odyssey essay introduction

85 Odyssey Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Looking for the Odyssey essay examples and writing tips? This article contains the Odyssey literary analysis how-to guide, prompts, title ideas, outlining tips, and examples.

💡 The Odyssey Essay: Themes & Ideas

❗ the odyssey thesis statements, 🎣 hooks for the odyssey essay, 📜 odyssey essay: how to write, 🏆 the odyssey essay examples, 👍 the odyssey essay topics, ❓ odyssey essay questions.

Homer’s Odyssey remains one of the most impressive masterpieces of the Greek literature. It’s not surprising that students often are assigned to write an essay on this poem.

Brainstorm the ideas you’re willing to discuss in the paper and make a list of all the key points. Look through the essay samples represented below for inspiration or check the list of the Odyssey themes and ideas below.

• Symbolism in the Odyssey. What do Odysseus struggles symbolize? How can you compare the Odysseus trials and adventures to our lives? Can we say that our lives are similar to the hero’s journey when we’re on the way to achieve something we desire.
• Hospitality theme in the Odyssey. How do people welcome strangers? Explore the ways Odysseus was welcomed when he returned home and when he was welcomed by the king and queen.
• Theme of loyalty in the Odyssey. Think, why loyalty is important. Explain why Penelope and Telemachus stayed loyal to Odysseus even when they received the message about his death.
• Theme of revenge in the Odyssey. Why does the theme of vengeance is important in the poem? Analyze it from the point of view of Odysseus and Poseidon. You can also compare and contrast vengeance in “Odysseus” and Christian teachings. Think if it is acceptable to kill in the name of vengeance.
• The role of women in the Odyssey. Discuss how does the female characters influence the plot of the story. What roles do they play in Telemachus and Odysseus journeys?

A thesis statement is the main point of your paper summarized in one sentence. It usually appears in the introductory paragraph of the text.

Below you’ll find a list of the Odyssey thesis statements that you might want to use for inspiration.

• There are parallels between the Odyssey and Near Eastern mythology, especially the Epic of Gilgamesh .
• The central themes of the Odyssey are wandering and homecoming.
• Women in the Odyssey are presented as inferior to men; even goddesses are described as angry and short-sighted.
• The key symbols in the Odyssey are the bow, the sea, and the shroud.

When writing your paper introduction, keep in mind that you have to engage your reader and make them want to read the entire text. Avoid phrases like “In this essay I’m going to discuss…” at the beginning of the paper.

A good idea is to start your Odyssey essay with an interesting fact about the epic poem or a quote. For instance, if you’re planning to focus on Odysseus as an epic hero, you can use a quote about heroic qualities of a person.

Below you’ll find a list of the Odyssey hook ideas.

• “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” (Joseph Campbell)
• “Show me a hero and I’ll write you a tragedy.” (F. Scott Fitzgerald)
• “Nobody – that’s my name. Nobody — so my mother and father call me, all my friends.” (the Odyssey)

Regardless of what Odyssey essay topic you will choose, you should tell your readers about the background and event developments of the poem.

Analyze the content and provide connections between the events or/and characters and your essay key idea. Make sure that all the paragraphs are logically connected.

When writing the Odyssey essay conclusion, make it bright and clear. Restate the thesis statement and add your personal impressions on the poem.

After you finish your paper read it again carefully and add some touches you might miss during the writing. Proofread the essay and get rid of all grammar, style and spelling mistakes. Did you know that some professors can cut out up to 20% of grade because of errors?

Still not sure how to complete your essay on Homer’s Odyssey and get the best grade? Check IvyPanda’s essay examples below, written by professionals for your convenience!

• Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer: Review While the tale has various mythical and magical motifs in the form of Gods, Goddesses, nymphs, witches, and magic; one of the most interesting and a rather unusual aspect of the story was the astounding […]
• Father-Son Relationship in The Odyssey by Homer In Odyssey therefore, it is expected that the relationship of Odysseus and Telemachus is as admiring as it is; the father is proud of his son, who is courageous and the son is proud of […]
• Deception Role in “The Odyssey” by Homer He also pretended to be a beggar to test the loyalty of others and to devise his plan of overthrowing the other suitors.
• The Ghosts in Homer’s The Odyssey I find the ghost one of my favorite because of the hope and information he gives Odysseus.”The ghost reveals to Odysseus that Poseidon was busy punishing and killing the Achaeans “. From the encounter with […]
• “The Odyssey” by Homer Throughout the story, there is a constant struggle of the growing Telemachus to imitate the actions of his father and then eventually become like him that he comes to an end of his journey.
• Roles of Women in “The Odyssey” by Homer Of course, she is not a mortal woman as she is a nymph and is beyond the laws of human society. Of course, the woman is meant to be devoted to her husband and her […]
• Disguise in “The Odyssey”: Character Development & Athena’s Impact Athena also had to pour a sea fog around Odysseus to protect him, and then she assumed the shape of a little girl and showed him the way to the palace.
• Homer’s “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey”: Main Themes The Iliad and the Odyssey are anti-war poems, even though the actions in the stories are mainly conflict-oriented. They are anti-conflict because the aftermath of the fights is tragic, and every individual always engaged in […]
• Role of Fate and Divine Intervention in Oedipus and The Odyssey This is because while the gods are obviously responsible for choosing the path that one’s life is to take, it still takes the free will of the involved person to follow that path.
• Odysseus as Husband Being a good father and an excellent husband, Odysseus did everything he could to return home, however, there were a number of barriers, however, having returned home Odysseus killed all people who wanted evil to […]
• Gender Role Expectations in “The Odyssey” by Homer The reason is that many behaviors of these female characters are masculine in their nature, and they need to be further discussed with reference to examples.
• Women in Literature: Oedipus the King and The Odyssey Two major works of literature, ‘Oedipus the king’ and ‘The Odyssey’, provide some of the best examples of how the role of female characters is portrayed in different ways and how these women influence the […]
• Women in The Odyssey and The Epic of Gilgamesh In particular, the women’s power in the story was shown in their ability to influence significantly men, who were depicted as the wisest and most powerful beings.
• The Symbol of Weaving in the Poem “The Odyssey” The Penelope image is associated with the goddess of the house, the keeper of the hearth, and all households. During his wanderings, the goddess is the patroness of Odysseus.
• An Exemplary Hero: Homer’s “The Odyssey” The masterpiece describes the life of Odysseus and his journey especially after the infamous fall of Troy. One outstanding fact about Odysseus is that he is the main hero of the epic.
• The Meaning and Impact of the Closing Book of The Odyssey Critics such as William Merritt Sale argue that Homer’s purpose in creating the mythic poem of The Odyssey was to represent the inherent struggle of the human condition when faced with the choice between the […]
• Varying Moral Worlds in The Odyssey and Aeneid Some of the issues that differ between the two societies, as highlighted in the two poems, include marital love, representation of the underworld, the idea of fate, and pride/hubris. It is believed that the intention […]
• Divine Comedy and The Odyssey as Epics It is a poem about the supernatural more than about a hero, which is the first difference between the current poem and ‘The Odyssey’.’Divine Comedy’ has 14, 233 lines, the number that is almost equal […]
• Telemachus Journey From Boyhood to Hero: Homer’s The Odyssey As described by Arnold van Gennep in “The rites of Passage,” the concept of the rites of passage is a ritual event used to signify the process of transition of a person from one social […]
• Importance of the Book “The Odyssey” by Homer It is a book with a story that has lasted for ages due to its major themes such as the relation between father and son, the role of women, the significance of hospitality and the […]
• The Journey to the Land of the Dead: Homer’s “The Odyssey” Homer is regarded as a legendary Greek due to his great works of literature such as “The journey to the Land of the Dead”.
• The Plays “The Iliad,” “The Odyssey,” and “Agamemnon”: Understanding of Leadership Finally, the story of Agamemnon told in The Iliad and Agamemnon taught us that a capable leader must remain humble and self-aware.
• Sophocles II and The Odyssey: Book Analysis Penelope’s hand is one of the allusions in The Odyssey that offers the reader a comprehensive picture of who Odysseus was and how powerful he was.
• Culture of Ancient Greece in The Odyssey by Homer The Odyssey is one of the oldest and most well-known epics in the world. This can be attributed to Homer’s ability to describe the culture and life of the people of the ancient era with […]
• The Poems “The Song of Roland,” “The Epic of Gilgamesh,” and “The Odyssey” The emphasis on bravery and dignity in Roland represents a stark contrast to the characters of Odysseus and Gilgamesh. Therefore, Roland as a character is vital in the evolution of heroic characters in epic narratives.
• “The Odyssey” by Homer as a Vehicle for Creative Works One of the characters that can be interesting to examine in a more broad way is Telemachus. It works well to tie in a sense of loss and longing for a father with Telemachus, allowing […]
• Community Conflict in The Odyssey The Iliad heroes, Diomedes and Glaucus, provide a glimpse into the constructs of community and conflict. Such a story is that of Glaucus and Diomedes who recognized their ancestors as heroes, resulting in mutual respect […]
• Characters in The Odyssey: Athena, Poseidon, and Polyphemus In the epic poem The Odyssey by Homer, Odysseus encounters Athena, Poseidon and Polyphemus are surrounded by unique myths and occupy a distinct place in Odysseus’ journey.
• Deception in King Lear, The Odyssey and Gilgamesh The forms of deception in the book seem to come effortlessly to Odysseus, and the stories he tells throughout the book serve to protect him and his family.
• The Oldest Epics of Ramayana and The Odyssey Thus, the main similarity is the narrative about the difficulties of the protagonists, and the difference is the presence of magical characteristics.
• Heroism and the Spirit of Adventure: The Odyssey and Gilgamesh Interpretation In fact, the ancient epic is famous nowadays mainly due to the fact that some of the works are considered as the first official mentioning of a hero.
• The Role of Women in Great Epic Works: “The Odyssey” and “Gilgamesh” To summarize the influence of both women on Gilgamesh, it is possible to cite Kelley to describe Gilgamesh’s advice to him during one of the toughest period of the epic: When the gods created man, […]
• The Power of “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” Nowadays The significance of Iliad and Odyssey in the modern world can be explained by the fact that they are the first ancient epics, which have survived to this day.
• Plot Analysis of Homer’s The Odyssey Through the meeting of Telemachus with Menelaus, the author emphasizes the significance of hospitality as a primary value and develops such features and discretion, leadership, and heroism of the son of Odysseus.
• The Relevance of the Book “The Odyssey” The book’s central motif is the adventurous journey, the complete transformation of the king of Ithaca from the Trojan battle.
• Manhood in Homer’s Poem The Odyssey From the point of view of the author of the poem, the heroism of Odysseus lies in the fact that he remains faithful to his homeland, the island of Ithaca, nothing scares him in achieving […]
• “The Odyssey” by Homer and Its Legacy: A Romantic Vision of the State Odysseus is known all over the world as one of the most outstanding models of leadership anthemed in the literature of the ancient world.
• The Odyssey by Homer: Comprehensive Analysis of the Character of Penelope Penelope is believed to be the faithful wife of Ulysses and she stood really strong in his absence. She had a lot of persistence and composure, her image had been overshadowed because of Ulysses, and […]
• “Bhagavad-Gita”, “The Odyssey” and “The Epic of Gilgamesh”: Contrast and Comparison The sole aim of all the religions is to make the people realize the value of life and to make the most of the same but doing holy acts and by not indulging in undesirable […]
• Themes in Books VIII-XI of Homer’s “The Odyssey” For instance, Retief and Cilliers argue that Book XI of The Odyssey largely shaped the perception of Hades, or the Greek land of the dead, as well as of the Ancient views on death and […]
• The 11 Book of Homer’s “The Odyssey” The 11th book of the Odyssey tells about the trip of Odysseus to the Underworld. He expresses pity that Odysseus is also in the land of the dead and tells about his journey in Hades […]
• Comparative Literature: “The Odyssey” and “The Aeneid” The Odyssey and The Aeneid are some of the major epics created by the western civilizations. On balance, it is possible to state that the two epics share a lot of features as Virgil’s work […]
• “The Odyssey” by Homer Discussion With this knowledge, it is necessary to examine the role played by the other characters in the poem. On the other hand, Penelope knows that she is expected to remain faithful to her husband.
• ‘Homer’s The Odyssey’ by Bernhard Frank Literature Analysis Bernhard makes use of clear words and concrete examples as well as numerous quotes to articulate his belief that the cause and sequence of the events in this book were created on purpose by Homer […]
• Monstrous and Human Relationship in “The Odyssey” In each stage of the adventure readers are introduced to an ever increasing similarity between what is monstrous and what is man to the point that the line between the two blurs resulting in actions […]
• “The Odyssey”: The Relationship Between the Monstrous and the Human When looking at the relationship between the monstrous and the human in Odyssey, it can be seen that monsters represent, in many instances, the darker side of humanity.
• The Expression of Sarcasm in The Odyssey The suitors laughed and teased Telemachos of his struggles to defend the beggar. Odysseus simply examines the bow and one of the suitors mocks him saying he is a connoisseur.
• The Comparison of Gilgamesh and Odysseus This paper is aimed at discussing the journeys undertaken by the main characters; in particular one should focus on their motives of the protagonists and the way in which both Gilgamesh and Odysseus were transformed […]
• Greek Culture in Homer’s “The Odyssey” Therefore, a critical analysis of the story enlightens the contemporary society on the aspect of hospitality in relation to the people of Greece.
• The Role of Hospitality in the Homeric World-Odyssey None the less the Homeric world gives a glimpse of the noble men and women who live within that society, they appreciate and acknowledge the little favors and hospitality extended to them and in some […]
• Human Potential in Rig Veda, Genesis and Homer’s The Odyssey Human beings need to meditate from time to time to find out specific modes of behaviour they need to observe. The value of hard work is used to explain how human beings need to be […]
• Greek/Roman Humanities: Epic of Gilgamesh and The Odyssey The earliest works of fiction included the work of fiction the Epic of Gilgamesh that dates from the beginnings of civilization in Mesopotamia and Homer’s Odyssey, greatest ancient works of literature attributed to Homer.
• Analysis of Job’s and Odysseus The strong character traits of the main characters Odyssey and Job in the epic The Odyssey and The Story of Job help develop their plots from the beginning to the rise of conflict and their […]
• Gods and Humans in “The Odyssey” by Homer For instance, the journey of Odysseus back to Ithaca feature him as an important figure to Calypso therefore helping in building up the story as his return remains the center of all agony that begets […]
• The Concept of Moral Principles in Literature Works He formulated the trick of the great wooden horse to give victory to the Greeks. The prince was also supposed to strike a balance of generosity to the citizens.
• What Is an Example of Alliteration From “The Odyssey”?
• What Does “Odyssey” Mean in Greek Mythology?
• What Occupation Did Eumaeus Have in “The Odyssey”?
• Where Did the Cyclops Live in “The Odyssey”?
• How Is “The Odyssey” Book Written Based on the Flaws and Imperfections of the Main Characters?
• What Is the Land of Death in “The Odyssey”?
• Did Atreides Make It Home in “The Odyssey”?
• How Does Odysseus Feel About Telemachus in “The Odyssey”?
• How the Greeks Portrayed God in “The Odyssey”?
• Are Women the Source of Many Difficulties for Odysseus in “The Odyssey”?
• What Is the Main Message in “The Odyssey”?
• How Does Hubris Affect Odysseus in “The Odyssey” Epic Poem?
• How Does “The Odyssey” Relate to Life Today?
• How Did Odysseus Display the Characteristics of a Hero in “The Odyssey”?
• How Does “The Odyssey” Represent the Importance of Family?
• What Did Homer Want to Say in “The Odyssey”?
• Whether the Olympians Prefer War or Peace in “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey”?
• Did Odysseus Bring the Trouble on Himself in “The Odyssey”?
• Which Epic Has Most Relevance to a Twenty-First Century Reader, Virgil’s “Aeneid” or Homer’s “The Odyssey”?
• What Does “The Odyssey” Teach Us About Greek Culture?
• Did Odysseus Prove to Be a Good Leader or No in “The Odyssey”?
• What Can We Learn From “The Odyssey” Journey?
• How Telemachus Evolved From a Boy to a Man in “The Odyssey”?
• How Fate and Free Will Play a Part in “The Odyssey”?
• How Does Homer Use Suspense to Make the Story of “The Odyssey” More Interesting?
• How Women Are Portrayed in Homer’s “The Odyssey”?
• How Was the Divine Represented in Homer’s “The Odyssey”?
• How the Star Crossed Lover Theme Appears in the “Aeneid” and “The Odyssey”?
• What Is a Good Thesis Statement for “The Odyssey”?
• Why Does Odysseus Fit the Epic Hero’s Mold in Homer’s “The Odyssey”?
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The Odyssey

