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The Lotus-Eaters. By: Jordan Zarzour 7 th Period. Background information…. Zeus gets angry with Odysseus and his crew because he feels he didn’t give the Gods enough credit for winning the Battle of Troy.
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The Lotus-Eaters By: Jordan Zarzour 7th Period
Background information… • