Study Guide for Part I of The Odyssey

Flashcards covering key vocabulary terms and definitions from the study guide for Part I of The Odyssey.

Epic

A long narrative poem that tells of the adventures of a hero whose actions reflect the values of a nation or people.

Epic Hero

A larger-than-life figure who embodies the ideals of a culture and undertakes great journeys or battles.

Muses

Nine goddesses of inspiration for literature and the arts; Calliope is the Muse of epic poetry.

Invocation

A formal plea for help or inspiration, usually to a Muse, at the start of an epic poem.

Myth

A traditional story explaining beliefs or natural events, often involving gods and heroes.

Archetype

A universal pattern, character, or theme repeated throughout literature.

Oral Tradition

Stories passed down by word of mouth before being written down.

Tragic Hero

A noble character with a personal weakness that leads to downfall.

Tragic Flaw

The weakness or error in judgment that causes the hero's fall, often pride.

Homer

Ancient Greek poet, believed to have lived around 750 BC, traditionally holds that he was blind and recited his poems aloud.

Contending

Fighting or dealing with difficulty.

Harried

Constantly tormented or troubled.

Plunder

To take property by force, especially in warfare.

Valor

Great courage, especially in battle.

Nymph

A young, beautiful minor goddess of nature.

Immortal

Living forever; eternal.

Ordained

Decreed or destined.

Poseidon

God of the sea.

Formidable

Causing fear, dread, or admiration.

Guile

Slyness; craftiness; skillful deception.

Enchantress

A sorceress or witch.

Agamemnon

Leader of Greek forces.

Polyphemus

The Cyclops who is blinded by Odysseus.

Athena

Goddess of wisdom who helps Odysseus.

Dispatched

Finished; sent off quickly.

Carrion

Rotten; filthy.

Titanic

Massive in size and power.

Disdained

Rejected; scorned.

Laertes

Odysseus's father, old king of Ithaca; loyal and patient.

Telemachus

Son of Odysseus and Penelope; matures during the story.

Tiresias

Blind prophet who guides Odysseus in the Underworld.

Calypso

Beautiful nymph who holds Odysseus captive out of love.

Simile

A comparison between two unlike things using the words like or as.

Personification

Giving human qualities to something nonhuman.