Names:________________________________________________________________________ Period:________
Odysseus- Epic Hero?
Using these traits of an epic hero, determine if Odysseus from “The Odyssey” exhibits these qualities. If you
check yes or no, you need to put a detail from the epic to justify your answer.
Trait
1. Excels in skill, strength,
and courage
2. Succeeds in war and
adventure
3. Values honor and glory
4. Usually has a guide
5. Battles demons or
monsters
6. Is generous to his
followers but ruthless to
his enemies
7. Is a man of action
8. Accepts challenges and
invites problems
9. Sometimes makes rash
decisions and takes
unnecessary risks
10. Meets Monsters and
temptations
11. Encounters women who
tempt him
12. His travels take him to a
supernatural world
13. Achieves his goal
14. Receives help from
different people
15. Reaches a low point
where he almost gives
up
16. Regains his “rightful
place”
Yes
No
Specific Example from Epic