1. The Odyssey
A Reading Guide

2. Book 1
1. Why would the author include the details about how the men were lost in the invocation? (Lines 1-17)
2. What conflicts has Odysseus’ family endured?

3. Book 9
“I am Laertes’ Son”
3. Reread lines 1-6. How will Odysseus repay the hospitality that Alcinous shows.
4. What do the details in lines reveal about Odysseus’ feelings.
5. What characteristics of a archetypal hero does Odysseus display?

4. Refer to the Close Reader
The Cyclops
Refer to the Close Reader

5. Book 10
**Read the synopsis. Discuss with a partner how the Cyclops’s curse is already being fulfilled? (page 386)
6. Why does Polites feel that Circe does not pose any threat to the men? (Lines 14-22)
7. What qualities of an epic hero does Odysseus display in the final synopsis? (page 387)

6. Group Work-Theme The power of cunning over strength
In your groups, please answer the following question:
How do characters affect the theme in The Odyssey?
You may write your answers in bullet points
Be specific
Cite at least one piece of evidence to support your answer! (MLA in-text citation)
Everyone needs to participate

7. Book 11
8. Describe the setting of The Land of the Dead. Cite evidence to support your answer. (1-23) 9.Find examples of 3 compound words. Explain what they mean based on your understand of each individual word. Example: Livestock

8. Book 12
In a well-written paragraph, answer question 10. Make sure to cite evidence to support your writing.
10. So far in the text, what instance do you think Odysseus demonstrates his greatest act of heroism? Why?