Blogger #20 - Samuel Miller - Period 2 - 12/3/20 - Day A

Aim: How can an understanding of Greek myths and heroes prepare us for our examination of Homer’s Epic poem, The Odyssey

Do Now: Today’s lesson covered the meaning of Hero both in the times of the ancient Greek civilization and today. The goal partly was to gain an appreciation of the meaning both today and during ancient Greece. Understanding the meaning of hero in Greece would also help us understand the motivation behind the epic poem The Odyssey. Of significance was that the meaning we may have today of heroes--and those we revere as heroes--may not provide an accurate reflection of the meaning during the time of Ancient Greece. A better understanding of the meaning of Hero could allow for a better appreciation of the Odyssey as it was meant to be understood at the time it was written.

We separated in groups to discuss what we felt were some of the qualities of a hero.  In our group we discussed how courage was an important quality of a hero. 

The type of courage we discussed was that which was associated with fear of loss of life or significant harm. We felt that this type of unusual courage to face death was an important heroic quality. Additionally, we discussed the importance of how courage should also be associated with selflessness for someone else or for others such as we sometimes see in those fighting fires or in our police who protect us or our military who defend our country. We spoke about heroes in the theaters such as the avengers who have superhuman strength or powers. These powers too are tied to doing good for many others. From our group discussion we came to a working definition of courage as the following: Displaying unusual selfless courage in the face of significant harm or death for someone else or others 

We returned to class to expand our knowledge of the meaning of hero and compare it to the meaning of the word in Ancient Greece and, in particular, how this applies to Homer’s great epic poem. We discussed the Odyssey as a road map to the very specific definition of hero in Ancient Greece. Some of the features of this epic poem provided not just a method to identify the meaning of hero but the role of the hero in both the Greek Culture and the reason for its use in oral myths as guide to the greek national identity at that time. The definition of hero with respect to our understanding of the Greek Culture was expanded to include important details such as that the hero was human with flaws as is Odysseus but also with, if not superhuman strength, unique strength and courage. This courage is tested not with a single act but with many obstacles and in the setting of epic battles initiated often by actual Gods that controlled the heavens, the sea and the underworld. Homer’s Epic begins with Odysseus’ journey in the middle of these travails and uses flashbacks to provide a better understanding. We therefore are given a picture of a hero with a more distinct definition as someone with unique characteristics who must face many obstacles while trying to achieve his quest to return to his family (in this case). The hero’s world consists of real Gods who put obstacles in his way or sometimes aid in his achievement. The hero is also part of a mosaic that defines the greek culture including their gods, their morals and their ideals regarding loyalty, faith and national identity.

We also discussed how religion and the bible can also be compared and understood with the Ancient Greek’s use of myths and epics such as the Odyssey to define a people, a moral vision and an identity to frame a way of life. In the bible we see how in this case one God is involved in the deliverance of a national moral vision with the ten commandments. There are also epic battles and struggles as Moses delivers the Jewish people out of slavery.  And Moses too must deal with many obstacles along the way. And as the ancient Greeks considered The Iliad and Odyssey as the “cornerstone” of their civilization, we see that the Bible has also been the cornerstone of the Judeo-Christian civilization. 

Reflection: The group and class discussion helped expand our understanding of the importance of the term Hero as far more than simply someone with unique courage and selflessness but as a means to a national or cultural identity. The history of the meaning of hero in its context of the origin or meaning of a culture such as with Ancient Greece provides a more broad definition that is not simply someone we admire because of characteristics that can also be ascribed to a “hero”. Of course, there are some people I admire for their courage and selflessness, some very close to me, but I feel I have a better definition of Hero now with regard to its significance in the identification of a people and its culture and a reflection of its ideals and morals.

Life update and the pandemic: It’s difficult to provide a life update without a discussion of the impact of the pandemic on our lives. The loss of interaction with friends other than through my phone or with occasional after school visits has been difficult. I have begun to use free time to start learning languages and chess. The pandemic has also opened my eyes to the control our government has on our lives. It seems the fear of the pandemic has led to a society that is much more about control for protection and less about freedom. Restaurants are closed and those that try to open--especially in Staten Island--face consequences as if they in fact are criminals. I recently visited Florida during our vacation where there is very little of this type of government control, and there is a more relaxed atmosphere. I don’t really know which approach is right, and it would be interesting to learn in more detail about the rationale for some of the rules and why in one area of our country there appears to be fewer rules. Could it have something to do with the closeness of people in New York and the colder weather?  

