The Odyssey: Symbolism and Making Predictions, Part 5

Question 1 • FL-1001310-English 1 A

What character trait does Penelope demonstrate when she calls for the suitors to hold a contest? What other character has a similar trait?

Answer

She demonstrates cleverness, like Odysseus does when he tricks and overcomes foes.

She demonstrates hospitality, like the Phaeacians do when Odysseus lands on their island.

She demonstrates a lack of confidence, like Telemachus does when he fails to kick out the suitors.

She demonstrates a lack of self control, like Odysseus’s men do when they slaughter Helios’s cattle.

Explanation

Penelope’s contest is a clever way to delay choosing a suitor and to create a challenge that only Odysseus is likely to meet. This shows her intelligence and resourcefulness, traits she shares with Odysseus, who repeatedly uses clever plans to overcome his enemies. The correct choice is “She demonstrates cleverness, like Odysseus does when he tricks and overcomes foes.”

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