Heroic Myths:

Possible Essay Questions (if you did paper 6, you cannot write on the same topic for the final):

1. Examine the importance of song in both the Odyssey and the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? As always, make sure you give specific examples to back up your conclusions.

2. Compare and contrast the episodes in both the movie and in Powell that feature the Cyclops (Polyphemus in the Odyssey, Big Dan T in the 2 scenes in the movie). Also answer how the movie plays off the audience expectations based on the what happens in the Odyssey.

3
Odysseus/Everett meets very many interesting women both in the Odyssey and in the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? In your essay compare and contrast the character of Sirens (& Circe) in both the Odyssey and the movie. Make sure you also detail the significance of the similarities and differences which you find. As always, make sure you give specific examples to back up your conclusions.

4. Odysseus makes the following comment about marriage when talking to Nausicaa: "Lastly, I pray that the gods may grant you a husband and home, a household of peace and love, for nothing is dearer or finer than concord of husband and wife who share their hopes for the family, the envy of all their foes and the glory of those who respect them." (Homer, Odyssey, 6.180-185 in Powell, p 612). Evaluate Everett and Penny's relationship based on that quote. Use class discussion and Powell for the Odyssey.*