Part II: “Penelope” and “The Challenge” The Odyssey Part II: “Penelope” and “The Challenge”

Literary Analysis Epic Simile What is Odysseus describing in lines 1289-1297? The renown of Penelope’s name To what does he compare it? The honor of a god-fearing king

Historical and Cultural Context Penelope is weaving a burial shroud for her father-in-law. How might weaving a shroud honor the person who died? The Greeks believed that they were clothing the person in fine garments in preparation for the afterlife. How do we honor the dead in our culture? How do the Greek ideas compare with our modern ideas? Both observe rituals while the Greeks observed theirs more strictly.

Critical Thinking Who does Telemachus think Odysseus is when they first reunite? A beggar then a god Compare Odysseus’s emotions with those of Telemachus at their reunion Telemachus is first confused and skeptical then excited while Odysseus is anxious the whole time.

Critical Thinking Describe Antinous’s treatment of Odysseus. He belittles and abuses Odysseus. Why do you think Antinous treats Odysseus this way? He believes Odysseus is a beggar and, therefore, beneath him.

Critical Thinking What does Odysseus tell Penelope about himself? He is a wanderer with a past too painful to reveal. Why do you think Odysseus chooses not to reveal his identity to his wife? He is not ready to trust that his wife has been loyal, or he wants to wait until he has executed his plan.

Critical Thinking Which of Odysseus’s responsibilities are revealed in this section? It reveals his responsibilities to keep his family safe and to defend his wife’s honor. Do you think he manages them heroically?