The Adventures of Odysseus and The Tales of Troy
What’s inside...
The Adventures of Odysseus and the Tale of Troy by Padraic Colum, first published in 1918, is a classic retelling of Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. The book is divided into two parts: the first detailing the Trojan War, including the story of the Trojan Horse, and the second following the hero Odysseus on his journey home, facing numerous challenges. Written in a simple, accessible style and adorned with black and white illustrations, this work serves as an excellent introduction to Greek mythology and epic poetry. Despite being a facsimile reprint of the original, this culturally important work has been preserved and made available in high-quality, modern editions.
Age
8-12
Length
280 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Odysseus
Eumaeus
Telemachus
Penelope
Athena
Antinous
Discussion points
How do you think Odysseus felt on his journey home and why?
What lessons can we learn from the way Odysseus dealt with challenges?
Can you imagine what life was like in Troy? What would be different if you were there?
If you had a chance to meet one character from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the characters to enhance empathy and understanding. Discuss the historical and cultural background of the story to broaden their perspective. Use the adventures in the story to teach problem-solving and the importance of perseverance. Highlight the moral dilemmas and decisions characters face to instigate discussions on values and ethics.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Odysseus' long journey back home after the Trojan War, facing numerous challenges, demonstrates immense resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying determined and persistent in the face of their own challenges, whether it's completing a difficult school project or solving a complex puzzle.
Example Lesson: Wisdom over strength
Explanation: Throughout the book, Odysseus often uses his intelligence and wit to overcome obstacles that brute strength alone could not tackle, such as escaping from the Cyclops' cave.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of thinking through problems and finding smart solutions instead of relying solely on force or giving up when faced with difficulties.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: Each decision made by characters in the tales, such as Odysseus’ choice to reveal his identity to the Cyclops, leads to specific consequences that affect their journey.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their actions have consequences, encouraging them to think before they act and make more responsible choices.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Odysseus and his crew must work together to navigate the challenges they face, such as resisting the Sirens’ song or battling Scylla and Charybdis.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, whether in team sports, group projects at school, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Loyalty and faithfulness
Explanation: The enduring faithfulness of Penelope towards Odysseus during his absence teaches about the importance of loyalty and trust in relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in a child’s life by emphasizing the importance of being faithful and dependable friends or family members.