The Odyssey: Part 1 (Books 1-12)

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By 2Win
2
2Win
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 12 | Total Attempts: 16,809
| Attempts: 1,839 | Questions: 27
Please wait...
Question 1 / 27
0 %
0/100
Score 0/100
1. Circe turns Odysseus' men into what animals?

Explanation

In the Greek mythological tale, Circe, the sorceress, transforms Odysseus' men into pigs. This occurs when they land on her island, Aeaea, and are lured by her enchantments. Circe's magic turns the men into swine, highlighting her power and ability to manipulate others. This transformation serves as a test for Odysseus, who must find a way to rescue his crew and undo Circe's spell.

Submit
Please wait...
About This Quiz
The Odyssey Quizzes & Trivia

Explore key elements of 'The Odyssey: Part 1 (Books 1-12)' through targeted questions. Assess understanding of epithets, character actions, and plot details crucial to appreciating Homer's epic. Ideal for learners enhancing literary analysis and comprehension skills.

2. Who does Zeus send to Calypso with a message?

Explanation

Zeus sends Hermes to Calypso with a message.

Submit
3. Odysseus rescues hig pig-men with the help of who?

Explanation

Odysseus rescues his pig-men with the help of Hermes. In Greek mythology, Hermes is the messenger of the gods and known for his speed and cunning. He often assists heroes and mortals with his quick thinking and magical abilities. In this case, Hermes likely provided Odysseus with guidance or assistance in navigating the challenges he faced while rescuing the pig-men, using his powers to ensure their safe escape.

Submit
4. Who is Polyphemus' father?

Explanation

Polyphemus' father is Poseidon.

Submit
5. For whom is Odysseus crying and looking out to sea for on Calypso's island?

Explanation

Odysseus is crying and looking out to sea for Penelope on Calypso's island because Penelope is his wife and he has been separated from her for a long time. Odysseus had been away from home for twenty years due to the Trojan War and his subsequent journey back to Ithaca. During this time, Penelope remained faithful to him and waited for his return. Odysseus's longing for Penelope demonstrates his deep love and desire to be reunited with his wife after all their trials and tribulations.

Submit
6. How long is Odysseus held on Calypso's island?

Explanation

Odysseus is held on Calypso's island for a period of seven years. During this time, Calypso, a nymph, falls in love with Odysseus and refuses to let him leave. Despite his longing to return home to his wife and kingdom, Odysseus is trapped on the island, unable to escape Calypso's enchantment. The seven years he spends on the island are filled with longing and frustration as he yearns for freedom and the chance to reunite with his loved ones.

Submit
7. What plant prevents sailors from returning?

Explanation

The lotus plant prevents sailors from returning. In Greek mythology, the lotus plant is associated with the Lotus-Eaters, who were a group of people that lived on an island and consumed the lotus plant. Eating the lotus caused them to forget their home and desire to stay on the island forever, thus preventing them from returning to their ships and continuing their journey.

Submit
8. How long does Odysseus have to stay on Circe's island before allowed to leave?

Explanation

Odysseus has to stay on Circe's island for a period of one year before he is allowed to leave.

Submit
9. Who narrates once Odysseus meets King Alcinous?

Explanation

Odysseus narrates once he meets King Alcinous. This is because Odysseus is the protagonist and main character of the epic poem "The Odyssey" by Homer. Throughout the story, Odysseus recounts his adventures and experiences to various characters, including King Alcinous. Therefore, it is logical to conclude that Odysseus would be the one narrating his encounters with King Alcinous.

Submit
10. Who is responsible for sinking Odysseus' ship for Helios?

Explanation

Zeus is responsible for sinking Odysseus' ship for Helios because in Greek mythology, Helios is the god of the sun and Zeus is the king of the gods. Odysseus' crew members disobeyed his orders and killed Helios' sacred cattle, which angered Zeus. As a result, Zeus sent a thunderbolt that struck the ship, causing it to sink and leading to the downfall of Odysseus' crew.

Submit
11. How long has Odysseus been wandering the seas?

Explanation

Odysseus has been wandering the seas for a period of ten years.

Submit
12. How many of Odysseus' men does the cyclops eat?

Explanation

The correct answer is 6 or six. In Homer's epic poem, "The Odyssey," Odysseus and his men encounter the cyclops Polyphemus. After being trapped in the cyclops' cave, Polyphemus eats six of Odysseus' men. This event is a significant part of Odysseus' journey and showcases his cleverness in escaping the cyclops' wrath.

Submit
13. Odysseus' ships do what after Helios asks for payment?

Explanation

After Helios asks for payment, Odysseus' ships sink. This suggests that Helios, the sun god, is angry with Odysseus and his crew for not giving him the proper offerings or sacrifices. As a result, Helios uses his powers to cause the ships to sink as a form of punishment. This event highlights the consequences of disrespecting the gods and the importance of honoring them in Greek mythology.

Submit
14. Who is the King that Odysseus sees once reaching Scheria?

Explanation

Odysseus sees King Alcinous once he reaches Scheria. King Alcinous is the ruler of the Phaeacians, a mythical kingdom. He offers Odysseus hospitality and helps him in his journey back home to Ithaca.

Submit
15. Who is the wind king?

Explanation

Aeolus is known as the wind king in Greek mythology. He is the ruler of the winds and has the power to control and release them from their caves. Aeolus is often depicted as a bearded man holding a staff, representing his authority over the winds. In various myths and legends, he plays a significant role in controlling the winds to assist or hinder heroes on their quests. Therefore, Aeolus is the correct answer to the question "Who is the wind king?"

