Everything you need to know to read Homer's "Odyssey"

True or False:

"The Odyssey," an epic poem from Ancient Greece, was composed following the creation of the Greek Alphabet in 8th century BC.

• True

• False

Who is traditionally identified as the author of the Odyssey?

• Plato

• Socrates

• Homer

• Aristotle

What does the term 'rhapsode' imply in the context of the Odyssey?

• A style of architecture

• A stitching together of narratives

• A mythical creature

• A type of ancient book

How did rhapsodes memorize epic poems like "The Odyssey" to share with audiences?

• By reading from a script and relying on directors to feed them lines.

• By attending formal schooling on epic poetry,

• Through mnemonic devices, repetition, and meter (rhythm) techniques.

• Through choreographed dances and songs.

What is "The Iliad" about?

• The Iliad is about the Trojan War and the hero Achilles.
• The Iliad is about a peaceful negotiation between two kingdoms.
• The Iliad is about a journey to find a lost treasure.
• The Iliad is about a love story between two gods.

What major theme unites the Odyssey and the Iliad?

• The adventures at sea

• The wrath of the gods

• The importance of family

• The pursuit of knowledge

What is hubris?

• Being humble and unassuming

• The act of being unselfish

• A form of pride that is seen as offensive to nature or the divine

• A form of doubtfulness in one's self or abilities

What is 'xenia' in the context of the Odyssey?

• A form of government

• A type of weapon

• A battle strategy

• A code of hospitality

What are the characteristics of a narrative that begins "in media res"?

• The narrative begins in the middle of the action.

• The narrative begins with a detailed exposition of the setting
• The story unfolds in a linear chronological order
• The narrative starts with a clear resolution of the conflict

Why is Odysseus's journey so troubled?

• 
  He is avoiding his destiny

• He angered Poseidon

• 
  He is cursed by Zeus

• He lost his map