It is also interesting to note that, with the pandemic, the media has defined a new crop of heroes. The medical professionals who face the front lines dealing with patients with Covid, the grocery store packers and cashiers who deal with the public everyday and face risk for infection, the waiters and waitresses as well. This use of the word hero is a reminder then of the beginning of our class in that it reflects a diluting of the word hero into almost any profession that faces danger--and in particular a danger that has been front and center in our society for the last year.

Blogger #3 - Emily Chen - Period 2 - 1/4/2020 - Day A

 LAND OF THE DEAD

Aim: How does the episode of "The Land of the Dead" further our understanding of 

Odysseus as the epic hero?

Do Now: What are the cultural traditions we use to honor the dead? Consider your culture and/or religion. What do you and your family do in order to mourn the passing of a loved one?

In our class, the way students commemorated the dead was very similar. Of course, funerals were hosted to officially say farewell. Occasionally, students would pray to the deceased, and burn various objects for the purpose of aiding a loved one in the afterlife. For instance, gold paper would be burned because it represents money. Personally, I’ve never lost a family member, so I’ve never had to mourn. However, if it does happen, my culture honors the dead during the Qingming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, as shown in the image. (Enrichment Resource: http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier)

Notes For The Day:

The class discussed death in Greek Mythology. After one passed away, the soul would go on a journey to the Underworld, ruled by Hades and Persophone. Depending on the choices made in life, the soul would either experience a state of happiness in Elysium or receive punishment in Tartarus. Students watched a video that deepened our understanding of Hades’ kingdom. It was a “somber location” divided into 3 regions and filled with purposeless souls. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VEbWU3izcE&feature=share&ab_channel=SeeUinHistory%2FMythology) Furthermore, students learned about Greek traditions of honoring the dead. Burial rituals were held to prevent souls from being trapped between worlds. The existence of the dead was reliant on the living’s ability to commemorate them. (https://www.ancient.eu/article/29/the-after-life-in-ancient-greece/)

Students spirit-read “The Land of the Dead.” Once Odysseus arrived at the land of the Cimmerians, libations and sacrifices were offered to the spirits. Elpenor, a young shipmate who tragically passed away in Aeaea, appeared, imploring Odysseus to commemorate him by performing an official burial. Anticlea, Odysseus’ mother, appeared as well, but he prioritized the spirit of Tiresias. The prophet informed Odysseus that Poseidon is punishing the Achaeans for harming Polyphemus, and says: A) The journey to Ithaca will be full of obstacles, B) Do not to consume the cattle of Helios, C) Be prepared for the chaotic situation at home, D) You’ll commit murder. Students discussed the story by responding to a series of questions. 

1. As Odysseus prepares to meet the dead, he states, “Then I addressed the blurred and breathless dead, vowing to slaughter my best heifer for them.” What can be inferred about Ancient Greek beliefs concerning death and the afterlife? It can be inferred that there was a substantial amount of sacrifice. People would slaughter animals and offer it to the gods for the purpose of benefiting the dead. If the gods were satisfied, then the dead would most likely pass over to the Underworld in a safe and efficient manner.

2. What details does Elpenor want Odysseus to remember about his burial, and how does it reflect the Greek rituals of death? Elpenor would like Odysseus to properly honor him. Essentially, he’s saying: “Don’t forget about me! Don’t leave me to fend for myself in the afterlife!” This reflects Greek customs because it is requested of people to treat the deceased with respect, and to aid them into the Underworld by performing proper rituals.

3. How does Odysseus react to seeing Elpenor? Anticlea? What characteristics of Odysseus are displayed in the scene? Odysseus reacted with compassion and shock after seeing Elpenor and Anticlea in the Underworld. A sense of sorrow and guilt overcame him, because a handful of those wandering around used to be companions with him at one point in life. A major characteristic that Odysseus displayed is empathy, especially towards Anticlea, since he wasn’t present during her final moments on Earth. He couldn’t do anything for her in the afterlife either, except hope that she can be treated well. 

4. “One narrow strait may take you through his blows: denial of yourself, restraint of your shipmates.” What leadership advice is Tiresias giving to Odysseus? What instructions does Tiresias give Odysseus in order to quell Poseidon’s rage? The path that Odysseus has to take to escape Poseidon’s wrath is incredibly dangerous, and has a low chance of success. Thus, he must be a strong and commanding leader that the crew will respect and obey. Everyone must restrain themselves from making poor decisions and giving into temptation. To quell Poseidon’s rage, Tiresias advises Odysseus to make an abundance of offerings to apologize for hurting Polyphemus.

