ODS - The Odyssey Module Overview

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The Odyssey Module Overview

Introduction Homer, The Odyssey Look now how mortals are blaming the gods, for they say that evils come from us but in fact, they themselves have woes beyond their share because of their own follies.

Mythology in general is a very broad and interesting topic. Many of you will have a general knowledge of some of the Greek and Roman gods and goddesses like: Zeus, Athena, Aphrodite, Poseidon, and more. Mythology is the basis for The Odyssey, so an understanding of the background of Greek mythology is important. This module will explore the Trojan War, the ancient poet Homer, and the epic poem, The Odyssey. We will also study the qualities of an epic hero and how this connects to The Odyssey.

Essential Questions

  1. What role does mythology play in our lives today?
  2. What were the beginnings of Greek mythology?
  3. Why should I read a classic like The Odyssey?
  4. If mythology is not real, then why do I need to study about it?

Key Terms

Your understanding of these terms will help you with the material in this module.

Myth: A story used to describe the origins of basic elements and assumptions of cultures. These myths were written to show a proper way of knowing reality. These stories take place in a time before our world came into being.

Archetype: A universally understood symbol or pattern of behavior. Ex. wise old man, damsel in distress, loyal dog, the warrior, the trickster or fox.

Collective Unconscious: Part of the psyche present in all individuals not based on personal experience.

Monomyth/Hero's Journey: Joseph Campbell's idea that the hero's journey is a basic pattern seen in stories from all parts of the world.

Epic Hero: A brave and noble character in an epic poem, admired for great achievements or affected by big events.

Epic Simile: Detailed comparison in the form of a simile that is many lines in length.

Epithet: A short, poetic nickname--often in the form of an adjective or adjectival phrase--attached to the normal name.

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