Odyssey: Key Concepts and Themes

Miss Wright discusses her annotations on the Lotus Eaters section from the Odyssey, explaining the significance of the lotus flower and its effects on Odysseus' crew. She highlights literary devices like epithets and formulas used in the text, emphasizing Odysseus' leadership and the challenges he faces. The lesson concludes with instructions for students to complete comprehension and critical thinking questions.

What is the primary characteristic of the lotus flower in the story?

• It is a rare gemstone.

• It is edible and intoxicating.

• It is a type of tree.

• It is a symbol of war.

What natural event does Zeus cause to challenge Odysseus's journey?

• A storm

• An earthquake

• A drought

• A volcanic eruption

How many ships does Odysseus have during his journey?

• 12

• 10

• 8

• 5

What happens to Odysseus's men after they consume the lotus flower?

• They become aggressive.

• They fall asleep immediately.

• They forget their desire to return home.

• They gain superhuman strength.

What action does Odysseus take to prevent his men from staying with the Lotus Eaters?

• He leaves them behind.

• He negotiates with the Lotus Eaters.

• He ties them to the ship.

• He destroys the lotus plants.

What literary device is used frequently in the Odyssey to aid memory?

• Irony

• Repetition

• Metaphor

• Alliteration

What is an epithet as used in the Odyssey?

• A form of ancient currency

• A type of poem

• A mythical creature

• A repeated phrase describing a character

What lesson does Odysseus learn from his first encounter with the Cicones?

• To avoid all islands

• To send scouts before disembarking

• To never trust strangers

• To always attack first

Why is the lotus flower considered dangerous?

• It attracts wild animals.

• It is poisonous.

• It makes people forget their home.

• It causes physical harm.

What does Odysseus warn his men about the lotus flower?

• It will make them fall asleep.

• It will make them aggressive.

• It will cause them to lose hope of returning home.

• It will make them sick.