Additionally, students learned about FOIL in literature. It’s a character that highlights the qualities of other characters. Oftentimes, a foil is the secondary character that contrasts with the main character. The following question should be considered while reading Book X: How does the character of Eurylochus serve as a FOIL to Odysseus?

THE SIRENS

Aim: How does Odysseus' strategic leadership further characterize him as an epic hero in "The Sirens" episode of Homer's Odyssey?
Notes For The Day:

The class discussed the concept of flattery, and defined it as the act of praising others for one’s own benefit. You should not succumb to flattery, because it often has an ulterior motive. The 3 Morals of Aesop’s Fable states: 1) Flattery is a dangerous weapon in the hands of the enemy, 2) Flattery is not proof of admiration, 3) He who listens to flattery is not wise, for it has no good purpose. 

Sirens are seductive creatures depicted as half-bird/half-woman that would lure sailors to the Wandering Rocks by singing of desire, wisdom, and knowledge. Students spirit-read “The Sirens.” After Odysseus properly honored Elpenor at Aeaea, Circe informed him about the Sirens, and advised him to put beeswax in his men’s ears. However, Odysseus insisted on listening to the Siren’s song, and tied himself to the mast of the ship. During the journey, Odysseus begged to be untied, but the faithful shipmates refused. Everyone survived!

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJpzse2qYlU) Students discussed the story by responding to a series of questions. 

1. Why does Odysseus address his men “sore at heart?” “Sore at heart” associates with a feeling of sadness. After everyone has endured so many hardships, Odysseus can’t believe that he has to tell his men that there is more danger ahead.

2. Why does Odysseus decide to tell his men about Circe’s forecast? Odysseus informs the men about Circe’s forecast to prepare them for the future. He doesn’t want them to be shocked when facing the Sirens; he wants them to be fully aware of the challenges to expect. What does Odysseus reveal about his character by sharing this information with his men? Odysseus is a transparent leader that doesn’t want to put his men in any form of danger. Not giving them a heads up about the Sirens would cause the likeliness of their success to decline drastically. Odysseus directs his crew to “tie me up…lashed to the mast, and if I shout and beg to be untied, take more turns of the rope to muffle me.” What leadership qualities does Odysseus demonstrate here? Odysseus trusts his companions, and has the utmost faith in them, which is a very important quality in a leader. Furthermore, Odysseus is incredibly selfless. He was willing to sacrifice himself rather than place the crew in harm’s way. “I carved a massive cake of beeswax into bits and rolled them in my hands until they softened … Going forward I carried the wax down the line, and laid it thick on their ears” shows that Odysseus would go to great lengths to protect the lives of his men.

3. In the “Siren’s Song,” what are the Sirens appealing to in an effort to lure the men in? How do the Sirens use flattery? The Sirens are appealing to desire, wisdom, and knowledge. They’re using flattery to boost the men's egos and hopefully lure them into the Wandering Rocks.

4. What does an analysis of the Siren Song suggest about the idea of human flattery? Why are we, as humans, susceptible to a figurative “Siren’s Call?” How can the sirens represent both desire and distraction? Humans enjoy receiving flattery because it speaks to our desires and enhances our sense of self-worth. We are susceptible to a figurative “Siren’s Call” because we enjoy being viewed upon in a positive light. The Sirens appeal to people by telling them everything they want to hear, representing desire. However, it can act as a distraction from reality, or the truth.

SCYLLA AND CHARYBDIS

Aim: How can we evaluate Odysseus’ leadership through his decision-making in his encounter 

with “Scylla and Charybdis” in Homer’s Odyssey?

Notes For The Day:

Students started the lesson by watching a YouTube video about the Trolley Problem. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOpf6KcWYyw) Essentially, you have the choice to save 5 people from an oncoming train by diverting it to 1 person. Another option is to push 1 man in front of the train to save the 6 others. The Trolley Problem examines if moral decisions are about outcomes or the manner in which it’s achieved. 

The class received background information about Scylla and Charybdis, monsters in Greek mythology. Scylla was a nymph who was claimed by the sea-god, Glacaus, but Circe poisoned the pool where Scylla bathed out of jealousy. As a result, the beautiful nymph transformed into a 6-headed sea monster who’d devour one sailor per head. Charybdis was a nymph who flooded lands for Poseidon’s kingdom. However, after purloining Hercules’ cattle, Charybdis was punished by Zeus, and turned into a whirlpool that sucks water in 3 times a day. 

