The Odyssey Flashcards

Flashcards covering key characters, symbols, and themes in The Odyssey.

Odysseus

Hero of the Odyssey, king of Ithaca, known for his cleverness and endurance.

Telemachus

Odysseus's son who matures and helps his father.

Athena

Goddess of wisdom who supports Odysseus and Telemachus.

Poseidon

God of the sea who is angry with Odysseus.

Penelope

Odysseus's faithful wife, known for her cleverness.

Agamemnon

Greek king killed by his wife; a cautionary tale for Odysseus.

Antinous

The most arrogant and violent suitor.

Circe

Enchantress who turns Odysseus's men into pigs.

Calypso

Nymph who holds Odysseus on her island for 7 years.

Eumaeus

Loyal swineherd who helps Odysseus reclaim his home.

Melanthius

Disloyal goatherd who supports the suitors.

Eurycleia

Faithful old nurse of Odysseus who recognizes him by a scar.

Laertes

Odysseus's father, living in grief.

Argos

Odysseus’s old dog who recognizes him and then dies.

Argos (Symbolism)

Represents loyalty and memory in The Odyssey.

Decay of the Kingdom (Symbolism)

Reflects the neglect of Ithaca under the suitors.

The Contest

Contest to string Odysseus's bow and shoot an arrow through 12 axe heads.

Death of Antinous

Shot through the throat while drinking; the first suitor slain.

Phemius and Medon

Bard and herald who are spared; they are innocent.

Disloyal Maids

Betrayed Odysseus's household and were killed.

The Bed (Symbol)

Represents marriage, stability, and fidelity.

Recklessness

Acting impulsively without regard for consequences.