Book 13-17 Odyssey

Who delivers Odysseus to Ithaca at the end of Book 13?

Phaeacians sail him home.

What does Poseidon do after Odysseus reaches Ithaca?

Punishes the Phaeacians by turning their ship to stone.

How does Odysseus react upon first arriving in Ithaca?

Hides his identity and does not reveal himself.

Who helps Odysseus upon arrival in Ithaca?

Athena, who disguises him as a beggar.

What specific disguise does Athena give Odysseus?

Makes him look like a poor, shabby old man.

Why does Athena disguise Odysseus?

So he can assess the situation at home without being recognized.

What is Odysseus’ first thought about his homeland?

Worries about the suitors and how much Ithaca has changed.

How is Ithaca described as Odysseus arrives?

Rugged, wild, and overrun with suitors in his palace.

What advice does Athena give Odysseus?

Visit Eumaeus first and not reveal himself immediately.

Where does Odysseus go first in Ithaca?

To the hut of Eumaeus, his loyal swineherd.

How does Eumaeus treat Odysseus in disguise?

With hospitality, offering food, shelter, and kindness.

What story does Odysseus tell Eumaeus?

That he is a Cretan exile from Troy, a friend of Odysseus.

Why does Odysseus tell this false story?

To test Eumaeus’ loyalty.

How does Eumaeus respond to the disguised Odysseus?

Shows compassion, recounts his loyalty, and expresses sorrow for Odysseus’ absence.

What do we learn about Eumaeus in this book?

He is loyal, honest, and faithful to Odysseus, despite the suitors’ presence.

How does Eumaeus describe Odysseus’ home?

Talks about the palace, the suitors’ behavior, and how things have changed.

What small detail does Eumaeus give about the suitors?

They are wasting Odysseus’ wealth and taking advantage of the household.

What gift did the Phaeacians give Odysseus before sending him home?

Gold, treasures, and a safe journey.

How does Athena first appear to Odysseus in Ithaca?

In disguise, speaking to him as a young shepherd.

How does Odysseus respond to Athena’s guidance?

Listens carefully and follows her instructions.

Where is Telemachus at the beginning of Book 15?

On his journey back to Ithaca from Pylos and Sparta.

How does Athena assist Telemachus?

Ensures his safe passage and warns him about the suitors.

What danger does Telemachus face?

The suitors plan to ambush him on his return.

How is this danger foreshadowed?

Athena warns him to avoid the suitors’ plots and stay alert.

Who is mentioned as accompanying Telemachus?

Theoclymenus, a seer, and sometimes other companions.

What role does Eumaeus play in Book 15?

Remains loyal and awaits Telemachus’ return.

How does Telemachus react to his journey’s end?

Eager to return home but cautious about the suitors’ threat.

How do Odysseus and Telemachus finally meet?

Telemachus arrives at Eumaeus’ hut; Athena orchestrates the reunion.

How is Odysseus’ identity revealed to Telemachus?

Athena removes the disguise or signals him subtly.

What is Telemachus’ reaction to seeing Odysseus?

Shock followed by joy and emotional relief.

What plan do Odysseus and Telemachus devise?

To secretly arm themselves and prepare to attack the suitors.

How do they plan to test the servants?

By observing their loyalty and reactions, ensuring no one is disloyal.

What small detail about Odysseus’ appearance is noted?

Even without the disguise, he is changed by hardship but recognized by his son.

How is loyalty highlighted in this book?

Through Eumaeus’ behavior and Telemachus’ careful planning.

What items does Odysseus have with him when he meets Telemachus?

Only the beggar disguise and his wits.

How does Telemachus react to Eumaeus?

He thanks him for his loyalty and care for his father.

Where does Odysseus go first in the palace?

Into the hall as a beggar to assess the situation.

Who greets him at the palace?

The suitors, servants, and his old dog Argos.

How is Argos depicted?

Neglected but loyal; he recognizes Odysseus before dying.

How do the suitors treat Odysseus in disguise?

They mock, insult, and test him, showing their arrogance.

Which servant shows kindness to Odysseus?

Eumaeus, who continues to act loyally.

What small details indicate the suitors’ behavior?

They compete for food, insult the beggar, and ignore the poor.

How does Odysseus gather information about the suitors?

Listening and observing, noting their character flaws.

What role does Penelope play in Book 17?

Remains unaware of Odysseus’ return and continues to plan for the suitors’ reckoning.

How does Odysseus react to insults from the suitors?

He remains patient and does not reveal himself.

What test does Odysseus use on the suitors?

Listening to their words and observing behavior.

How does Telemachus react to Odysseus’ disguise at the palace?

Supports his father’s plan and keeps his secret.

What omen is mentioned in Book 17?

A hawk flying overhead, signaling the future return of Odysseus.

How do the servants react to the beggar?

Some are kind, others disrespectful; loyalty varies.

What does Athena promise Odysseus in these books?

Success in reclaiming his home and punishing the suitors.

What emotion does Odysseus feel when seeing Ithaca again?

Mixed joy, sadness, and determination.

What is the significance of Odysseus hiding his identity?

It allows him to test loyalty and plan revenge carefully.

How is Eumaeus’ loyalty demonstrated?

Through hospitality and protection of Odysseus and Telemachus.

What minor detail is noted about the suitors’ habits?

They waste Odysseus’ resources and behave arrogantly.

How does Odysseus react to Eumaeus’ storytelling?

Listens intently and learns about the current state of Ithaca.

What small detail shows Telemachus’ growth?

His ability to follow a careful plan with his father.

How is Athena involved in every step of Odysseus’ return?

Disguises him, gives guidance, and protects him from danger.

How do the books illustrate themes of loyalty?

Through Eumaeus, Telemachus, and recognition scenes.

How is Odysseus’ wisdom highlighted?

He waits, observes, and plans before acting.

What detail shows the contrast between servants?

Loyalty vs. disloyalty, kindness vs. mockery.

What small moment shows the suitors’ arrogance?

Their insults toward the beggar and disregard for hospitality.

How does Odysseus’ dog symbolize loyalty?

Recognizes him despite neglect, dies content seeing his master.

What preparations are made for the reclaiming of the palace?

Secret plans, gathering allies, and testing loyalty.

How does Book 13–17 transition the story?

From arrival to the setup for Odysseus’ revenge.