Students spirit-read “Scylla and Charybdis.” Odysseus must confront either Scylla or Charybdis, but ultimately chose the 6-headed monster. The crew sailed through the route without attempting to put up a fight, for it’ll only make the situation worse. Scylla demolished 6 of Odysseus’ best men, a horrifying and heart-wrenching sight. The class believed that Odysseus chose to pursue the path of Scylla because it had a higher chance of survival. Although both options were absolutely dreadful, 6 men would be better than losing the whole ship. Moreover, students were provided with additional insight about Circe’s significant role in the story. She was the one who warned the men about the Sirens, offered advice on Scylla and Charybdis, and reprimanded Odysseus’ stubbornness.

The class had a lesson on allusions, or indirect references within a work of literature. The reference can be about a person, place, literary work, art piece, historical event, film, or song. Allusions are never elucidated because the audience will recognize and understand it. Its purpose is to establish a mood within the story, contribute to the theme, or relate to the reader. For instance, people allude to the story of “Scylla and Charybdis” when they’re "caught between a rock and a hard place.” The class discussed allusions relating to Adam and Eve, South Park, The Sound of Music, Star Wars, The Sopranos, The Addams Family, and Salvador Dalí.

Wrap-Up Question: How does the story of  Scylla & Charybdis correlate to the “Trolly Problem” in the Do Now? In the Trolly Problem, you are given the choice to save 5 people by sacrificing the life of 1 person. Correspondingly, in “Scylla and Charybdis,” Odysseus must decide between sacrificing 6 people to save the rest of the men onboard (Scylla), or possibly risk everyone’s life (Charybdis). Both scenarios deal with sacrifice, along with the concept of, “the lesser of 2 evils.”

REFLECTION

Today, I learned a plethora of topics as I read about Odysseus’ journey in “The Land of the Dead,” “The Sirens,” and “Scylla and Charybdis.” The lesson on “The Land of the Dead” provided insight on the Underworld and Greek traditions of honoring the dead. The story highlighted Odysseus’ compassionate side, and foreshadowed the events that’ll occur in the future. The lesson on “The Sirens” discussed the idea of flattery, and the human tendency to succumb to it. The story taught a great deal about Odysseus’ character, especially in regard to the qualities of loyalty (to shipmates) and selflessness. Lastly, the “Scylla and Charybdis” lesson focused on decision-making: what should one choose when presented with 2 equally poor options? In addition, I learned about mythical creatures, as well as allusions. 

I learned about Greek mythology to truly acknowledge the obstacles Odysseus and the crew had to overcome. The issues that were spoken upon in the lessons can be applied to daily life as well. For instance, from now on, I will not be tempted by flattery! As the class continues to read “The Odyssey,” my newfound knowledge about Greek culture/mythology will be used to establish a deeper comprehension of Odysseus’ journey. I’ll be on the lookout for allusions in real life, too.

Blogger #5 - Andrea Dong - 1/4/21 - Period 2 - Day A

Note: This is a three in one lesson, the responses and answers to the questions will be in blue. In addition, to open some of these PDFs and documents, please be signed into your SITHS google account. 

---

Homework: Consists of: The Odyssey Plot Sum I-VIII (Book 8) & The Odyssey Book X (Book 10). Please use the accompanying slides as a guide for understanding, as well as for questions to consider while reading.

Please open up the slides attached below to complete your homework. You can work with your group mates! 

The Odyssey Books 1-8: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1RPh-wqjVmtz59phEyDIA0VJF_U-8Ysw6C63d2qcVoeY/edit

The Odyssey Book X:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dkAmyAaseNbTNU6y4VNmvj6jwKNLE6CM7wIdB_U4vzM/edit

---

Lesson 9: The Odyssey: Land of the Dead

Aim​: How does the episode of "The Land of the Dead" further our understanding of Odysseus as the epic hero?

We start off the class with a Do Now like always: 

Do Now: Class Discussion

➢ What are some of the cultural traditions we use to honor the dead?

➢ Consider your culture and/or religion - what do you and your family do in order to mourn the passing of a

loved one?

○ How might these traditions be observed in order to honor fallen warriors & soldiers?

Response #1: Host a funeral and burn a special type of paper to honor them.

Response #2: Father burns sticks (incense) everyday to honor the dead one.

Response #3: Burn gold paper, small cars and houses (not real ones!).

Enrichment: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier [http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier]

After the Do-Now, the class spirit read and watched a video about “Death and the Underworld.”

● The Greeks believed that that after death, the soul went on a journey to the Underworld

● The Underworld was deep beneath the Earth and was ruled by Hades and his wife Persephone

● In the afterlife, the soul would either receive punishment or a state of bliss depending on choices made during life

● At the end of this journey, they would be brought to three judges who would decide their fate:

● Would they go onwards to ​Elysium​ (a comfortable place where the sun always shone), or would they be punished and sent to ​Tartarus?

