History

Frederick Lutz

8 January, 17:52

Read the passage from The Odyssey.

At dawn, Circe sent a favourable wind to take them on their way. But Odysseus was filled with fear at what Circe had told him.

"I must warn my men," he thought. "They must all know what to do when danger strikes."

He called his men to him and told them what Circe had said. "Soon we shall hear women's voices singing," he said. "These are the Sirens. They use their divine song to attract sailors to come too close. Then their ships are smashed against the rocks. You shall plug your ears with beeswax. But, I confess, I should like to hear their song. You must tie me to the mast and refuse to release me if I ask."

How is the hero in this passage similar to a modern-day hero?

He takes risks instead of following good advice.

He is easily distracted from his duties as a leader.

He is honest with his men about the dangers ahead.

He seeks supernatural knowledge about the future.