Orpheus and Eurydice - Czeslaw Milosz

What lesson did Orpheus learn?

• To follow instructions

• Be polite

• Don't be vain

• Be prepared

Answer explanation

Orpheus's lesson learned was to follow instructions, as his failure to heed the warning not to look back led to tragic consequences. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to guidance.

Did Orpheus successfully bring Eurydice back to the living world?

• a) Yes

• b) No

Answer explanation

Orpheus attempted to bring Eurydice back from the underworld, but he failed when he looked back at her before reaching the surface, causing her to be lost to him forever. Therefore, the correct answer is b) No.

What happened when Orpheus turned around to Eurydice?

• She pushed him

• She disappeared

• She scared him

• She killed him

Answer explanation

When Orpheus turned around to look at Eurydice, he broke the condition set by Hades, causing her to disappear forever. This tragic moment highlights the consequences of doubt and impatience in their love story.

What instrument did Orpheus play?

• Guitar

• Lyre

• Piano

• Drum

Answer explanation

Orpheus is famously known for playing the lyre, a stringed instrument from ancient Greece. The lyre was associated with music and poetry, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What was the challenge Hades gave Orpheus in order to escape the underworld with his wife?

• Not to look at Eurydice until they were out of Hades

• To run out of Hades as fast as they could

• To sacrifice someone they love who’s out of Hades

• To carry Eurydice out of Hades the whole way without stopping

Answer explanation

Hades challenged Orpheus not to look at Eurydice until they had both safely exited the underworld. This test was crucial; if Orpheus looked back, Eurydice would be lost to him forever.

10. Which IS NOT a main theme in this poem?

• 1. Adventure

• 3. Loss

• 4. Hope

Answer explanation

The poem primarily explores themes of loss and hope, while adventure is not a central focus. Therefore, adventure is the correct answer as it is not a main theme in this poem.

Draw Orpheus

How do Czesław Miłosz's unique perspective and life experiences shape his retelling of the story of Orpheus and Eurydice?

Answer explanation

Czesław Miłosz's experiences of war and exile inform his retelling of Orpheus and Eurydice, emphasizing themes of loss and longing, reflecting his deep understanding of human suffering and the quest for redemption.