Video

The Underworld: The Kingdom of Hades - Greek Mythology Curiosities - See U in History:  https://youtu.be/5VEbWU3izcE 

Following, we read about Honoring and Remembering the Dead

The Greeks held elaborate burial rituals

○ A proper burial was necessary, omission of burial rites was seen as an insult to human dignity .

○ If the body was not given a proper burial according to Greek ritual, the soul would remain trapped between the worlds of the living and the underworld. 

In ancient ​Greece​ the continued existence of the dead depended on their constant remembrance by the living

○ If one forgot to honor and remember the dead one was considered impious and, while this particular breach of social conduct was not punished as severely as Socrates' breach, it was certainly frowned upon severely.

Adapted from:​ 

​https://www.ancient.eu/article/29/the-after-life-in-ancient-greece/

Moving on, the class read “Land of the Dead” and answered questions.

Land of the Dead: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1B2UC-VafUK7i1TJ8CxlqN6K3Q0yTRD6B/view?usp=drivesdk 

Questions to go along with the reading:

1. As Odysseus prepares to meet the dead he says, ​“Then I addressed the blurred and breathless dead, / vowing to slaughter my best heifer (cow) for them...”​ (line 555-556). What can be inferred about ancient Greek beliefs concerning death and the afterlife from these lines?

    The Greeks like to make sacrifices to the gods in the hopes of the gods helping the dead with their passage to the underworld.

2. Discuss Elpenor's request to Odysseus (lines 598-608).

a. What details does he want Odysseus to remember about his burial?

He wanted his corpse to be burned, for there to be a monument of him, and a oar on his ships so he won’t be forgotten.

b. How does this reflect the Greek ritual of death?

    The Greeks really respect the dead and there is a very specific process because they believe that for souls to travel through the underworld is not an easy task.

3. How does Odysseus react to seeing Elpenor (Lines 580-585)?

a. How does he react to Anticlea (his mother) (Lines 614-619)?

b. What characteristics of Odysseus do we see displayed in this scene?

    Odysseus did not expect Elpenor’s soul to be in the underworld so quickly. Odysseus was also upset upon seeing his mother because she was still alive when he left home to fight in the Trojan war. However, seeing his mother’s soul, Odysseus now knows that his mother was treated properly after death.

4. Although not a god, ​Tiresias​ has been endowed with the ​power of prophecy​. Consider the following advice Tiresias gives to Odysseus regarding the remainder of his journey home: ​“One narrow strait may take you through his blows: denial of yourself, restraint of your shipmates.”

a. What leadership advice is Tiresias giving to Odysseus?

b. In addition, what instructions does Tiresias give Odysseus in order to quell Poseidon’s rage?

    Tiresias wants Odysseus to trust himself and his teammates because traveling through the sea will not be an easy task now that Poseidon is angered by Odysseus. Tiresias wants Odysseus to make a sacrifice to Poseidon (a bull) because Odysseus has angered Poseidon by blinding Polyphemus.

Vocabulary:

Ignoble (adj)​ - dishonorable, shameful 

Assuage (verb)​ - to calm, to mollify, to lessen

Foil: 

In literature, a foil is a character that shows qualities that are in contrast with the qualities of another character. The objective is to highlight the traits of the other character. The term foil, though generally being applied to a contrasting character, may also be used for any comparison that is drawn to portray a difference between two things.

What we observe in literature very often is that a foil is a secondary character who contrasts with the major character to enhance the importance of the major character. The etymology of the term foil testifies the aforementioned assertion as the word is taken from the practice of backing gems with foil (tool), so that they shine more brightly.

Enrichments: 

• The ​“Funeral Practices”​. Feel free to annotate for clarification.

• “The Ancient Greek Burial Rites”​ questions for guidance, in case you were confused. They are NOT to be submitted!

• https://youtu.be/peJy-xmPOFM 

After completing Lesson 9, the class jumped straight into Lesson 10.

---

Lesson 10: The Odysseus: The Sirens

Aim:​ ​How does Odysseus' strategic leadership further characterize him as an epic hero in "The Sirens" episode of Homer's ​Odyssey​?

Starting off with the Do Now: 

FLATTERY:

How would you define the term “​flattery​”? Review the “3” Morals of Aesop’s Fable. What do you believe the morals advise?

● Flattery is a dangerous weapon in the hands of the enemy.

● Flattery is not proof of admiration.

● He who listens to flattery is not wise, for it has no good purpose.

Response: Flattery is to make someone happy by complimenting them, even though it might not be what you really think. It is often done when you want to get something from others.