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Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on Homer's The Odyssey . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

The Odyssey: Introduction

The odyssey: plot summary, the odyssey: detailed summary & analysis, the odyssey: themes, the odyssey: quotes, the odyssey: characters, the odyssey: symbols, the odyssey: theme wheel, brief biography of homer.

Historical Context of The Odyssey

Other books related to the odyssey.

• Full Title: The Odyssey
• When Written: 8th or 7th century BC.
• Where Written: Ancient Greece
• When Published: The poem was passed down orally for many generations, but the Athenian tyrant Peisistratos established a committee to compile and revise Homer's manuscripts in the 6th century BC. The oldest complete manuscript of the poem dates back to the 10th or 11th century AD. Dozens of English translations have been published since the 17th century.
• Literary Period: Ancient Greece (pre-Classical)
• Genre: Epic Poem
• Setting: The Pelopponese and the Ionian islands in Mycenaean Greece, in the 10 years after the fall of Troy, circa 12th century BC.
• Climax: The slaughter of the suitors
• Antagonist: The suitors, Poseidon
• Point of View: Third person omniscient

Extra Credit for The Odyssey

The Limits of Papyrus. The Odyssey was initially recorded on fragile papyrus scrolls; some people believe that the length of each of the twenty-four books was determined by the length of a single scroll, which would break if it exceeded a certain size.

Son of Telemachus. The Oracle at Delphi claimed that Homer was Telemachus's son.

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1: Introduction to the Odyssey

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Summary of The Iliad (prequel), by Carina Garza

The Iliad is an epic poem attributed to Homer and is the prequel of The Odyssey . The Iliad begins near the end of the Trojan War. The war started because Paris, the son of King Priam of Troy, "kidnapped" Helen, the wife of Menelaus. The goddess Aphrodite was willing to give Paris the most beautiful woman, who at the time was Helen, as a prize for him acknowledging Aphrodite as the most beautiful goddess. Odysseus (Ulysses) joined a group of "kings" or Achaean warleaders related to Menelaus through blood, marriage, or xenia (see below) to besiege Troy, "rescue" Helen, and obtain riches, fame and glory.  The result? Ten years of war, many slain or wounded on both sides, and the sack and burning of Troy.  Odysseus then embarks on what he hopes will be a straightforward voyage home, but he spends another ten years of wandering before returning to find his own home besieged by a locust swarm of suitors.

What is The Odyssey ? Why Are We Reading it? By Jessalynn Bird

Why, in a class on reclaiming the classical past, are we starting with perhaps the most stereotypically “classic” works of “classical” literature, The Iliad (or at least excerpts from it) and The Odyssey ? Simply put, they are two of the oldest surviving written works of literature, along with the Gilgamesh epic, Babylonian hymns, religious and scientific writings from Egypt, and works from India and Asia. 

Both The Iliad and The Odyssey are, as Emily Wilson notes, deliberately “epic,” in that they “tell” ( enn-epe ) stories important to the collective memory of Greek-speaking world (Wilson 1). These stories were composed with a deliberate mixture of Greek dialects from various regions and different time periods (imagine Shakespeare rebooted with rap lyrics and a dash of sci-fi). The original poems were unusually lengthy and rhythmic with outré vocabulary (if you had to look up outré, the poem’s varied audiences also had to ask the meaning of some words). We, however, are reading a translation by Samuel Butler in prose form because we are used to reading our epic stories as prose narratives (remember the Harry Potter novels?).  

As the Coen brothers’ remake ( O Brother, Where Art Thou? ) acknowledges, in the end, The Odyssey is the story of a man trying to find his way back home, unlike other Greek myths featuring wondrous deeds (Perseus versus the Gorgon, Theseus and the Minotaur) or perilous quests (Jason and the Argonauts, the Caledonian boar hunt). But the structure of The Odyssey is unusual. The poem starts in the middle of an already running story with nothing much happening, at least in terms of external action. Odysseus is “trapped” on Calypso’s island for a decade while Penelope and Telemachus face a similarly frustrating situation in Ithaca. The author assumed that audiences were familiar with events from The Iliad , which is why you read some portions of it before coming to The Odyssey . After Telemachus begins his quest, Odysseus hijacks the narrative and tells his own story in flashback form in books 5 through 12. In short, The Odyssey is a Russian doll nest of stories within stories, with narrators staking claims and weaving specific narratives of identity and action.

Scholars agree that both The Iliad and The Odyssey have formulas and structures which testify to their origin as orally recited poems. These include hashtag-like catch-phrases (rosy-fingered dawn, wine-dark sea), epithets (bright-eyed Athena, prudent Penelope) and set scenes (putting on armor, banqueting, hospitality, leave-taking). Moreover, several bards or singers perform at feasts within the poem and are inspired by the Muse to sing the deeds of heroes. Bards were rewarded for their ability to recite and transmit stories which were part of Greek heritage. Originality was not necessary; repetition and formulas enabled the transmission of culture and memory to new generations. Memory (Mnemosyne), was mother to the Muses because for the Greeks, art, literature and science were complementary ways of both remembering the past and bringing it into conversation with the present.  

Researchers are not entirely sure precisely how or when these oral traditions and performances were written down, but it seems that The Odyssey was written down at some point between the late 8th and early 7th centuries BCE, when the Greeks adapted the Phoenician alphabet to record the Greek language sounds. Traditionally, the poems were attributed to one male author (“Homer”), but Samuel Butler argued that the author of the The Odyssey was female. There may in fact have been teams of oral performers and scribes who stitched together set-piece scenes to produce what then became known as The Iliad and The Odyssey (a bit like groups of writers working on the Star Wars or Marvel franchises). Once written down, both The Iliad and The Odyssey quickly become central to Greek and then Roman culture and education. After the Renaissance, they also became central to the “classical” education, accessible, with few rare exceptions before the twentieth century, mostly to the wealthy elite.

