Odysseus and the Suitors' Challenge

In Chapter 9 of The Odyssey, Penelope sets a challenge for her suitors: to string Odysseus's bow and shoot an arrow through twelve axe heads. Telemachus attempts but fails. Odysseus, disguised as a beggar, reveals his identity to Eumaeus and wins the contest. He then battles the suitors with Telemachus and loyal servants, defeating them. Odysseus proves his identity to Penelope by describing their bed, built around an olive tree, and they reunite. Odysseus recalls a prophecy requiring another journey to appease Poseidon, but Penelope supports him, ensuring peace in their future.

What does Penelope use to determine her next husband?

• A cooking contest

• A singing competition

• Stringing Odysseus' bow

• A foot race

Why does Telemachus attempt to string the bow?

• To win a bet

• To honor his father

• To impress Penelope

• To prove his strength

What does Odysseus show Eumaeus to prove his identity?

• A royal seal

• A family heirloom

• A scar on his leg

• A secret handshake

How do the suitors react when Odysseus strings the bow?

• They cheer for him

• They are outraged

• They laugh at him

• They ignore him

What is the outcome of the battle with the suitors?

• Odysseus is captured

• The battle ends in a draw

• The suitors win

• Odysseus defeats the suitors

How does Penelope test Odysseus' identity?

• By asking about their wedding day

• By mentioning a secret about their bed

• By challenging him to a duel

• By asking him to sing a song

What prophecy does Odysseus recall that requires him to undertake another journey?

• A prophecy from Tiresias about Poseidon's curse

• A prophecy about his kingdom

• A prophecy about his son

• A prophecy about his wealth