Literary Terms Background Greek History The Odyssey Literary Terms Background Greek History
Genre EPIC POEM A long narrative poem Begins w/ invocation Adventure Heroic Figure Setting is vast Supernatural forces Serious tone (elevated language)
The Epic Hero An epic’s central character Larger-than-life figure from history Undertakes a dangerous voyage Demonstrates loyalty, courage, and honor Valued by society
Literary Techniques Simile Metaphor Personification Epithet Foreshadowing
Simile A comparison between two things using “like” or “as” Example: “…and leaned on it turning it as a shipwright turns a drill in planking,…” (p.992)
Metaphor A comparison between two things without using “like” or “as” Example: “Why bait the beast again?” (p.996)
Personification Describing an object by giving it human qualities Example: “…The Cyclops bellowed and the rock roared round him…” (p.992)
Epithet Short, descriptive title A characterizing word or phrase associated with a person or thing Example: “Richard the Lion-Hearted” “…the young Dawn with fingertips of rose” (p.990)
Foreshadowing Clues that suggest events that have yet to occur Creates suspense
Archetype The most typical example of a particular kind of person or thing; ideal example Universally recognized Examples: the mother figure, the wise old man, the child, or the hero
The Greek Hero Strong in mind and body High social standing Actions affect others Struggle against human weakness
The Hero’s Journey CYCLE: Hero possesses supernatural ability Charged with a quest Hero is tested Travels to supernatural world Hero nearly gives up A resurrection: moves from defeat to triumph Restitution: regains rightful place on throne
Hubris Excessive pride or self-confidence Arrogance Think about Achilles in Troy.
The Odyssey Begins “in medias res” In the middle of things
The Iliad The prequel to The Odyssey Concerned with the events of the Trojan War Written by Homer
The Trojan War Historical Context Fought between Spartans and Trojans Spartans- from Sparta V. Trojans- from Troy
Map of Ancient Greece
Where is Greece?
The Odyssey A Journey Home King Odysseus fought on behalf of the Spartans. He attempts to return home to Ithaca after 10 years at war. Gods are angered by Odysseus’ pride and curse him to wander the earth for 10 years.
The Journey
Characters Odysseus- King of Ithaca Penelope- Queen of Ithaca Telemachus- son of Odysseus & Penelope Agamemnon- leader of the Greek forces Polyphemus (Cyclops)- son of Poseidon Poseidon- god of the sea Calypso- sea goddess who loves Odysseus Circe- enchantress who helps Odysseus