However, as artwork on Greek pottery and allusions by later authors attest, there were multiple versions of certain episodes in The Odyssey which circulated before and after one version was set down in writing. Greek mythology was profoundly influenced by oral traditions and written legends from around the Mediterranean region and the Near East. Moreover, an ancient fan literature with alternative endings proliferated. In some versions, Odysseus is exiled for killing the suitors. Or Odysseus and Circe have a son, Telegonus, who eventually killed Odysseus with a poisoned spear. Penelope was slaughtered by Odysseus for infidelity with Antinous (!) or she married Telegonus (!). Hermes was smitten with Penelope, seduced her and she bore the god Pan (Wilson 73-4). The same variations proved true for many of the legends alluded to by characters in The Odyssey , as you will see from the student-produced readers’ notes.

Regardless of whether there was a “Homer” who was the author of both The Iliad and of The Odyssey (or of only one, or neither), and when and where these epics were written down, there remains the question: does art imitate life or life imitate art? Do the poems reflect real events and cultures and peoples? Odysseus’ wanderings take him to places both real and fictional, at the heart of and on the margins of the Greek-speaking world: Troy, the cannibalistic Laestrygonians, “Scheria,” Ethiopia, Libya, Egypt. Yet in both The Iliad and The Odyssey , there is no single term for “Greek” people. Instead, Greek-speakers thought of themselves in terms of tribes or bands following a particular leader (Ithacans, Lacedaemonians) or larger regional groupings (Argives, Achaeans, Danaans, etc). Note that in the epic poems Odysseus and other main characters can communicate with whomever they encounter. It was not until the sixth and fifth centuries BCE that Greek-speaking peoples imagined themselves as “Hellenes” in contrast to “barbarians” who did not speak Greek (including the highly civilized Persians and Egyptians).  

Historians remain unsure if the cultures described in these epic poems reflect echoes of the Minoans and other proto-Greek cultures settled on Crete, the Cycladic islands and mainland Greece or the Mycenaean Greeks who flourished on the mainland and constructed grand palaces and cities. After the Mycenaean civilization declined due to unknown factors, storytellers living in a ‘Dark Age’ Greece (12th to 8thc BCE) composed of smaller political units told of hypothetical civilizations based on echoes of lost earlier cultures but also their living neighboring civilizations in Egypt, Iran, Mesopotamia, and Asia Minor.

The story of the Trojan War in The Iliad   therefore may echo memories of Mycenaean Greece and Crete, with their powerful warrior kings, rich palaces, and wealth built from trade, agriculture, piracy, and war. The impresario Heinrich Schliemann discovered in modern-day Hissarlik (Turkey) a site he claimed was the ancient city Troy and later, the location of Agamemnon’s tomb on mainland Greece (the golden mask which Schliemann attributed to Agamemnon still survives).  One of the many layers of the city mound he excavated was potentially constructed by the Hittite civilization, a powerful rival of both the Mycenaeans and Egyptians. Other cultures mentioned by the poems include the Phoenicians, widely renowned as seafaring traders and inventors of an alphabetic writing system the Greeks adopted. 

As reflected in The Iliad and The Odyssey , the late 8th century BCE, when these poems were written down, was a period of cultural exchange, trade, migration (voluntary or forced), and colonization. Greek-speaking cultures were expanding and making settlements in Libya, Southern France, the Black Sea region, and the southern coasts of Italy and Sicily. These epic poems therefore exemplify the way some Greeks thought about and rationalized their relationships with neighboring cultures through fictional staged encounters between heroes and partly real, partly imaginary cultures which were evaluated on a sliding scale from “civilized” to “monstrous”. Some of these cultures (including “Greek” cultures) are described in greater detail in the “World(s) of The Odyssey ” Guide. 

One of the ironies of The Iliad and The Odyssey , poems perhaps created “primarily by and for [upper class] men” (Wilson 37) and therefore appealing to that audiences’ insecurities and biases, is that so little is known about the lives of women in this period of Greek history that the poems are often used to reconstruct roles of “Greek” women. Although Samuel Butler, our translator, felt that The Odyssey must have been written by a woman because there were so many female characters in it, it is more likely that “ The Odyssey is the product of archaic male imaginations, questioning and defending the inequalities of male dominance within the status quo. The poem meditates on what women might be capable of, and the degree to which their potential can or should be suppressed” (Wilson 38).  The poem also expresses and contests Greek attitudes towards the powerful, the poor, the unfree, and “foreigners.” As we read through the poem we can ask ourselves the following questions: What sources of empowerment and meaning do its characters employ? What roles do they inhabit and how do they turn these roles to their advantage or become trapped by them?  How do divinity/humanity, gender, class and free/unfree status shape characters’ range of options for self-expression and empowerment?

Main Characters by Carina Garza  

For a more detailed chart of characters, see this handy guide.

Gods, Goddesses, Demi-Gods and Their Attributes, by Carina Garza

Master narratives: bards, narrators, history, myth, and lies, by brittany blagburn.

The storytelling done by the bards in The Odyssey is different from the storytelling done by any other group or person in the epic due to the fact that bardic storytelling draws artistic inspiration from the Muses themselves. When the bards tell stories, they are putting on a performance. Their goal is to capture the attention of the audience and provide entertainment. Odysseus comes close to the bards in this sense, but is not on the same level as his counterparts. His stories are attention grabbing and exciting because they are real, and he experienced them firsthand. However, Odysseus’s storytelling lacks a connection with the Muses that is essential to bardic storytelling. Another distinction that separates the bards from any of the other figures in the poem is that the stories they tell are often not their own. Bards tell of great heroes, deeds, and battles. The stories they tell are not about themselves and as such, bards are not personally involved. They are a third party that will recount an event with limited investment in how it is told or what is told. Whereas someone such as Odysseus has a very personal stake in the telling of the stories from their travels. 

Much of Odysseus’s travels from the shores of Troy to his home of Ithaca are recounted by Odysseus himself. He tells his story to his family as well as the people who host and help him during his journey in order to explain his 10 years of wandering and suffering. When Odysseus recalls these events, no one ever questions him. Instead, they immediately take him at his word. Listeners have no way to determine just how much of the tales that Odysseus tells are fact or fiction. Odysseus has the capability to embellish or completely fabricate the series of events that he lived through after the Trojan War during his retellings because none of his men are left alive to contradict him. He can make himself look however he wants by omitting or changing details. With that said, the absence of his men also allows Odysseus to truly become the hero of his own story. There is no one else around with whom he would have to share the glory.

Similar to her husband, Penelope is a skilled storyteller. She is able to craft tales that are beneficial to her needs without the suitors realizing what she’s doing for years. In an effort to delay her having to choose one of the suitors to marry, Penelope constructs a plan centered around her loom. She tells the suitors that she’ll wed for the second time after weaving a shroud for her father-in-law, Laertes. Unknown to the suitors, she unravels her work every night. For nearly four years she managed to keep the suitors at bay with this scheme by establishing herself as a trustworthy storyteller when she told them she would marry afterward. They trusted her because nothing about her story of wanting to pay the proper respect to her husband’s family seemed unrealistic or unlikely. Additionally, Penelope uses her talent for storytelling to put Odysseus to the test when he finally returns to Itahca. Unlike Telemachus and Eumaeus who immediately take Odysseus at his word after he reveals his identity, Penelope plays with the truth to ensure that her long-lost husband is truly who he says he is. 

In book 11, we find out about Penelope from Odysseus’ mother Anticlea and encounter a parade of famous Greek women. What do we learn about Greek gender roles from their stories and Odysseus’ reaction to them? Why are their stories combined with the stories of Greek heroes in the same book? After all, some of these “heroes” did some pretty despicable things which Odysseus doesn’t mention (see the reader’s notes).