After the Do Now, we start the lesson by learning a bit about the sirens and watching a short video:

Time to spirit read some notes!

Odysseus and the Sirens

❖ The sirens are seductive creatures that lure sailors to their death with their song.

❖ Upon hearing the song, sailors are led to the Wandering Rocks where their ship

crashes and sinks.

❖ Sirens are often depicted as half-bird/half-woman (they have also been used in

many modern examples as mermaid-type creatures).

Odysseus and his men return to Circe’s island where they give Elpenor proper burial rites and burn his body. Before they leave, Circe gives Odysseus some important advice for the next portion of his journey. She warns him of the sirens he will encounter. With their songs, the sirens lure sailors to their destruction at the Wandering Rocks. She tells Odysseus to put beeswax in his men’s ears so that they will not hear the song.

The Sirens sing of desire, and promise wisdom and knowledge.

Legend has it that no mortal has ever heard the song and lived to tell the tale, but if Odysseus insists on hearing the song himself, then he should have himself tied to the mast of the ship.

Quick Video:

Sirens: The Seductive Creatures of Greek Mythology: https://youtu.be/hJpzse2qYlU 

Next, we read “The Sirens” from The Odyssey 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7t7Yoj6bW7TG4i62Ge6W-wMIZV1TVTV/view?usp=drivesdk

Here are the questions for the main reading of the lesson:

Lines 685 – 698

1. Why does Odysseus address his men ​“sore at heart”​?

Odysseus addresses his men as sore at heart because he is sad to have to tell his men they are traveling to a place where only one group of people has ever made it out alive. 

2. Why does Odysseus decide to tell his men about Circe’s forecast?

a. What does Odysseus reveal about his character by sharing this information with his men?

b. Circe insists that Odysseus ​“​alone should listen to their song​.”​ He directs his crew to ​“​tie me up...lashed to the mast, and if I shout and beg to be untied, take more turns of the rope to muffle me.​ ” ​What leadership qualities does Odysseus demonstrate here?

c. What character traits are revealed in Odysseus’ desire to hear the Sirens’ song? ​“​I carved a massive cake of beeswax into bits / and rolled them in my hands until they softened ... Going forward / I carried the wax down the line, and laid it / thick on their ears..”

d. Consider this action along with their successful escape and assess the leadership qualities revealed by Odysseus.

    Odysseus decides to tell his men about Circe’s forecast because his men would know what to expect and be prepared for the danger. The leadership qualities Odysseus demonstrates is faithfulness in his teammates and selflessness to put only himself in harm. Odysseus reveals curiosity when he wants to listen to the Sirens’ song.

 3. Read the “Siren’s Song ” below. Analyze the strategy sirens use to lure the men. ​What are they appealing to;​ ​in an effort to lure the men in?

a. How do the sirens use ​flattery​ to lure the soldiers?

b. What examples would appeal to the crew and to the epic hero?

    The sirens’ song appeals to desire and wisdom in an effort to lure men in. The sirens use flattery to lure the soldiers by making them lose concentration and think about glory/ opportunities. Examples of what would appeal to the crew and the epic hero would be praise for participating in war and having to go through such difficulties to get back home.

This way, oh turn your bows 

1Achaea’s​ glory,

As all the world allows- 

Moor and be merry.

Sweet coupled airs we sing. 

No lonely seafarer 

Holds clear of entering 

Our green mirror.

Pleased by each purling note 

Like honey twining

From her throat and my throat. 

Who lies a-pining?

Sea rovers here take joy 

Voyaging onward.

As from our song of Troy 

Grey beard and rower boy 

Goeth more learned.

All feats on the great field

In the long warfare,

Dark days the bright gods willed, 

Wounds you bore there.

2Argos’​ old soldiery

On Troy beach teeming 

Charmed out of time we see. 

No life on earth can be 

Hid from our dreaming.

1Achaea​- Greek Mythology Link. A​chaea ​has been called a region in southern Thessaly, and also the northern coast of the Peloponnesus. Those who marched against Troy were called Achaeans, and sometimes Argives for living in Argolis.

2Argos’ - ​The beach is full of Argos' soldiers; 'Troy beach' is, of course, the beaches outside of Troy where they camped out for years, trying to defeat the Trojans.

5. What does an analysis of the Siren Song suggest about the idea of human ​flattery​? 

a. Why are we, as humans, susceptible to a ​figurative​ “Siren’s Call?”

b. How can the sirens represent both ​desire​ and ​distraction​?

