1. The Myth Continues...
English I

2. The Odyssey is an Epic
“An extended narrative poem, usually simple in construction, but grand in scope, exalted in style, and heroic in theme, often giving expression to the ideals of a nation or race. ”
An epic is a long, narrative poem about important events in the history or folklore of a culture
adventures contain a central figure- an epic
hero who is a larger than life character. Through his behavior and deeds, the epic hero displays qualities that are valued by the society in which the epic originated.

3. Characteristics of an Epic Hero:
Excels in strength, bravery, and courage.
Succeeds in war and adventure.
Values honor and glory.
Usually has a guide (a god or goddess to help in certain situations).
Battles demons and monsters.
Is generous to his followers and ruthless to his enemies.

4. Characteristics of an Epic Hero (cont’d):
Accepts challenges, and sometimes creates problems.
Makes rash decisions and takes unnecessary risks.
Meets monsters and temptations.
Encounters women who tempt him.
Descends into darkness (often called the Underworld)
Achieves his goal.

5. The setting is vast and varied; covers nations, the
The Odyssey opens in media res. This means "in the middle of things," usually with the hero at his lowest point.  Earlier portions of the story appear later as flashbacks.
The setting is vast and varied; covers nations, the
world, and the universe.
The historical and cultural context, or setting, is the time and place in which the work is set and the themes and issues important at that time and place.
Analyze how figurative language reflects the particular time and place
Uses epic similes (usually long, extended
comparisons of unlike objects using like, as, or than) 5

6. Supernatural forces interest themselves in the
Homer (the writer) invokes a Muse, one of the nine daughters of Zeus.  The poet prays to the muses to provide him with divine inspiration to tell the story of a great hero.
Supernatural forces interest themselves in the
action and intervene at times.
The action consists of deeds of valor or
superhuman courage (especially in battle). 6

7. Epithets are used (a descriptive phrase, linked to a name, that helps to describe a particular character or thing.

8. 1. Origin/Home Tells the birthplace or kingdom of the character
Example:
Odysseus, whose home’s on Ithaca

9. 2. Patronymic Gives the lineage of the character Example:
Odysseus, son of Laertes

10. 3. Appearance/State
Includes a physical description of the
character
Example:
Circe, loveliest of goddesses

11. 4. Skill / Art
Refers to a noteworthy
attribute
Example:
Odysseus, master mariner
and soldier

12. 5. Position
Identifies the character's position in their society
Example:
Poseidon, god of the wine-dark sea

13. 6. Heroic Quality
Identifies epic or cultural
ideals or innate qualities
Example:
Odysseus, raider of cities

14. Video on modern allusions to The Odyssey: https://youtu.be/6uf5zxy2klg
Sirens
Allusions are references to well-known people, places, events, literary works, or works of art.
Video on modern allusions to The Odyssey:
The Trojan Horse