The Odyssey Book VII

Antonio CarolloHonors Literature and Composition Period 7

Ms. RubanoDecember 6, 2013

Main CharactersOdysseus- Protagonist, originally washed up on the

shore of Phaiakia after Poseidon’s attackNausikaa- Phaecian Princess who falls in love with

Odysseus after their encounter from the river bank.

Athena- Greek Goddess of Wisdom who takes different roles for guiding Odysseus.

Arête-Queen of Phaiakia, known to be very wise and holds high power and respect (Descendant of Poseidon)

Alkinoos- King of Phaiakia(Descendant of Poseidon)

SettingPhaiakia, home of the PhaeciansBeautiful Phaecian Palace

The residence of Nausicaa , Arête, and Alcinous

PlotOdysseus is approached by Athena in her young girl

persona, after praying for her in the grove.Athena guides Odysseus to the palace, where

Nausikaa and the King and Queen reside.Odysseus is given a protective mist for protection of

the inhabitants. Very Xenophobic individualsThe palace they arrive to is a masterpiece, with miles

of fresh goods and amazing outside and inside architecture.

There is a private banquet hosted by the Arête and Alkinoos, in which it is filled with the most powerful individuals of Phaiakia.

Plot (2)Odysseus’ protective mist was broken once entering

the castle, after a noble man spotted the mist.The banquet continuedAfter, Odysseus begged to the King and Queen for ships

back to Ithaca, all funded by the King.Alkinoos and Arête ask how Odysseus made it to

Phaiakia.Odysseus tells his experiences from departing

Calypso’s island after 8 years, to nearly dying from Poseidon’s attack on sea.

Moved by his story, Alkinoos, grants Odysseus his request for deportation the next morning to Ithaca.

Main IdeaBook VII is considered a “bridge”Before, the story only mentioned Odysseus’

high risk conflicts to get home.After Book VII, Odysseus isn't on the brink of

dying, but he now needs to face temptations and conflicts that are emotionally stressful.

(Ex): His relationship with NausikaaBook VII also mentions the role of power for

both Arête and Alkinoos.

Critical Analysis- The Power of WomenThe power of Arête and Nausikaa are

introduced in Book VII.(Ex)- Odysseus bowing to Arête when they

are both confronted together.“Who again is master—Queen Arête or King

Alkinoos? Nausikaa knows well enough how to answer this question,” (Butler 1).

*Quote explaining Arête.*My personal criticisms.

Critical Analysis- Finally Interpreting Odysseus as a Hero Prior Book VII- never mentioned Odysseus/ only showcased life

risking hardships.Not really portrayed as a Homeric hero, except for bravery.I feel that Book VII is also a “bridge” in forming Odysseus as a

Homeric hero. Before- he constantly needs to be saved for lifeAfter- He now holds more responsibility for staying alive, now

that he has a template to work on. “Odysseus's personality and reputation at best are poised, as it

were, on a narrow edge between Aristotelian faults of excess and deficiency. Poised between rashness and timorousness, he is prudently brave; and at his best, wise,” (Stanford 1).

(In text quote)

Video Linkhttp://

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxYdxYfgFa8