What is the effect of the epic simile in lines 118–131 of the excerpt from the Odyssey, Part II?
In the excerpt from the Odyssey, Part II, the epic simile used in lines 118–131 creates a vivid and powerful effect. This simile compares the Cyclops throwing rocks as weapons to a farmer scattering seeds in a field. The effect of this comparison is to emphasize the relentless and destructive force of the Cyclops' actions.
The simile begins with the line, "as a mountain lion upon the flocks of a shepherd". This image of a predator pouncing on helpless prey suggests the Cyclops' immense strength and his ability to overpower the men. The description continues by stating, "so under the Cyclops' mastery they were killing us", which reinforces the idea of the Cyclops as a ruthless predator, annihilating the men one by one.
The simile then shifts its focus to the Cyclops throwing rocks, comparing his actions to a farmer sowing seeds. This comparison creates an interesting contrast between the peaceful and productive act of farming with the violent and destructive act of the Cyclops. The simile describes how "he whirled it about in an orbit like a disk" and how his "throw was tremendous", emphasizing the force and precision with which the rocks are hurled at the men.
Overall, the effect of the epic simile in lines 118–131 is to convey a sense of terror and helplessness in the face of the Cyclops' power and violence. The vivid and detailed comparison between the Cyclops' actions and the imagery of a predator hunting and a farmer sowing emphasizes the overwhelming force and destruction unleashed upon the men.