1. The opening verses (the prologue) of Book One (approximately verses 1-25) sets the stage for this epic poem. What are the main themes / ideas you find here. Why do you think this is the case (something more than "Because this is what the story will be about..." - that is too obvious)? What about the speaker of this epic - what purposes does this poetic voice serve? How does it accomplish what it sets out to do?
2. After the prologue, Book One is a study in contrasts. We have two groups (the gods and the humans) described in detail here. How does the text juxtapose one group against the other? Why do you think this is the case?
3. Do a character study of Telemachus. Use specific quotes from the text to defend your analysis.
4. Why do you think we have to hear Telemachus's story before we ever get to Odysseus? Why the son before the father (especially if this is a story about Odysseus - or is it?)?
5. Why does Telemachus go where he does? How might his physical journey also represent a symbolic journey of growth? Think about whom he visits - why these specific characters? Use specific quotes from the text to defend your analysis.
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