Exploring The Odyssey: Key Themes and Characters

Odysseus embarks on a journey seeking wisdom from a blind prophet, who guides him through challenges at sea. Meanwhile, Penelope faces pressure from suitors in Ithaca. Odysseus is held captive by Calypso but eventually returns to reclaim his home, aided by his son Telemachus, who has been searching for him.

What does the blind prophet tell Odysseus about the journey?

• It is a waste of time.

• It is a distraction from his goal.

• It will lead to his doom.

• It is the journey itself that makes up his life.

Who does Odysseus encounter that urges him to hurry back to Ithaca?

• His wife

• His son

• His mother

• His father

What does Penelope do to delay choosing a new husband?

• She hides from the suitors.

• She weaves a shroud and unravels it each night.

• She pretends to be ill.

• She leaves Ithaca.

What advice is given to Telemachus to deal with the suitors?

• To poison their food.

• To fight them immediately.

• To call an assembly and seek help.

• To leave Ithaca.

Who holds Odysseus captive on her island?

• Athena

• Calypso

• Circe

• Penelope

How does Odysseus finally leave Calypso's island?

• He is rescued by his men.

• He steals a ship.

• He builds a raft with Calypso's help.

• He swims away.

In what disguise does Odysseus return to Ithaca?

• As a merchant

• As a soldier

• As a king

• As a beggar

Who helps Odysseus reclaim his kingdom from the suitors?

• His son Telemachus

• His mother

• His father

• His wife

What contest does Penelope set to choose a new husband?

• A sword fight

• A foot race

• Stringing Odysseus' bow and shooting an arrow through 12 axes

• A wrestling match

What is the ultimate fate of the suitors in Odysseus' palace?

• They escape and return with reinforcements.

• They are killed by Odysseus and Telemachus.

• They are imprisoned.

• They are forgiven and sent away.