The Odyssey Questions on Book 2
The Odyssey
Where does divine intervention occur in The Odyssey?
Divine intervention in The Odyssey is frequent, particularly by Athena, who advocates for Odysseus and assists Telemachus. Notable examples include Athena convincing Zeus to free Odysseus from...
The Odyssey
Identification and analysis of epithets in various books of The Odyssey
Epithets in The Odyssey serve to characterize individuals and objects, often highlighting key traits. Examples include "rosy-fingered Dawn" for the goddess of the morning, emphasizing beauty and...
The Odyssey
Ringleaders and Plans of the Suitors in The Odyssey
In The Odyssey, the suitors plot to kill Telemachus upon his return from searching for his father, Odysseus. The ringleaders, Antinous and Eurymachus, plan to ambush him between Ithaca and Samos....
The Odyssey
What is an epithet for Telemachus in the Odyssey?
An epithet for Telemachus in "The Odyssey" is "my fine fire-eater," used by Antinous. This epithet reflects Telemachus's bold and assertive nature, as seen when he confronts the suitors exploiting...
The Odyssey
What is the significance of Homer starting "The Odyssey" with Telemachus instead of Odysseus?
Homer begins "The Odyssey" with Telemachus to create dramatic tension and context by starting in medias res, focusing on the crisis at home in Ithaca. This approach highlights the urgency of...
The Odyssey
Zeus' omen to the assembly in The Odyssey
In The Odyssey, Zeus sends an omen to the assembly by striking an eagle clutching a trembling dove, symbolizing the imminent downfall of the suitors and the restoration of order in Ithaca. This omen...
The Odyssey
What happens to Greek society when Odysseus leaves Ithaca in The Odyssey?
When Odysseus leaves Ithaca for the Trojan War, his absence leads to chaos in his household and a decline in societal norms. Noblemen's sons, believing Odysseus dead, overrun his home, disrespecting...
The Odyssey
In Homer's Odyssey, does Odysseus' wife, Penelope, cry frequently?
Penelope does cry frequently in The Odyssey, reflecting her long separation from Odysseus and the challenges she faces. Although Odysseus himself cries more often, Penelope's tears are significant....
The Odyssey
In books 1-2 of The Odyssey, why do the suitors avoid going to Icarius's house?
The suitors avoid going to Icarius's house because they fear he would choose a husband for Penelope, assuming Odysseus is dead. They prefer staying at Odysseus's home, where they exploit the...
The Odyssey
Where in The Odyssey does it explain why Penelope delayed choosing a new husband?
In Book 2 of The Odyssey, Penelope delays choosing a new husband because she hopes Odysseus is still alive. Despite his long absence, she holds onto the possibility of his return. This hope conflicts...
The Odyssey
Who says "Great renown she wins for herself no doubt great loss to you in treasure" in The Odyssey, and why?
In The Odyssey, Antinous, the leader of the suitors, sarcastically remarks, "Great renown she wins for herself no doubt great loss to you in treasure," during an assembly called by Telemachus. He...