1. How would you (or others) describe yourself? Jot down a few lines that you think best describe your personality. Be prepared to share your response.

2. Epithets

3. Epithet: a short, descriptive title used to characterize (describe the qualities of) a person or thing. There are a few reasons why epithets are important in The Odyssey…

4. Characterization (the means by which a character’s personality is revealed) Identifies individuals Example: “Son of Laertes, Odysseus”

5. Realism (representation of objects/things as they really are) Connects experience and knowledge of audience to the character. Example: “Zeus beyond the storm cloud, Cronus’ son who ruled the world.”

6. Vividness of Narration Helps the reader see the character and offers variety to the narrative Serves as a memory aid to “singers” who had to remember many events from the epic poem. Example: “Odysseus, raider of cities”

7. Oprah Winfrey Tom Brady Abraham Lincoln Adolf Hitler Homer Simpson Homer (poet) Penelope Telemachus

8. List five (5) examples of epithets from The Odyssey on the worksheet provided. Be sure to list the page and line number for easy reference. Be prepared to share your examples!