In book 12, we have layers and layers of narrators: Odysseus, Circe, Calypso. Do we believe Odysseus’ tale? How does he craft his own image and rationalize his actions? Why are the monsters he meets in this chapter all female (Scylla, Charybdis, the Sirens)? What about the stories Penelope and Odysseus tell each other in book 23? Is Odysseus master of “constant self-reinvention” through storytelling, disguise, and deceit (Wilson, 62)? Would ancient audiences have approved of or been appalled by his verbal tactics? 

War and PTSD, by Marirose Osborne

The actual term “PTSD” (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is relatively new. It was only officially introduced by the American Psychiatric Association in 1980, and while the term's use has become more common, it is still known by other names. “Shell shock” was one, officially coined in 1915 to describe soldiers who returned from World War I, while “battle fatigue” and “soldier's heart” were others. However, these terms both had strong associations with war. Although many people believe PTSD only manifests in soldiers, PTSD can be triggered by any traumatic event. It is more common in war, but in reality can impact anyone. 

The Odyssey is an account that takes place about ten years after the Trojan War, but the actual effects of the war can still be felt throughout almost every part of the story. Menelaus for example, tells Telemachus that he has trouble sleeping at night and that "sometimes tears bring comfort to my heart, but not for long; cold grief grows sickening" (Wilson 4.102-3). Although the ancient Greeks didn't have the word for PTSD or psychiatrists to diagnose it, several characters in the narrative show clear signs and symptoms of it. The ancient Greeks understood the impact war could have on the mind and body, and they demonstrated that through their narratives.

Is it fair to use modern western psychological frameworks to describe ancient emotions?

Read one of the extension sources listed below.  Who seems to suffer the most symptoms of PTSD (if any) in The Odyssey ? How do the authors of The Odyssey describe the impact of war on men and women?

https://bmcr.brynmawr.edu/2015/2015.08.15/

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/qKBzp2rNllpqqQjL5K5Rw0/seven-emotions-that-no-longer-exist

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/article/ptsd-may-old-combat/

https://www.academia.edu/6897230/Post-Traumatic_Stress_Disorder_PTSD_in_Ancient_Greece_A_Methodological_Review

Journeys, Travel, and Change, by Jessalynn Bird

At the time that The Odyssey circulated and was written down, the ancient Greek-speaking peoples engaged in trade with most of the known Mediterranean world.  This brought them into contact with other cultures with whom they collaborated, exchanged goods (and stories and gods), and competed for trade routes, territory, resources, and colonies. Travel in the ancient world was hazardous whether by land or sea. Bandits and pirates ambushed the unwary and hosts could prove either generous or lethal.  However, travel also meant encountering other cultures and  languages and finding potential allies or enemies. It also meant broadened horizons, such that individuals were changed by the hardships and triumphs they encountered and returned to view their original cultures with potentially new eyes. The nature of travel differed with its purpose: marriage, alliance, trade, war, revenge, quest, capture/enslavement, curiosity/exploration, and return home.

Can, after twenty years, Odysseus truly return home? Why/why not? Explain.

How does Telemachus’ trip in the first few books of the Odyssey change his view of the situation in Ithaca and his relationship with his mother Penelope?

How do Helen’s adventures in Troy affect her relationship with her children and husband Menelaus?

How does travel to the underworld change Odysseus’ relationship to the living and the dead? Is perspective everything?

Why do Circe and Calypso inhabit islands and do not travel? What does this say about gendered notions of travel in classical Greece?

Why does Athena travel so much? Why does she often assume the guise of a male (e.g. Mentor?) when she appears to mortals?

Does Odysseus seem to be changed by his encounters with the cultures he meets or is he culturally impervious? How does he approach other cultures: as petitioner, trader, raider, warrior, potential ally? How does which role he inhabits affect his perception of a culture?

How do slaves’ travels affect them?  We encounter Eumaeus and Euryclea, both of whom are “foreigners” sold into slavery.  Do they come to identify with their new culture?  Why/why not?

What is home? And how do the heroes of the Trojan War return to it? Will they ever truly return to the homes they left?

Double Standards: Gender Roles Among Mortals and Immortals, by Jessalynn Bird  

As is glaringly apparent to any reader of The Odyssey , there were distinct codes of behavior for men and women in ancient Greece, modified by other factors such as “foreignness,” divinity, class, and wealth. Males faced specific honor codes and expectations, as did women, children, gods, goddesses, nymphs, and satyrs. Then there were individuals who crossed categories, such as mortals transformed into gods, individuals who changed gender or sex (Tiresias springs to mind), and humans transformed into animals, plants, or minerals. 

Having said this, there are several revealing passages in The Odyssey where direct commentary is being made or conventions upheld or contested. This often occurs through comparing and contrasting individuals of the same gender and/or status.

Who is the more successful leader, high-class male, and king: Odysseus? Agamemnon? Menelaus? The king of Scheria? Why? Explain.

Who is the better wife and queen: Penelope? Clytemnestra?  Helen? The Scherian queen Arete? Why? Explain.

Who is the better son -- Orestes or Telemachus?  Why?

Who is the better young unmarried woman: Calypso, Circe, or Nausicaa? Why?

Why does Odysseus find the tale of Ares (Mars) and Aphrodite (Venus) so amusing?  Are Calypso and Circe held to a different sexual standard than male gods and Odysseus? Why/why not?

Why must Penelope remain chaste but not Odysseus?

Who is a Monster? What does it mean to truly be Human? By Brittany Blagburn

During Odysseus’s attempts to get back home, he is constantly interacting with figures that are humans, monsters, gods, and anything in between. Throughout the poem, figures such as the Sirens, Polyphemus (and the other cyclopes), Charybdis, Scylla, and the Laestrygonians are clearly depicted as monsters. They appear physically different from the human figures present and their physical differences are what are used to separate them from humanity. Often, the monsters that Odysseus comes face-to-face with live outside of civilization. Nearly all of these interactions that Odysseus has with these monstrous figures lead to his men dying and further delays in their journey back to Ithaca.

Figures such as the Lotus Eaters, Cicones, and the Suitors may be human, but to Odysseus they come across as monstrous. The Lotus Eaters attempt to take away his crew’s will to leave and prolong his journey home. The Cicones fight back against Odysseus and his crew, leaving several of his men dead. The suitors are monstrous in his eyes because of their disrespect, the ways in which they blatantly abuse traditional hospitality, and their attempts to marry Penelope.

Then, there are figures like Circe and Calypso that are more than human but not quite definitely monsters in the eyes of Odysseus. These women behave just like normal women during their appearances in the epic. They sing, they weave, they act hospitably. The only things that make them distinct from women such as Penelope or Nausicaa are that they live alone, seem to possess divine powers,and assert themselves. Alone these things would not necessarily be enough for Odysseus to think of them as monsters, but when taken all together the women are a little bit monstrous to him. Calypso holds Odysseus against his will and tries to make him immortal. While the latter action does not seem to be too horrible, Odysseus did not wish to lose his mortality. As such, he would see Calypso as somewhat of a monster. Circe turned Odysseus’s crew into pigs and would have done the same to him if she could. She also manages to delay Odysseus in his journey to return home. Because of these behaviors, he would classify her as monstrous as well.

How do cultures use “monsters” to construct (in)humanity?

Which monster(s) pose(s) the greatest threat to Odysseus and his crew? 

Which monster(s) are surprisingly “civilized” or “savage”? How do the Greeks rate these two things?

