The Penelopiad

Based off of the back of the packet

Why is Penelope filled with doubts?

Penelope learned about how everyone made fun of her behind her back and what rumors were being spread. She was also doubtful because of Odysseus’s lying tendencies and cleverness.

What is the spatial setting?

Penelope is in the underworld (speaking from the grave)

How do the maids view Odysseus?

The maids dislike Odysseus because he treated them poorly and killed them without good reason.

Why a skipping rope rhyme? What’s the effect?

It is a rhyme chanted by children while skipping rope. It tells a story in a unique way that brings emphasis and humor or playfulness to the tragedy of the words.

In what ways are these women victims of powerlessness?

No one took care or looked over them, to cry to, so they weren’t allowed to be sad or weak.

Has Helen escaped punishment despite the problems she has caused?

Yes, everyone loves her and praises her for her beauty, so no one wanted to punish her. Also, the men only cared about other men, so Helen was overlooked as a problem.

How is the process of finding a husband humiliating for Penelope?

She isn’t as pretty as her cousin Helen, so she is seen as “second place” or not as good.

How does Odysseus win?

He cheats

Why isn’t Penelope impressed by Odysseus’s boar story?

She knows that Odysseus is lying and isn’t telling the full truth, he’s only telling things that glorify himself.

What does Penelope observe about Eurycleia and her treatment of Telemachus?

Eurycleia is trying to take over Penelope’s job of being Telemachus’s mother.

How is contrast used in this scene?

Telemachus was born with much praise and happiness, while the maids were born with disappointment and everyone looked down on them.

What conclusion do they draw about class and gender?

High class men get more praise and respect than low class women.

How does Penelope prove herself to be an intelligent and substantial woman during Odysseus’s absence?

Penelope had to rule the palace alone without any help or instructions.

Does Penelope betray the maids or does she genuinely have no power to help them?

Penelope betrayed them by letting them get raped by the suitors for Penelope’s own benefits (hearing what the Suitors were saying abt her behind her back and hearing their plans)

Why is Eurycleia disloyal to Penelope?

She assisted Telemachus by letting him go on his voyage.

Why does Odysseus return as a beggar?

To test the suitors and the people to see who is loyal to him.

How does Penelope respond?

She knows it’s him but keeps it a secret for his safety.

How does Atwood characterize Helen in this scene?

Helen is characterized as selfish, self-centered, and boy-crazy

Surprisingly, what does Penelope admit about herself to Odysseus in this intimate scene?

She told Odysseus that she tricked the suitors with the weaving.

Why are the maids denied justice?

The judge thought that they weren’t actually raped and that if they were raped it still wasn’t related to the case.

Why do Helen and Odysseus often leave Hades?

They leave Hades to see the current world and go to Earth to keep living new lives.

Describe Penelope’s relationship with her father. Why does he behave this strange?

Penelope's relationship with her father, Icarius, is marked by complex emotions; he is protective and feels responsible for her well-being. His strange behavior stems from his deep concern for her safety amidst the chaos in Ithaca.