Book VII (7): Gardens and Firelight pages 111-121 By: Jaqlyn Al Miss Yost English 8 15 February 2010

Places Visited

Places Visited Continued Odysseus is washed up at the shore of Phaiakia (also known as Scheria or Phaecia). Athena leads Odysseus to King Alkinoos’ castle. From there, Athena takes off overseas to Marathon city. Odysseus stays at Phaiakia to ask for help.

Main Characters Princess Nausikaa Daughter of King Alkinoos and Arete Interacts with Odysseus when he approaches her after being washed up at shore Helps Odysseus somewhat in finding his way around town

Main Characters Continued -King Alkinoos and Queen Arete Rulers of Phaikia Alkinoos is the son of Nausithoos - Originally, Nausithoos had two sons; one of them died (Rhexenor). -Rhexenor’s daughter is Arete -Yeah…Alkinoos married his niece…Gross! Alkinoos and Arete help out Odysseus by giving him a ship to travel back home and by pampering him.

Summarization of Stanzas -Odysseus goes to King Alkinoos’ and Queen Arete’s enormous castle to see if they could help in his journey back home. -He gets to the castle by a little girl showing him the way. The little girl was actually Athena in a disguise. -When Odysseus gets inside the castle, he pleads Arete for her help then tells the royal family all he has been through for the past years.

Summarization continued During this book, it seemed really important for Odysseus to get back home, but at the same time, he was tired and wanted to stick around the castle for a bit. He was influenced to do so since King Alkinoos brought up how Odysseus would make a great husband for Princess Nausikaa. Of course Odysseus would be tempted to stay because Princess Nausikaa is known for being beautiful.

Analysis -In book VII, Odysseus was determined to go home, but at the same time was slightly tempted to stay. -After hearing Odysseus’ sob story, Alkinoos, Arete, and Princess Nausikaa felt sympathy for Odysseus. They were good Samaritans in helping Odysseus get back home.

Analysis Continued -The themes that were most apparent were: Loneliness: Odysseus was lonely and missing his wife and son. Storytelling: Odysseus had to tell his story of getting lost and being held hostage by a love nymph, like, twice. Temptation: Odysseus is tempted to stay in Phaiakia. Disguises: Athena disguises herself as a little girl who leads Odysseus to Alkinoos’ castle. Hospitality: When Odysseus has told Alkinoos and Arete what he has gone through, they have the maids feed, clothe, and set up a bed for him. - In this chapter, the citizens were very kind, they weren’t judgmental, and were happy to help.

Any Questions?