Every hero needs an opponent who is an equal or superior match to them. How does Odysseus rate in comparison to the “monsters” he faces? Are his abilities, behaviors, and “civilization” inferior, equal, or superior to those of his rivals (as imagined by the poets and Odysseus himself)?

If Calypso and Circe are nymphs or demi-goddesses, does that mean their behavior should not be judged by human standards? If that is the case, how were Greek audiences meant to rate the behavior of the gods and goddesses mentioned in the poem and their dealings with mortals? Clearly the gods are not mortals, but does this make them monsters or something else?

Slavery and Its Impact, by Britanny Blagburn

In terms of the social hierarchy of “Homeric” Greece, slaves were at the bottom. They had few rights. Slavery in ancient Greece was not something that a person had to be born into. You could either be sold into slavery or captured. There were multiple different types of enslavement which included chattel slaves and helots. Chattel slaves were considered a personal possession that could be individually bought and sold. Helots were slaves specific to Sparta that were specifically linked with the land that they worked on. Slaves often worked in the fields, mines and quarries, the home, or as craftspeople. A slave working in the fields might be seen working alongside their master. Even someone with little land might have a few slaves to assist with agricultural work. A slave working in the home would be expected to cook, clean, and assist in the raising of children. The conditions in which a slave worked and lived varied widely. Slaves working in mines and quarries were subjected to much harsher conditions than slaves working within a home. However, slaves were considered the property of their master and were completely under their power. A master could do whatever they wanted with their slaves. When a slave-owner died, their slaves could either be set free or inherited by an heir. Slaves could also buy their freedom if their owners allowed them to keep money made via their labors.

Is there a difference between the way Odysseus and Telemachus treat their slaves? Odysseus and Laertes? Odysseus and Penelope? How does each member of the family differ in their treatment? Why?

Does gender affect the way in which Odysseus treats his slaves? How? Does gender affect the way in which the slaves interact with Odysseus? How?

Why is Odysseus so enraged by some of his female slaves sleeping with the suitors? Does Odysseus react with less rage towards his male slaves who did as the suitors told them? Why or why not?

Are there differences in how slaves are treated between Ithaca, Pylos, Sparta, and Phaeacia (Scheria)? If so, what are the differences? 

Why do none of the monsters or monstrous civilizations have slaves? Would Odysseus be less likely so see them as monsters if they did? Why?

Racism and “Culture” in Antiquity, by Marirose Osborne

The concept of race in The Odyssey is very different from how we would see it today (for this distinction, see the Worlds of The Odyssey Guide). There are, however, some conceptual similarities to post-colonial definitions of race as based on genetic heritage - for example, Odysseus describes Eurybates as a man with “black skin, round shoulders, woolly hair” (Wilson 19.246). He uses the physical description to set Eurybates apart. However, Odysseus also refers to Eurybates as “his favorite out of all his crew because his mind matched his” (Wilson 19.247-8). Unlike the modern era, race in Ancient Greece was less about skin color or physical appearance, and more about which culture or region a person was from. The Phoenicians, for example, are considered a different race (because their language was not Greek), while the Spartans, who speak to Telemachus, share the same language. These “racial” lines were considered strengthened by descent from a common ancestor. The Phaecians in The Odyssey are all descendants of Poseidon, while the Egyptians are from Asclepius's line. These ties are strengthened by marriages, for example King Alcinous and Queen Arete of Phaecia are both husband and wife and uncle and niece. However, even these were not guarantees of “culture” or “civilization.” The Cyclopses are children of Poseidon, but they are also cannibalistic one-eyed monsters. 

Although the various Greek peoples acknowledged their differences, they stood united against other peoples who they considered “uncivilized.” When the Greeks did not understand a people or their culture, they would lump them together. This happens several times in The Odyssey , such as when Egypt is described as a place of magic and mystery where “fertile fields produce the most narcotics: some good, some dangerous” (Wilson 4.230-1). Other “foreign” places are described in similar terms, such as Libya “where lambs are born with horns” (Wilson 4.85). While these may not seem huge, in Ancient Greece these would have been major markers of “foreignness.” In some cases the marks were small such as magic or using certain herbs or dyes. However in others this could be more extreme. The centaurs, for example, are often thought to be representative of the unfamiliar barbarian tribes while the mythical Amazons, thought to be a race of men-hating female warriors, may have been a distorted reflection of the Scythian peoples, various tribes that inhabited central Asia. 

What other marks of “foreignness” come up in The Odyssey ? Which cultures do they refer to? 

How are the various Greek cultures depicted in The Odyssey ? 

How are the various peoples described, is the language positive, negative, or neutral? 

Why do you think some descendants of the gods are considered more civilized than others? 

Why do you think the Ancient Greeks conceived of cultures that were farther away as part animal? Or as solely made up of women? 

Poverty, Wealth, and Age, by Carina Garza

In ancient Greece, those with the most power were the wealthy aristocrats who had political power. Greece was an agricultural society which allowed people to earn a living through farming. The wealthy male landowners had slaves, received an education, as well as their own fertile land. Some wealthy men did not have to worry about a dowry for their daughters or finding a good match as husbands. The wealthier the family, the better match the daughter potentially had for a husband (and her family could expect a hefty counter-gift or bride price from a husband and his family). Those in a higher economic class enjoyed better opportunities and more luxurious lifestyles (note how The Odyssey carefully uses clothing, household furnishings, gifts, and meals to hint at or depict degrees of poverty and wealth). 

Those in poverty in ancient Greece ranged from poor free Greeks to slaves. The poor could work for the wealthy, own their own home, perform manual labor or artisanal or craft work, sell and resell items as peddlers or shop-keepers, but typically did not own considerable land. For this reason, they were considered to have “low morals” and were barred from participating in politics. Some individuals experienced homelessness or had to beg resources and hospitality from others.  Slaves who worked in homes had a better working environment compared to the slaves who worked in mines. Slaves were relatively inexpensive, which allowed poor Greeks to own them as well (see the section on slavery above). 

Questions: 

How does age differentiate the way low class citizens are compared to those who are wealthy? Consider how Odysseus disguises himself as the beggar Icarus. 

Do we have the same standards of class system when it comes to age and gender? 

Do you think Odysseus feels free while he is on his journey home?

How does Odysseus treat Nausicaa compared to the other women? Is this based on her class?

Honor and Loyalty, by Carina Garza

Honor and loyalty were the two most important defining characteristics for cultures around the Mediterranean. Honor was more than pride, it was a symbol of worthiness. Honor is so important that it has caused people to fight and die to prove themselves. An honorable and loyal person was valuable to society and was held in high regard. Honor could both enhance one's privilege, respect and social status and was also tied to it. The poor and unfree were considered to intrinsically possess less "honor" and had to work harder to obtain it.  If someone were dishonorable, it adversely affected their privilege, respect and social status. Honor and loyalty were also gendered. For example, it was expected for a wife to be loyal to her husband, but not the other way around. In The Odyssey , Odysseus is honorable and loyal to his home of Ithaca, but he also has a lot of pride. Odysseus’s pride is what caused him to have delays and problems during his voyage home. Telemachus, Odysseus’s son, was worried about his family’s honor since the suitors overran their home. He knows that to keep his family’s honor he needs to search for his father who would permanently get rid of the suitors.  

• How are honor and loyalty manifested differently in different situations and depending on age and status? Consider the bonds between guest and host, between male peers (Telemachus and Pisistratus), and between owner and slave (Euryclea, Eumaeus, Melantho/Melanthus).
• Consider how gender affects honor.  How does Penelope maintain honor and loyalty--both her own and that of her household? Odysseus with his men?
• What happens when the demands of honor and loyalty to various individuals conflict? For example, Telemachus and his relationship to his own emerging identity, his mother Penelope, and his absent father Odysseus?

