Odyssey Final Test

symbolism

the use of an object, something, someone, or a recurring image to represent ideas or qualities

symbolism example

Argos represents loyalty and reunification - as in the reunification between Odysseus and his family as well as the loyalty of servants to Odysseus and Penelope's loyalty to Odysseus

allusion

A brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance.

protagonist

The main character in a narrative.

exposition

Point in the story when the reader is introduced to characters, setting, or essential background details

exposition example

The point in the story when the reader/listener is introduced to Odysseus, the protagonist

rising action

all plot events that happen between exposition and climax

rising action example

plot events that occur after the invocation and before the fight with the suitors

climax

when the protagonist faces the main conflict(s) of the story during an event that leads to the final solving of the problems

climax example

the point in the story where Odysseus kills all of the suitors

falling action

point in plot between climax and resolution

falling action example

Odysseus cleaning up after the battle in preparation to meet his wife

resolution example

when Penelope is trying to learn whether Odysseus is truly her husband and is ultimately reunited with him

conflict example

Odysseus trying to make his way back to wife and family - trying to make his way back to Ithaca

motif

a series of recurring types of events or symbols that reveal theme of a story

motif example

Odysseus and Penelope face many obstacles that prevent them from seeing each other for 20 years.

epic simile

elaborate description filled with imagery than compares unlike things

mentor of Odysseus

Athena

loyal servant

Eumaeus

tragic flaw

the character flaw or error of an epic hero that leads to the hero's downfall

ismarus

the first island Odysseus visits after leaving Troy

scylla

Female monster with six heads

telemachus

known for innocence, responsibility, and courage

apollo

patron god of Archery

Hermes

messenger of the gods

Tiresias

Blind prophet who advised Odysseus - possibly autobiographical of Homer

circe

enchantress who helps Odysseus and knows the future

Antonious

The most arrogant of Penelope's suitors; leads the campaign to have Telemachus killed. Unlike the other suitors, he is never portrayed sympathetically, and he is the first to die when Odysseus returns.