Odyssey Book 12 Study Set
Lines 76- 82. Based on this, how would you describe Odysseus? What words come to mind after reading this section.
Based on this, I would describe Odysseus as a persistent fighter and a loyal captain to his crew. He wants to save each and every one of his men, if he can.
What is the first thing Crice warns Odysseus about after he returns from the land of the dead? (MAKE SURE TO COMMENT IN DOCS THAT YOU CHANGED SOMETHING)
Circe warns Odysseus about the sirens that will be on his path when they set sail. She suggests that Odysseus' men will put wax into their ears so they will not hear the songs of the sirens, and be brainwashed. However, if Odysseus were to hear the song, he would have to be tied up to the ship. Then, he must take one of two paths. One path has overhanging rocks, rough waves, and Prowling Rocks, or Drifters as the gods in bliss have named them--not even birds can pass by them. Circe also mentions Odysseus will have a second path choice. On his second path he will see Scylla, a giant monster, and Charybdis, a gigantic whirlpool. He will then have to choose to pass between Scylla or Charybdis.
Think of lines 68-85. What is Circe's advice and do we think Odysseus is going to listen to it?
Circe's advice is to just flee the dangers that are ahead, allow six men to die and be mourned, otherwise Odysseus would lose all his men with his ship, and to pray to the gods for a chance of survival. I do not think Odysseus is going to listen to the advice. He is stubborn in his ways, and I think that he will try to find another way to save all of his men.
Consider Odysseus' behavior in lines 108-179. Do you think he is a good leader? Explain your opinion
No, I do not think that Odysseus is a good leader. Odysseus persuades his men to have hope, but does not truly tell them about the dangers ahead. He tricks them, not telling them the truth or what to expect.
How does Odysseus survive the Siren's song?
Odysseus is tied to the mast, and was more tightly fastened by Perimedes and Eurolycs, allowing him to survive the Siren's song.
How does Odysseus survive the dangers posed by the Sirens, Scylla, and Charybdis?
Odysseus survives the dangers of the Sirens by being tied to the mast. He survives Scylla by sacrificing six of his men to the monster. He survives Charybdis by not sailing close to the whirlpool, and instead, closer to Scylla.
How is Scylla described by Circe? (Comment that you added things to Quizlet!)
She is described as someone who has a newborn's cry, but is massive and monstrous. God or man, no one could look on her in joy. She has twelve legs that are like big tentacles, six serpent heads and necks, deep gullets (throats) of black death, and heads that have three serried rows of fangs. Her necks are half her length.
