2006, Form B. In many works of literature, a physical journey - the literal movement from one place to another - plays a central role. Choose a novel, play, or epic poem in which a physical journey is an important element and discuss how the journey adds to the meaning of the work as a whole. Avoid mere plot summary.
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Among all plays and literature, Homer's Odyssey is widely regarded as one of the most influential works of all time. The epic has influenced thousands of years of literature with a central journey as the main aspect of the plot. Throughout the entire poem, Odysseus travels literally to hell and back in order to return to his home of Ithaca. His journey makes up the entire plot so it is a critically important element of the poem. During his journey, he overcomes several trials and tribulations which test his physical and mental strength. One example is the group of sirens which tempt Odysseus to drown himself. His ship’s crew must use every resource to stop him from doing so. Another example a shipwreck which kills every one of his crewmates and friends, leaving only him alive to fend for himself.
These unfortunate events are important to the journey and therefore the poem because they help Odysseus grow as a person and leave him much wiser when he returns home. He uses his intelligence to form a plan which would save his wife from suitors and restore order to his kingdom to conclude the poem. The journey is also important because it helps the poem communicate the some main themes through the different events that occur along the way. One specific theme that repeats itself through the story is obedience to the gods – disobedience is what led to the death of all his crew mates (as one example). Another motif is temptation, as seen through his encounter with the sirens and stay with Calypso.
Because the journey itself enables Homer to develop/nurture Odysseus as a character and communicate different motifs, many layers of depth are added to the piece. This journey of growth is what inspired many works in the future to have a similar journey to the one found in the Odyssey.
Hi Santos! The Odyssey is a great example of a work focused on Odysseus' journey. I think it makes it so that setting plays a central role; since it changes, each one is significant. Also, like you mentioned, it allows for Odysseus to learn multiple lessons, one for every encouner. I agree that the long journey added many layers of depth to the story.
ReplyDeleteThe Odyssey is a great choice for this prompt! I like how you made sure to avoid plot summary, but maybe elaborate a little bit more on the examples, so it's not just 1 sentence. Elaborating a little bit more instead of just listing an event will show your knowledge of the text and further support your point. Overall good job, seeing as the entire story was about his journey, it makes sense that the journey itself is a significant part of the story.
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