The Odyssey is my second favorite book I read in school when younger. Stay tuned to lean the first favorite. This is not my typical review, but below a list of discussion questions are listed for a book club.
Title- The Odyssey
Author- Homer
Rating– 5/5
Plot/Blurb-
The Odyssey is Homer’s epic of Odysseus’ 10-year struggle to return home after the Trojan War. While Odysseus battles mystical creatures and faces the wrath of the gods, his wife Penelope and his son Telemachus stave off suitors vying for Penelope’s hand and Ithaca’s throne long enough for Odysseus to return.
Quote-
“Ah how shameless — the way these mortals blame the gods. From us alone, they say, come all their miseries, yes, but they themselves, with their own reckless ways, compound their pains beyond their proper share.”
Discussion Questions:
What do you think is the symbolic meaning of the Greek gods and goddesses? Are they meant to be taken literally? If not, what is it that they represent?
Would you ever want to appear before someone disguised rather than yourself? What positives and negatives could result from that?
Do you believe in omens, and if so, what omens have you received?
Do you believe wisdom comes with age? Why or why not?
What types of transformations in life are most beneficial and what kind have you experienced?
What would be a symbolic meaning to the use of a veil in a narrative scene?
What is the meaning of humble and how do you see that shown in the world today?
Would you ever try to accomplish a goal for an entire decade? What is worth it to you to keep trying?
Would you ever visit the underworld if you knew for certain you could escape? Why or why not?
Would you ever make a deal with a god/goddess? Why or why not?
How much of our suffering is the result of our own choices and how much of it is beyond our control?
Cassie Swindon 