Submit
16. What two things do the men want to take from the Cyclop's cave?

Explanation

The men want to take sheep and cheese from the Cyclop's cave.

Submit
17. Where is Crice's home?

Explanation

Crice's home is in Aeaea.

Submit
18. Odysseus goes to the Land of the Dead to see whom?

Explanation

Odysseus goes to the Land of the Dead to see Tiresias. In Greek mythology, Tiresias was a blind prophet who possessed the ability to communicate with the dead. Odysseus seeks Tiresias' guidance and wisdom on his journey back home to Ithaca. Tiresias provides him with important prophecies and advice, helping Odysseus navigate through various challenges and obstacles. By visiting the Land of the Dead and consulting Tiresias, Odysseus gains valuable insights that ultimately aid him in his quest to return to his homeland.

Submit
19. What does Homer compare Scylla's capture of Odysseus' men to?

Explanation

Homer compares Scylla's capture of Odysseus' men to fishing. This comparison implies that just as a fisherman catches fish in his net, Scylla captures the men with her multiple heads and devours them. The use of this comparison helps to emphasize the sudden and unexpected nature of Scylla's attack, as well as the helplessness of Odysseus' men in the face of her power.

Submit
20. What epithet is used for Muse in the very beginning?

________ __ ______

Explanation

The epithet used for the Muse in the very beginning is "Daughter of Zeus." This suggests that the Muse is a divine being, specifically the offspring of the king of the gods, Zeus. This epithet highlights the Muse's importance and divine origin, implying that she possesses great knowledge, inspiration, and artistic abilities.

Submit
21. Where does Odysseus go after leaving Calypso's island?

Explanation

After leaving Calypso's island, Odysseus goes to Scheria.

Submit
22. How many men does Odysseus lose to the Cicones?

Explanation

Odysseus loses seventy-two men to the Cicones.

Submit
23. What epithet is used for Odysseus when he is with King Alcinous?

Explanation

The epithet "Son of Laertes" is used for Odysseus when he is with King Alcinous. This title refers to Odysseus' lineage, as Laertes is his father. It highlights Odysseus' noble heritage and adds to his prestige and status as a hero. This epithet also serves as a reminder of Odysseus' identity and his connection to his homeland, Ithaca.

Submit
24. What name does Odysseus give to the cyclops?

Explanation

Odysseus gives the name "Nohbdy" to the cyclops. This is a clever play on words, as when the cyclops asks who has blinded him, Odysseus responds with "Nohbdy." By giving this name, Odysseus is able to deceive the cyclops and avoid retaliation. The name "Nohbdy" sounds similar to "nobody," making it seem like there is no one to blame for the cyclops' injury. This cunning trick allows Odysseus and his men to escape from the cyclops' cave. 
“Noman” is an older or more literal-sounding English version, especially found in:



  • 19th-century or early 20th-century translations (e.g., by Samuel Butler, Alexander Pope).




  • Translations that aim for a more archaic or poetic tone.

Submit
25. What epithet is used for Odysseus in the very beginning? 

_______ _____ ______

Explanation

In the very beginning, Odysseus is referred to as "Odysseus the wonder." This epithet suggests that Odysseus is a remarkable and extraordinary individual. It highlights his exceptional qualities, skills, and achievements, portraying him as someone who is admired and revered by others. The use of the word "wonder" implies that Odysseus is not only impressive but also mysterious and captivating, adding an air of intrigue to his character.

Submit
26. Calypso decides to let Odysseus go.

Explanation

She is ORDERED to let him go, not of her own decision.

Submit
27. These are fierce cannibals (this won't be graded cause of spelling...)

Explanation

The term "Laestrygones" refers to a group of fierce cannibals. This answer suggests that the Laestrygones are the correct answer to the question, indicating that they are the group of cannibals being referred to in the given statement.

Submit
View My Results

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jul 10, 2025 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Jul 10, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Jan 18, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    2Win
Cancel
  • All
    All (27)
  • Unanswered
    Unanswered ()
  • Answered
    Answered ()
Circe turns Odysseus' men into what animals?
Who does Zeus send to Calypso with a message?
Odysseus rescues hig pig-men with the help of who?
Who is Polyphemus' father?
For whom is Odysseus crying and looking out to sea for on Calypso's...
How long is Odysseus held on Calypso's island?
What plant prevents sailors from returning?
How long does Odysseus have to stay on Circe's island before allowed...
Who narrates once Odysseus meets King Alcinous?
Who is responsible for sinking Odysseus' ship for Helios?
How long has Odysseus been wandering the seas?
How many of Odysseus' men does the cyclops eat?
Odysseus' ships do what after Helios asks for payment?
Who is the King that Odysseus sees once reaching Scheria?
Who is the wind king?
What two things do the men want to take from the Cyclop's cave?
Where is Crice's home?
Odysseus goes to the Land of the Dead to see whom?
What does Homer compare Scylla's capture of Odysseus' men to?
What epithet is used for Muse in the very beginning?________ __ ______
Where does Odysseus go after leaving Calypso's island?
How many men does Odysseus lose to the Cicones?
What epithet is used for Odysseus when he is with King Alcinous?
What name does Odysseus give to the cyclops?
What epithet is used for Odysseus in the very beginning? _______...
Calypso decides to let Odysseus go.
These are fierce cannibals (this won't be graded cause of spelling...)
Alert!

Advertisement