    An analysis of the Siren song suggests that the idea of human flattery is often viewed negatively. Humans are susceptible to a figurature “Siren’s Call” because maybe we aren’t getting praise for our work and it would feel good when someone finally compliments you. The sirens represent both desire and distraction because they lure you in by telling you about your desire, what you desire to become. They also distract you from who you really are and what is happening around you.

Enrichment:

The Odyssey by Homer — Book 12 Summary & Analysis: https://youtu.be/gJBGlIL5O6Q 

Pirates of the Caribbean Mermaid Scene: https://youtu.be/hC8gpeDgZG8 

Questions for the Pirates of the Caribbean Mermaid Scene:

● How are the sirens depicted in the film?

    In the film, the sirens are depicted as mermaid-like creatures who use their singing to lure in sailors.

● How do the sailors behave upon hearing the sirens’ song?

     The sailors get stunned upon hearing the sirens’ songs. They want to get closer to the sirens.

CHECK ANSWERS, fill in answers,  AND INSERT IMAGE!!!

Finally, it’s time for the last lesson of the day!

---

Lesson 11: The Odyssey: Scylla and Charybdis

Aim​:​ ​How can we evaluate Odysseus’ leadership through his decision-making in his encounter with “Scylla and Charybdis” in Homer’s ​Odyssey​?

Do Now: Would you sacrifice one person in order to save five other people?

➢ What would influence your decision if you had to make a choice according to “The Trolley Problem?”

Responses: I would sacrifice one person in order to save five other people. The biggest thing that would influence my decision if I had to make a choice according to “The Trolley Problem” is if I know the person, and what I need to do to save the people. In the problem, I would kill the one person on the other track to save the other five, but I would not push the person down the bridge to stop the train. This is because the people on the train tracks were already put in a situation to die and the train could have killed any one of them. However, the person on the bridge was already safe to begin with so it’s not right to push them down the bridge.

Now, the class read about Scylla and Charybdis.

Scylla:

In Greek mythology, there was a sea monster who lived underneath a dangerous rock, opposite the whirlpool Charybdis. She threatened passing ships.

Scylla was a nymph, daughter of Phorcys. 

The fisherman-turned-sea-god, Glaucus, fell madly in love with her, but she fled from him onto the land where he could not follow. Despair filled his heart. He went to the sorceress Circe to ask for a love potion to melt Scylla's heart. As he told his tale of love to Circe, she herself fell in love with him. She wooed him with her sweetest words and looks, but the sea-god would have none of her.

Circe was furiously angry, but with Scylla and not with Glaucus. She prepared a vial of very powerful poison and poured it in the pool where Scylla bathed. As soon as the nymph entered the water, she was transformed into a frightful monster with twelve feet and six heads, each with three rows of teeth. Below the waist her body was made up of hideous monsters, like dogs, who barked unceasingly. ​This description of Scylla is probably derived from the imagery of words associated with her name--namely, "hermit-crab" (Greek ​skyllaros​), "dog" and "dog-shark" (​skylax)​ , and "to rend" (​skyllô)​.

She stood there in utter misery, unable to move, loathing and destroying everything that came into her reach, a peril to all sailors who passed near her. Whenever a ship passed, ​each of her heads​ would seize one of the crew.

Charybdis:

A female monster represented in the form of a whirlpool.

She was once a nymph-daughter of Poseidon and Gaia who flooded lands for her father's underwater kingdom; however, her life was changed after she stole Hercules' cattle.

As punishment, Zeus turned her into a monster. Three times a day, Charybdis sucks water in and vomits it out. This is believed to be how the Ancient Greeks imagined the changing of the tides throughout the day.

The Greeks had a verb “​ekcha rubdizô”​ which meant to swallow like Charybdis. This verb was invented in order to describe those who were gluttonous.

She lived in a cave at one side of the Strait of Messina, opposite the monster Scylla, the two of them forming a dangerous threat to passing ships.

Next, we read “Scylla & Charybdis” from The Odyssey

*Keep in mind while we read “Scylla & Charybdis”

Odysseus is faced with the challenge of bringing his men through two dangerous places.

➢ Why does he choose one over the other?

Scylla & Charybdis:   

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OH77TtDun-Lkp1Oyq_BLisyQTIKKasr0/view?usp=drivesdk

Important note in reading — Circe’s Advice: 

Just as she offered advice with the Sirens, Circe also gives Odysseus information about two other sea monsters he will encounter: Scylla and Charybdis. Only one ship (Argo) has ever managed to pass in between these monsters without losing any lives. Circe tells Odysseus that he should pass Scylla and sacrifice six of his men; rather than risk the entire crew to Charybdis. Odysseus asks if he can escape Charybdis and then fight off Scylla to save the lives of all of his men. Circe reprimands his stubbornness and informs him that Scylla is immortal.

