The Odyssey

Interesting Facts

• The main character, Odysseus, is known for his cunning and intelligence, which helped him overcome many trials on his way home.
• Odysseus spent ten years trying to return home after the Trojan War, making his journey one of the longest in literature.
• Odysseus encountered many mythical creatures and gods, including the Cyclops Polyphemus, the Sirens, and the goddess Calypso.
• Odysseus used cunning to defeat the Cyclops Polyphemus by introducing himself as «Nobody», allowing him and his men to escape.
• Odysseus was married to Penelope, who remained faithful to him for the entire twenty years of his absence, despite numerous suitors.
• Odysseus's son, Telemachus, also plays a significant role in the narrative, setting out to find his father.
• Odysseus received help from the goddess Athena, who often intervened to guide and protect him.
• Odysseus and his men encountered the Laestrygonians, giant cannibals who destroyed most of his ships.
• Odysseus visited the underworld to receive a prophecy from Tiresias, which was a crucial turning point in his journey.
• Odysseus returned home to Ithaca in the guise of a beggar to secretly assess the situation and devise a plan to rid Penelope of her suitors.