Classical studies NCEA L1 - Odyssey key terms

Key terms to know in the Odyssey

Xenia

The tradition of hospitality or guest friendship towards foreigners

Heroism

Include characteristics such as physical beauty, divine favour, high status, kleos, military exellence, ensuring justice and following traditions

Mentes

What Athena was first disguised as to meet Telemachus in book one

Eumaeus

The loyal swine herd that provided hospitality for beggar Odysseus

Athene

Patron Goddess of Odysseus

Poseidon

Sea god that is not in favour of Odysseus and makes his journey bery difficult

Hermes

Helps Odysseus get off Calypso’s island and gives him a potion on Circe’s island so that he doesn’t get turned into a pig.

Scheria

Island of the Phaeacians who sent Odysseus back home with their ships and gifts

Antinous

The leader of the suitors

Alcinous

The king of the Phaeacians

Eurycleia

Odysseus’ wet nurse and slave who is loyal and recognises Odysseus when she washes his feet and sees a scar

Lion

What Odysseus’ is described as when he kills the suitors