The Odyssey Quiz December 2 24

Who pleads with Zeus to help Odysseus in Book 1?

• Hermes

• Athena

• Poseidon

• Apollo

Answer explanation

In Book 1 of the Odyssey, Athena pleads with Zeus to help Odysseus, who is struggling to return home. She advocates for him, highlighting his plight and seeking divine intervention on his behalf.

What is Telemachus's main concern in Book 1?

• Finding his mother

• Defending the suitors

• Learning about his father

• Protecting his kingdom

Answer explanation

In Book 1, Telemachus's main concern is learning about his father, Odysseus, who has been absent for years. He seeks information about Odysseus's fate and legacy, which drives his actions throughout the story.

What disguise does Athena use when she visits Telemachus?

• Phemius, the court musician

• Aegyptius, an elder of Ithaca

• Mentes, a friend of Odysseus

• Phemius, the court musician

Answer explanation

Athena disguises herself as Mentes, a friend of Odysseus, to visit Telemachus. This choice allows her to provide guidance and support while remaining incognito, as she seeks to help him on his journey.

Who is the Cyclops that Odysseus encounters in Book 9?

• Polyphemus

• Charybdis

• Scylla

• Circe

Answer explanation

Odysseus encounters Polyphemus, the Cyclops, in Book 9 of the Odyssey. Polyphemus is known for his giant size and one eye, and he captures Odysseus and his men, leading to a clever escape.

What name does Odysseus give to Polyphemus?

• Odysseus

• Nobody

• King of Ithaca

• Hero

Answer explanation

Odysseus cleverly tells Polyphemus that his name is 'Nobody.' This allows him to escape when he blinds the Cyclops, as Polyphemus later tells others that 'Nobody' is hurting him, preventing them from coming to his aid.

How does Odysseus and his men escape from the Cyclops's cave?

• They fight their way out

• They hide under sheep

• They use a secret tunnel

• They bribe the Cyclops

Answer explanation

Odysseus and his men escape the Cyclops's cave by hiding under the sheep as they leave. This clever tactic allows them to avoid detection by the Cyclops, who is too blind to see them beneath the animals.

What is the consequence of Odysseus revealing his true name to Polyphemus?

• Polyphemus curses him

• Polyphemus forgives him

• Polyphemus helps him

• Polyphemus ignores him

Answer explanation

When Odysseus reveals his true name to Polyphemus, the Cyclops curses him, calling upon Poseidon to take revenge. This act leads to further challenges for Odysseus on his journey home.

What leadership trait does Odysseus show when dealing with Polyphemus?

• Bravery

• Cleverness

• Compassion

• Humility

Answer explanation

Odysseus demonstrates cleverness when dealing with Polyphemus by devising a cunning plan to escape. He tricks the Cyclops into believing his name is 'Nobody,' allowing him and his men to outsmart and blind Polyphemus.

Which character trait leads to Odysseus' downfall in Book 9?

• Cowardice

• Hubris (Pride)

• Laziness

• Dishonesty

Answer explanation

In Book 9, Odysseus displays hubris by taunting the Cyclops Polyphemus after blinding him, revealing his excessive pride and arrogance. This flaw ultimately leads to further troubles for him and his crew.

What motivates Athena to assist Odysseus on his journey?

• She is in love with him

• She respects his courage

• She wants to oppose Zeus

• She pities his plight

Answer explanation

Athena admires Odysseus' bravery and cleverness, which is why she chooses to assist him on his journey home. Her support stems from respect for his heroic qualities rather than personal feelings or defiance against Zeus.