Gendered Emotions in The Odyssey , by Brittany Blagburn        

Tears and weeping.

Whenever Odysseus weeps in The Odyssey , his tears are linked with his long-lasting suffering and grief. He cries because he is overcome by his emotions. There is no way for him to control them and as such his body physically responds by shedding tears. Readers first witness Odysseus’s weeping while he is on Calypso’s island. He feels trapped and is convinced that reaching Ithaca is completely impossible. As such, he spends his days alone and openly sobbing over the way in which his tragic fate has played out. Even though Odysseus chooses to weep in front of Calypso, he is concerned about who he allows to see his tears. During his time with the Phaeacians, Odysseus actively tries to hide his tears from the King while the bard sings of the Trojan War. However, when Odysseus is finally reunited with Telemachus, he does not hold back his tears. Instead he cries in front of his son and eventually Telemachus begins to cry as well. The outpouring of emotion from the two men, and especially from Odysseus, is a result of how long they have suffered.

The instances when Penelope cries are often linked to her concern over her family. She weeps when Telemachus returns from his travels to Pylos and Sparta. As she cries, Penelope explains that her tears are due to her worrying for her son and not knowing if she would ever get to see him again as well as the fact that she did not know that he was planning to leave Ithaca. Just as Penelope weeps over Telemachus, she also weeps over Odysseus. Most of her Odysseus-related tears are shed at night when she cries herself to sleep. She also cries over Odysseus when he tells her his story about meeting Odysseus when he is disguised as a beggar. While most of Penelope’s tears are a result of her sorrow, after being told of Odysseus’s return and the death of the suitors, she weeps with joy.

Tears and physical demonstrations of grief also played an important role in funeral rites and attempts to propitiate the gods. It was considered fitting for both men and women to publicly and physically demonstrate grief at the death of a loved one (some cultures to this day also hire professional mourners). Tears could also manifest humiliation or a sense of powerlessness or tragedy, as we will see in The Iliad and in Euripides’ play, The Trojan Women . 

In Book 4, we see Helen soothing the tears of the men around her after they begin weeping. Why is it up to Helen to help the men around her stop crying? In what ways does her ability to do this challenge gender roles?

How is weeping expressed differently by different women (Penelope and Helen, Eurycleia and the female slaves, etc.)? Different men (Odysseus and Telemachus, Pisistratus and Menelaus, etc.)?

In addition to weeping being gendered, can it be expressed differently based on age and/or status? In what ways?

How do Greek uses of weeping differ from or compare to our own?

Pride ( Hubris )

Many figures in Greek mythology suffer from an excessive amount of pride, known as hubris . Often the fatal flaw of hubris can lead to the downfall of a Greek hero. Throughout Odysseus’s wanderings, he exhibits pride in multiple circumstances and usually suffers because of it. A prime example of Odysseus’s excessive pride can be seen during the episode with Polyphemus. Odysseus and his men have managed to escape and begin to sail away after blinding Polyphemus. However, Odysseus cannot accept the fact that he is not getting credit for this cunning feat. His pride compels him to make sure that Polyphemus knows who blinded him. Once Polyphemus learns who stole his eyesight, he is able to bring down the wrath of Poseidon on the ships that Odysseus and his men are on. As a result of his prideful confession and taunts, Odysseus and his men suffer. Their journey home becomes longer and much more difficult as a result of the hubris that Odysseus can never quite temper or control. The hubris of various heroes, particularly Achilles, is also a key theme in The Iliad . But is hubris gendered? Can immortals suffer from it or only mortals?

Current pop psychology encourages a healthy sense of self-worth and realistic assessment of one’s capabilities, talents, and weaknesses. If you were Greek psychologist examining any of these following individuals, who would you diagnose as suffering from hubris and to what degree? Antinous (a suitor), Odysseus, Telemachus, Penelope, Helen, Polyphemus, Athena, Circe, Calypso, Melantho, Melanthius?

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The Odyssey Essays

Within the four walls of the Ancient Greece, somewhere around 2,500 years ago, Homer’s exquisite power of words gave birth to one of the largest and most enduring of all time Epic, Odyssey. Odyssey is marked by an immense panorama of wondrous journey of a man through the lands of magic and mystery...

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The Odyssey In The Odyssey, Odysseus had to face many challenges during his travels; a few of these difficulties were a cannibalistic Cyclops, huge whirlpools, determined suitors, along with many hardships. Odysseus fought constantly to return to his homeland of Ithaca, but to accomplish this...

The Odyssey Report In The Odyssey , Homer uses guest-host relationships as an ethical norm against which behavior is measured. When the ritual is preformed correctly by guest-host, good results ensue. In contrast, the violations of this ethical norm results in misfortune. This idea was taken very...

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The Odyssey The Odyssey was full of wonder, power, and surprises. It is packed with epic heroes, creatures, gods, and goddesses. The gods, goddesses, and creatures had supernatural powers that effected the lives of Odysseus, his crew, and his family. Their actions proved to be powerful, beneficial ...

The Odyssey: Telemachus Telemachus recounts his confrontation with the Old man of the sea who could change his appearance in order to escape danger. Telemachus reveals the information which he obtained from the Old man of the sea to the reader. The Old man told Telemachus of the sorrowful tale of...

The Greeks, as portrayed by Homer, are a very vengeful people. Throughout The Odyssey, a theme of vengeance is dominant. These displays of retribution come from different entities for fairly different reasons. So why is revenge such a factor in The Odyssey? Fear and the overwhelming feeling of...

The Odyssey is the product of a society in which the dominant role was played by men. In ancient Greece, just as in the whole of the ancient world, and in America and Western Europe until the last century, women occupied a subservient position. Society was organized and directed by men, and all of...

When one ponders the Greek mythology and literature, powerful images invariably come to mind. One relives the heroes’ struggles against innumerable odds, their battles against magical monsters, and the gods’ periodic intervention in mortal affairs. Yet, a common and often essential...

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The Odyssey and Its Themes Homer’s great literary classic, The Odyssey, represents and illustrates many emotional and mental values. All of these values can be classified under three different main themes that are constant throughout the epic tale. These themes are: A boy’s struggle to...

Loyalty to family, community, and the gods is an important quality in the lives of ancient Greek citizens. These qualities are clear demonstrated in The Odyssey through Penelope, Telemakhos, and Odysseus. Penelope shows her loyalty in several ways. She shows loyalty to Odysseus by waiting for his...

Relationships in the Odyssey Essay Throughout the Odyssey, there are many relationships that represent love between two people. These relationships show loyalty, compassion, and the wanting to be near one another. Two of these kinds of relationships are between Odysseus and Telemakhos, and...

"There is no safety in unlimited hubris" (McGeorge Bundy). The dictionary defines hubris as overbearing pride or presumption; arrogance. In The Odyssey, Homer embodies hubris into the characters Odysseus, the Suitors, and the Cyclopes. Odysseus shows hubris when he is battling the Cyclopes, the...

The Odyssey and The epic of Gilgamesh (Similarities and Differences) Both The Odyssey and the Epic of Gilgamesh are two incredible stories written long ago everyone knows this but what a lot of people don't is that these two epics share many of the same concepts. Such as the nostro (the Greek term...

The Odyssey has much to teach us about the feminine psyche. The feminine psyche is the way that the female mind and soul react to and process situations. Females are generally faithful, giving, and respectful to their mates. We have an insight into the feminine psyche in several things that...

