CliffsNotes on

The Odyssey

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Poem Summary

Homer Biography

About The Odyssey

Summary and Analysis

Book 1: Athena Inspires the Prince
Book 2: Telemachus Sets Sail
Book 3: King Nestor Remembers
Book 4: The King and Queen of Sparta
Book 5: Odysseus — Nymph and Shipwreck
Books 6–8: The Princess and the Stranger; Phaeacia’s Halls and Gardens; A Day for Songs and Contests
Book 9: In the One-Eyed Giant’s Cave
Book 10: The Bewitching Queen of Aeaea
Book 11: The Visit to the Dead
Book 12: The Cattle of the Sun
Books 13–14: Ithaca at Last; The Loyal Swineherd
Books 15–16: The Prince Sets Sail for Home; Father and Son
Book 17: Stranger at the Gate
Book 18: The Beggar-King at Ithaca
Book 19: Penelope and Her Guest
Book 20: Portents Gather
Book 21: Odysseus Strings His Bow
Book 22: Slaughter in the Hall
Book 23: The Great Rooted Bed
Book 24: Peace

Character List

Character Map

Character Analysis

Odysseus
Penelope
Telemachus
Athena (Pallas)
Polyphemus (the Cyclops) and King Alcinous
Circe and Calypso

Critical Essays

Major Themes in The Odyssey
Literary Devices of The Odyssey
Major Symbols in The Odyssey

Study and Homework Help

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Essay Questions
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