A Long and Difficult Journey, or The Odyssey: Crash Course Literature 201

1.     How long did it take Odysseus to return home from the Trojan War? - It took Odysseus 10 years to finally arrive home from the Trojan War. 

2.     According to Google Maps, how long should this trip have taken? - According to Google Maps, the trip should have taken two weeks. 

3.     According to archeological evidence, when did the Trojan War occur? - According to archeological evidence, the Trojan War occurred around the twelfth century B.C.E. 

4.     When did Homer compose The Odyssey? - Homer composed the Odyssey in the eighth century B.C.E  

5.     What is the definition of “epic poem”? - An epic poem is a long, narrative poem; on a serious subject; written in a grand or elevated style; centered on a larger-than-life hero. 

6.     Who is Odysseus’ wife? - Odysseus' wife is Penelope and daughter of Icarius of Sparta and his wife Perriboea. 

7.     Who is Odysseus’ son? - She only has one son by Odysseus, Telemachus, who was born just before Odysseus was called to fight in the Trojan War. 

8.     What happens in the cave of the Cyclops? - Odysseus and several of his men settle in the cave and start feasting on goat cheese that the Cyclops had hoarded. Then the Cyclops comes to the cave and began eating them, then Odysseus gets the Cyclops drunk and blinds him with a flaming spear. 

9.     Is Odysseus a hero? Why or why not? - Odysseus is a hero, because he remains faithful and loyal to his wife and household. Odysseus also was the man who saved the Greeks in the Trojan War and helped them win the war. He came up with the idea of the Trojan horse. 

10.  What is considered one of the most beautiful lines in all of Homer? - The most beautiful line in all of Homer was "and so she rejoiced, her gaze upon her husband, her white arms around him, pressed as though forever."