ENGLISH IX
SEARCH FOR SELF: LITERATURE ACROSS CULTURES AND AROUND THE GLOBE
The Odyssey, by Homer and Emily Wilson
ISBN-13: 978-0393356250
Our study of English IX begins with The Odyssey by Homer. The Odyssey is an epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus’ journey home to Ithaca after fighting for 10 years in the Trojan War. As we read through Odysseus’ adventures, it is likely that you will recognize some of the mythic figures and stories contained within them.
Although Odysseus is the poem’s central figure, the first four books (chapters) of The Odyssey actually begin with his son, Telemachus. An infant when Odysseus left home to fight in the war, Telemachus only knows his father through the many stories he has heard of Odysseus’ bravery, skill, and crafty intelligence.
This summer, you will read the first nine books (or chapters) of The Odyssey. The early books will introduce you to Odyseeus’ son, Telemachus, and his wife, Penelope, while also giving you a sense of what their life is like while he is away. The later books chronicle Odysseus’ voyage home. The last book you will read, 9, begins an extended flashback in which Odysseus shares his famous adventures.
Some recommendations for active reading
Read with a pen in hand and respond to the story; write in your book.
React to what is happening; ask questions in the margin.
Use the index in the back of the book to help you keep track of the characters.
Look up words or references that you are unfamiliar with.
Make connections with other stories that you know and with your own experiences.
While you do not need to write out your responses to these questions, think through them as you read and be prepared to discuss them during the first weeks of school.