After the Reading, there will a quick lesson on Allusions:

[Insert Image!]

People ​allude​ to this story when they are talking about the idea of ​"being caught between a rock and a hard place".

What do you think ​“between a rock and a hard place” ​means? Or the idiom ​“to choose the lesser of two evils”​?

Here is a PowerPoint on Allusions:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rypIGn1SveoU8vc31cFJzJUKG0Ks4TnS/view?usp=sharing

Moving onto the classwork of today’s lesson:

Point of View

1. Imagine you are one of Odysseus' men when he leads his crew to Scylla.

a. How do you feel about his decision to take you closer to Scylla?

b. Do you support his decision or not?

    I would feel safe and nervous about his decision to take me closer to Scylla because it was Circe’s advice. However, some of the people will die so that’s why I’m nervous. I support his decision because I don’t want all of my crew or me to die and I might even have a chance to survive otherwise.

2. Also, Odysseus decides it would be best to not tell his men which route they are taking. But as I sent them on toward Scylla, I told them nothing, as they could do nothing. Assess Odysseus’ decision.

a. Would you have wanted to know which route Odysseus was leading you?

i. Why or why not?

b. If you were the leader, do you think you would have made the same decision?

c. Why might Odysseus have opted to withhold this information from his men?

    I would not want to have known which route Odysseus was leading me because if I don’t know what to expect, I would feel more confident. I would perform better because I won’t be as nervous. If I am the leader, I would have made the same decision because it will put less pressure on my crew to not know the danger and prevent them from messing up, which may bring us more harm. Odysseus might have opted to withhold this information from his men because both routes taken will lead to deaths and the crew doesn’t know which route is which. Thus, they can be prepared for the worse and things can only get better from there.

3. How does the story of​ ​Scylla & Charybdis​ ​correlate to the​ ​“Trolly Problem”​ ​we encountered in the ​Do Now​?

    The story of Scylla & Charybdis correlate to the “Trolly Problem” in the Do Now because Odysseus has to make a decision between killing off some of his crew or all of his crew. It would be unfair to those who died if he took the route to Scylla, but it would be unfair to those who didn’t need to die if he sailed towards Charybdis instead.

Enrichments:

Scylla: The Story Behind Greek Mythology’s Deadliest Sea Monster - (Greek Mythology Explained): 

https://youtu.be/xF3gVMM8RZI

Charybdis: The Gigantic Whirlpool Monster of Greek Mythology - (Greek Mythology Explained):

https://youtu.be/EIRTWxQOiLs

Reflections:

Today, I learned more about the Greek culture and Odysseus’ traits as a leader. The Greeks respect the dead and believe in a proper burial for the soul to travel to the underworld. I was able to see Odysseus demonstrate selflessness (putting beeswax not into his ears, but his crews’ ears), vulnerability (when he was upset to see his mother’s soul in the underworld), and trust (he ordered his teammates to tie him to the ship and not let him go on all accounts). Furthermore, I was exposed to tons of new Greek monsters like Scylla and Charybdis. Also, I have always known about the mermaid version of sirens, but I didn’t learn they used to be birds and came from the Greek culture. Learning more about the monsters that used to be humans taught me that the Greeks must have had high ethics because they are afraid of consequences from the gods.

I learned what I did so I can apply my knowledge to other classes and to stories I will read in the future. In World History, I learn about Greece too and knowing more about the Greek culture can help me in my writings. In addition, today’s lesson helps me build Odysseus’ character and better understand why he does what he does and what his mindset is when having to choose. It is important to understand the stories of the past as well as the present. Not only seeing how literature has changed, we can see how people’s beliefs have changed. Do people still belief in the same gods? Have the funeral rituals changed? These are all considerations I take in while learning and it helps me make connections across time periods.

I can use what I learned in my daily life. Odysseus’ characteristic doesn’t just apply to him, it applies to everyone. Through learning about Odysseus, I become more observant of the people around me and their traits. I notice that when people make mistakes, they often make up for it in some way. Moreover, I can use what I learned while watching movies. I can see how the heroes of their own stories relate to one another. I can compare their qualities to Odysseus’ and see how stories have evolved. I can also use my knowledge of the Greeks, their beliefs, and monsters to write stories of my own. Lastly, learning techniques authors use like allusions gets me to learn how literature is connected to one another and make me more aware while reading. For example, while reading the book When yesterday night, I found an allusion. “I was stuck between a rock and a hard place, and feeling like the life was getting squished right out of me.”