Homer, name traditionally assigned to the author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, the two major epics of Greek antiquity. Nothing is known of Homer as an individual, and in fact it is a matter of controversy whether a single person can be said to have written both the Iliad and the Odyssey...

Homer's poem The Odyssey depicts the tendency of people to ignore the consequences of their actions. Odysseus punished Penelope's suitors without thinking of consequences that he would have to endure. He did not acknowledge the consequences because that would prevent him from doing what he wants...

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In the epic the Odyssey by Homer (translated by Robert Fitzgerald) one of the most descriptive and best written passages in the entire epic is "The Slaying of the Suitors" (book 23 lines1-62). This is a good passage for many reasons, one of these is that it is a part of the story that has been...

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The Women of the Odyssey Many people regard Homer's epics as war stories? stories about men; those people often overlook the important roles that women play in the Odyssey. While there are not many female characters in the Odyssey, the few that there are, play pivotal roles in the story and one...

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The Odyssey Odysseus was always considered to be a great man and a great hero. He was known for his brain as well as his muscle. He was an epic hero of a narrative poem about the deeds of gods or heroes. He possesses qualities superior to those of most men, yet remains recognizably human. These...

Everyone has a home. Regardless of its location, it is a place of acceptance and belonging. In a sense it's where the heart is. Though in The Odyssey, the concept of home is blurry and for the most part incomplete, it is the most important thing to Odysseus, and he is willing to go through utter...

In any discussion concerning roles of male and female in the “Odyssey,” it seems natural to concentrate mainly on the evidence having to do with the situation on Ithaka, both because Ithaka is the most complex and the most fully described society in the Odyssey. All the women met...

A long time ago people believed that gods ruled the world. Each god was responsible for a certain element of nature, and all those gods are described in the well-known “Odyssey.” In this article, we’ll provide you with the way Poseidon was described in the poem. Poseidon was...

The feeling of self-confidence is a positive feature as long as it does not turn into arrogance. Hubris is one of such traits when people have too much pride in themselves, and this leads to disasters or problems. Odyssey is a great example of a character whose actions are sometimes ruled by his...

Recently, an approach of researchers to problems of the Homeric epic has changed significantly. In the field of their view, new problems are increasingly emerging. One of the widely discussed topics is a theme of hospitality in the “Odyssey”. From our perspective, this is one of the...

In the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Daisy Buchanan is an important woman character, but only in relation toga Gatsby dream. Ever since Gatsby had come back from the army, he had longed to have Daisy back in his life, and so everything he did and built up was in some way for her (e...

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An epic is best described by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as a long narrative poem in elevated style recounting the deeds of a legendary or historical hero. Epics like "Beowulf" and "The Odyssey" are perfect examples of this definition; they are each centered on the deeds and triumphs of their...

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Many of the tragic pitfalls of Odysseus and his men were from their own weaknesses to women. The temptations that the crew submits to always either anger the gods or distract them from their goal- returning home. In The Odyssey, by the legendary poet Homer, Odysseus and his crew desire to complete...

Pankaj Selvam English 10 Honors Joseph Campbell’s Monomyth Chosen Monomyth: The Odyssey 1. Hero introduced in his ordinary world Odysseus is a strong ruler of Ithaca (Greek city-state), however lacks experience in war. He is also the son of Laertes 2. The call to adventure He wins the Trojan war...

Joel Schain Period 2 3/28/10 Book 9: In the Eyes of Polyphemus This morning was like any other day. I got up to see the sun rise, and then I went into the forest to find something to eat for breakfast. Most days were quiet in the land of the Cyclopes. All you could hear were your own thoughts, and...

Reflective journal 1 The Odyssey Date due MB and ME: 23rd January 2014 at 8:30am – via Blackboard – – Submission to VeriGuide – Choose ONE of the following question groups and write a short essay, about 400-600 words in English or 700-900 characters in Chinese. (* A question may break down into a...

The Odyssey

The odyssey essay questions.

Argue against the claim that The Odyssey ought to be read as a tragedy because of all the pain inflicted upon its protagonist, Odysseus.

Although Odysseus' name means "Son of Pain" and he is made to suffer greatly before achieving his nostos (homecoming), the fact remains that he ultimately does achieve nostos. When he returns to Ithaca, he finds that his immediate family has remained faithful to him, and is able to reclaim his rightful place as the king of Ithaca. Although the amount of hardship he has had to endure may make such an outcome seem implausible, the implausibility is better explained by the epic nature of the work, rather than by calling it a tragedy.

Works like The Odyssey offer us insight into the customs and beliefs of the ancient cultures that produced them. Describe one such custom that The Odyssey makes clear was important in ancient Greece.

One example of such a custom is that of hospitality: it was thought that guests might always be gods in disguise, and therefore ought to be treated with the utmost respect. To this end, guests were often fed, clothed, and so forth, prior to the host asking after their lineage and purpose in their land.

Is Odysseus a just man? Provide evidence to support your answer.

Although Odysseus has character flaws and may not hold what we consider a modern conception of justice, he does seem to act justly in most regards. He only deceives Polyphemus after Polyphemus has rejected the custom of a guest-gift and eaten several of Odysseus' men; he only disguises himself in Ithaca in order to test his family and the suitors. And, perhaps the most important piece of evidence in favor of his being just, he only punishes those servants and suitors who wronged his household while he was away; he lets the innocent live.

Discuss fidelity in the poem. Was Odysseus faithful to his household?

Although Odysseus has many affairs on his journey home, the implication is always that he had to do so in order to progress towards home; there were many moments when it would have been easier for him to give up or surrender, but he never truly lost sight of home. (The year he spent with Circe might be seen as a counterexample to this; nonetheless, the fact remains that he returned to his quest and did not forsake his homeland). At minimum, it is evident that the text's notion of fidelity is not reducible to something as simple as sexual relations.

Discuss fidelity in the poem. Was Odysseus' household faithful to him?

Many servants of Ithaca betrayed Odysseus and sided with the suitors, but the "principle players" of his homeland -- the Swineherd, Telemachus, Penelope, Argos, and Laertes -- remained faithful to him despite his absence. This fidelity is symbolized best by Argos, who seemingly staved off death until he could see his master home safely. Penelope, too, could easily have remarried, and was under tremendous pressure to do so; yet she employed every possible means of keeping the suitors at bay in order to continue waiting for her true husband to return to her.

The Odyssey Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Odyssey is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What universal themes does Homer explore in the Odyssey?

Check out these themes below:

What do you learn about the character of Odysseus through the poet's introduction in Book 1?

In Book I, we learn that Odysseus fought in the Trojan War, that he has been on the island of Ogygia for eight years, that Poseidon is planning to make his journey home extremely difficult because Odysseus blinded his son, and that his Odysseus'...

summarize terisias' prophecy in the odyssey?

In the Odyssey, Circe sends Odysseus to Tiresias to advise him how to get home. The prophet tells him that he will survive the trip, but if his crew touches the cattle of Helios, they will not. His crew ends up eating the cattle and subsequently...

Study Guide for The Odyssey

The Odyssey study guide contains a biography of Homer, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About The Odyssey
• The Odyssey Summary
• Character List

Essays for The Odyssey

The Odyssey essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Odyssey by Homer.

• The Underworld in The Aeneid Versus The Odyssey
• A Musing Contrast
• Homeric Formalism
• The Evolution of Civil Justice
• Modus Operandi - The Ways of Greek Literature

Lesson Plan for The Odyssey

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to The Odyssey
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• The Odyssey Bibliography

E-Text of The Odyssey

The Odyssey e-text contains the full text of The Odyssey by Homer.

• Books 13-16

Wikipedia Entries for The Odyssey

• Introduction

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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