I need help on this question...
The Cyclops asks his ram, “Can you be grieving over your master’s eye?”
How is this question supposed to make us, the reader, feel toward Polyphemus?
I don't know how the reader is supposed to feel, but I know what the quote means
Please see your other post first, and then let me know what you decide about this question.
The question asked by the Cyclops, "Can you be grieving over your master's eye?" is meant to evoke certain emotions in the reader towards Polyphemus.
1. Sympathy: The question suggests that Polyphemus may be feeling sorrow or grief over the loss of his eye. This may elicit sympathy from the reader, as they may feel sorry for his pain and suffering.
2. Connection: The question implies that the ram and Polyphemus have a bond or relationship, where the ram is seen as a companion or even a pet. This may invoke a sense of connection or understanding towards Polyphemus, as he shows concern for his ram's feelings.
3. Complexity: The question introduces a complex and nuanced aspect of Polyphemus' character. It highlights the potential for depth and emotional complexity in him, moving beyond the typical portrayal of a monstrous creature. This complexity may intrigue the reader, making them view Polyphemus in a more nuanced and multi-dimensional way.
Overall, the question is designed to elicit a mix of sympathy, connection, and curiosity towards Polyphemus, ultimately making the reader feel a range of emotions towards him.
To understand how this question is meant to make us feel towards Polyphemus, it is important to consider the context and the implications of the question.
In Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey, Polyphemus is a Cyclops and one of the antagonistic characters that the hero, Odysseus, encounters on his journey. Polyphemus is depicted as a cruel and savage creature who has already blinded Odysseus and his men. The question the Cyclops asks his ram, "Can you be grieving over your master's eye?" is meant to emphasize Polyphemus' lack of empathy and understanding.
To analyze the question's effect on the reader, we can break it down step by step:
1. "Can you be grieving": This suggests that the ram is capable of feeling sorrow or remorse, highlighting its ability to empathize and sympathize with others. It evokes a sense of compassion or tenderness that contrasts with Polyphemus' own brutality.
2. "Over your master's eye": This phrase reminds us of the ram's loyalty and dependence on its master, Polyphemus. By referencing the blinding of Polyphemus, the question reminds us of the Cyclops' cruel and violent actions. It also suggests that the ram might be mourning the loss of its master's eye, despite the fact that Polyphemus caused such harm.
Overall, this question prompts the reader to feel a range of emotions towards Polyphemus, such as disgust, anger, and a sense of injustice. It highlights his callousness, contrasting it with the potential for empathy shown by the ram. In this way, the question serves to deepen our negative perception of Polyphemus and further develop the themes of morality and compassion in The Odyssey.