The Odyssey Test Review Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for The Odyssey test review.

Muse

The goddess of inspiration whom the poet asks for assistance in telling the story of Odysseus.

Calypso

The nymph who held Odysseus captive on her island and was ordered by Zeus to let him go.

Polyphemus

The Cyclops blinded by Odysseus; Odysseus blinded him rather than killed him so that Odysseus could move the stone blocking the cave's exit.

Sirens

Mythical creatures whose songs lure sailors to their death; Circe warns that men who listen to the song of the Sirens will be lured to rocks which will crash the ship, causing death.

Scylla

A six-headed sea monster who devours sailors.

Charybdis

A dangerous whirlpool.

Dramatic Irony

When the reader knows something that the characters do not.

Argos

Odysseus' loyal dog who waits 20 years for Odysseus and is the first to recognize Odysseus.

Eumaeus

The loyal swineherd who joins Odysseus in his fight against the suitors.

Philoetius

The loyal cowherd who joins Odysseus in his fight against the suitors.

Athena

The goddess who guides and protects Odysseus during the battle with the suitors.