Draft the summary for The Odyssey Part 1, The Odyssey Part 2, The Odyssey Part 3, or Orpheus and Eurydice.
Remember to use your own words and to focus only on important information.
2. Refer to the strategies on pp. 294-297 in The Essential Guide to Language, Writing, & Literature to construct powerful paragraphs for your summary. Take note of the specific tips about writing a topic sentence, supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence. Working on the draft you completed earlier, revise and edit the summary for the use of the "literary present" tense and for chronological order. Make sure that sentences
are clear, concise, and varied in structure.…
The Odyssey Part 1 begins with the hero Odysseus stranded on the island of Ogygia, under the captivity of the nymph Calypso. Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, Odysseus' wife Penelope is facing pressure to remarry from suitors who have invaded their home. In an effort to reclaim his throne and reunite with his family, Odysseus sets out on a journey filled with dangerous obstacles and mythical creatures, guided by the goddess Athena.
In The Odyssey Part 2, Odysseus recounts his adventures to the Phaeacians, beginning with his departure from Troy. He and his men face numerous challenges, including encounters with the Cyclops, Circe, and the Sirens. Despite facing many obstacles, Odysseus displays his cunning and leadership skills as he navigates the treacherous seas and outwits his foes. Through his tales, the Phaeacians are inspired by Odysseus' bravery and determination.
The Odyssey Part 3 follows Odysseus as he finally returns to Ithaca, disguised as a beggar by the goddess Athena. He discovers that his home has been overrun by the suitors vying for Penelope's hand in marriage. With the help of his son Telemachus and loyal servants, Odysseus plans to exact his revenge on the suitors and reclaim his throne. As the tension builds in Ithaca, Odysseus must use all of his wit and strength to emerge victorious and reunite with his beloved wife and son.
In the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, the musician Orpheus loses his wife Eurydice to a snake bite. Overcome with grief, Orpheus descends into the underworld to beg Hades for her return. Moved by his music, Hades agrees to let Eurydice return with Orpheus on the condition that he does not look back until they have both reached the surface. Tragically, Orpheus cannot resist the temptation and turns to look at Eurydice, losing her forever. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the consequences of human frailty.