The Odyssey background

epithet

short detailed expressions that are repeated

hubris

overbearing pride that leads to a characters downfall

author of the odyssey

homer

epic poem

A long narrative poem about a legendary hero that incorporates myth and history

oral tradition

stories that were told, and retold verbally from one generation to the next

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omniscient

The narrator sees all sides of the story and is non-biased

reciprocity

Mutual exchange between two people

hospitality

treat all guests with respect

arete

Greek idea of excellence, an ideal human perfection

invocation

a call for help or support