Study Questions for Homer's Odyssey

• Note that the version of the Odyssey we are reading was translated by Robert Fitzgerald.  How does his translation differ from Fagles's translation of the Iliad we read?  Note, especially, that he spells the names of many characters differently (Achilles is now Akhilleus, etc.).  What are the advantages and disadvantages of preserving the Greek pronunciation?
• Compare the opening lines of the Odyssey to the opening lines of the Iliad.
• What kind of heroic ideal does Odysseus represent?  In what ways is Odysseus not like Achilles?
• What is the role of hospitality in the poem?  Can you identify episodes that subvert or parody the idea of hospitality?
• What is the role of women in the Odyssey?
• How would you describe Odysseus's relationship with Athena?
• What does Kalypso offer Odysseus to stay with her?  Why does he refuse?
• Read Odysseus's encounter with Nausicaa carefully.  What do you learn about Odysseus in this episode?
• Who are the Phaeacians?  What does Odysseus tell them about himself when he arrives?
• What is the significance (and function) of the singer Demodokos?  Why does Odysseus cry when he sings?
• What does Odysseus tell the Phaeacians about himself in Book 9?  Is he always telling the truth?
• What does Circe (Kirke in the Fitzgerald translation) do to Odysseus and his men?  How does Odysseus rescue his men?
• Who does Odysseus meet in Hades?  What does he learn there?  Why does he need to go to Hades?
• What is the effect of the Sirens on Odysseus and his crew?  How does Odysseus get past them?
• Read the encounter between Odysseus and Athena in Book 13 carefully.  What does Odysseus say to her?  How does Athena treat him?  Does he tell her the truth?
• How does the swineherd Eumaeus receive Odysseus?  Who does Odysseus tell him he is?
• Who is Telemachus?  Where has he been?  What happens when he re-unites with Odysseus?
• How does Odysseus arrive at his home?  How does he get rid of the suitors?
• What kind of character is Penelope?