Study Questions
The following questions are offered to you as an optional guide to enhance your textual
understanding of your first classic in the course. They are designed to help you get a grasp
of the storyline and essential details as you move through each of the seven selected books.
If at any point you feel totally drawn into the world of Odysseus, and prefer not to stop at
each step to read yet another study question, do feel free to do so.
The questions on Books 1 and 2 are focused on smaller sections, with line numbers
provided so you will know where to find the answer. From Book 5 and onwards, you may
have picked up speed and confidence with your reading, and fewer and broader questions
are posed without line reference. Your teacher may or may not make use of some of these
questions in class, which will be guided mainly by the three sets of Focus Questions
given at the end of this study guide.
1
4. Why is it difficult for Telemachus to settle the problem brought by his mother and the
suitors? (1:140-151)
5. What sign was sent by Zeus and how did the suitors respond to it? Do the suitors have
strong reasons for refusing to leave and continuing to court Penelope? (1:162-279)
6. Has Telemachus indeed shown himself to be Odysseuss son in this book? (1:290-
458)
2
Book 23: Penelope tests Odysseus
1. Why did Penelope refuse to believe her husband had come home?
2. What role did Telemachus try to play in the reunion between his parents? Did he
succeed?
3. How did Penelope test Odysseus? From the test, who would you say was the more
cunning hero--Penelope or Odysseus?
4. What can you say about the relation between Penelope and Odysseus? What made
Odysseus come home to her?