The Odyssey Book 17 Study Questions

1.  What news of Odysseus does Telemachos give his mother upon his return to town?
2.  What does Theoklymenos inform Penelope of?
3. Why does Odysseus wish to go to his own palace disguised as a beggar?
4.  How is Odysseus’s meeting with Melanthios on his way to town a foreshadow; how is it symbolic as well?
5.  While waiting outside the manor Odysseus spots his old hunting hound, how is this also symbolic?
6.  Describe three important events that occur when Odysseus enters the manor to beg.
7. Why is it important for him to show patience and self-restraint, even when hit and insulted?
8. Consider the advice of Athena to Odysseus. Agree or disagree. It is “wise” advice (from the Goddess of Wisdom). Support your answer in 2-3 sentences.