The Odyssey - Reading Test

Who is the protagonist in the book?

• Eurylochus

• Odysseus

• Circe

To whom is Zeus speaking in this direct quote: “No magic wings to carry him, no words of advice whispered in his ear while he sleeps, no visits to Earth to walk by his side. The man loves his wife. It would be a great mistake for any foolish goddess to fall in love with him.”

• Aphrodite

• Calypso

• Athena

What name does Odysseus use as an alias with Polyphemus?

• Hercules, the Magnificent

• Odysseus, King of Ithaca

• Nobody Atall

“As they ate, she walked round the table –round the backs of their chars. She carried a willow wand, plaited liker her hair, and as she passed each man, she knocked him about the head with it—gently, as if she were teasing.”

Which character’s actions are listed in this direct quote?

• Calypso

• Penelope

• Circe

Which goddess is in love with Odysseus?

• Athena

• Artemis

• Aphrodite

How would you describe the Laestrygonians?

• They were tan and covered with juices from the lotus fruit.

• They were cannibalistic giants.

• They all had one giant eye.

What is being described by Polites in this direct quote: “Forgive me, my lord Odysseus, but I don’t believe you saw those three screeching, scrawny vultures pecking on the bones of a thousand dead and dying sailors. Ah, those poor men – all stretched out like worshippers at a shrine.”

• The Siren Singers

• Calypso's Cave

• Pelicata Palace

How many years total had Odysseus been away from his home before he is reunited with his wife and son?

• 10 years

• 20 years

• 5 years

What is the first obstacle that Odysseus and his men face on the journey home?

• A nine-day storm

• the Lotus-Eaters

• Charybdis

Which character states the following: “If you had turned back… if only you had cared enough to turn back and look for me and give me a decent burial! But I came here nameless and the spirits won’t speak to me, because I had no proper funeral.”

• Polites

• Hector

• Elpenor