

As far as Homer personally, he would also have had to have a great imagination to be able to fully describe the scenes of the Odyssey, it is rather obvious he has achieved this feat, seeing as the epic poem is so well-known today.

5. What kinds of behavior are treated as contemptible in the Odyssey?

It is considered punishable for a woman to sleep with a man who is not her husband. It is also punishable by the gods if you scorn another god or make them upset in some way, like Odysseus with Poseidon’s son Polyphemus. It is also sin-like to not welcome a stranger with open arms.

6. How does the poem represent mortal women? Since Penelope is the most important woman in the Odyssey, what qualities does she possess, and how does she respond to the troubles she faces? (Some of the other women are of note, too-Eurycleia the serving woman, the faithless maidservants, Nausicaa the Phaeacian princess, and Helen of Sparta, Menelaus' queen, whose elopement with Prince Paris sparked the Trojan War.)

Throughout the Odyssey Penelope is portrayed as an extremely devoted wife. When in comparison with other promiscuous women throughout the poem such as the maidservants Penelope’s fealty seems even stronger. Odysseus’ mother was also very loyal to her son, it is made known that while Odysseus was growing up she sacrificed a lot just to raise him properly. In addition, Odysseus’ nurse, Eurycleia also remained loyal and awaited Odysseus’ return alongside Penelope, even after so many years.

7. How do Homer's gods think and behave? How do their actions and motivations differ from the conception of god in other religions of which you have knowledge? What role do the Homeric gods play in human affairs, and what is the responsibility of humans with respect to those gods?

At times it seemed as though the gods used the mortals as their own little pawns, but throughout the story my impression changed. The gods see that it is necessary for each person to go through their trials and tribulations in order to reach their destiny. To the best of my knowledge in other religions it is common to be monotheistic and see your god as a bringer of joy and not so much spite. The gods in Homer’s tale saw fit to punish Odysseus and give him many hills to climb; however, throughout his journey Athena in particular, was somewhat of a guardian angel. In addition it is also seen fit to provide the gods with offerings, whether they be sacrifices or riches.