The Odyssey Quiz

“The Odyssey” by Homer

1.  Read the following passage from The Odyssey, “...straight forward they sprinted, lifted it, and rammed it deep in his crater eye, and I leaned on it turning it as a shipwreck turns a drill.” Is this an example of a simile? How do you know? What is being compared? Explain.

2.  Read the following passage from The Odyssey, “When Dawn [light] spread out her finger tips of rose.” Is this an example of personification? Why or why not? What is being given human qualities in the passage?

3.  Hospitality is one of the major themes in The Odyssey. What is hospitality? Provide an example of a time when Odysseus was treated with hospitality. Also, provide an example of when Odysseus was not treated with hospitality.

4.  Another major theme in The Odyssey is loyalty. What is loyalty? Provide examples of how Penelope and Telemachus show their loyalty to Odysseus.

5.  Vengeance is another prevalent theme within The Odyssey. What is vengeance? Why does Poseidon seek vengeance on Odysseus? Why does Odysseus seek vengeance on the suitors? Explain.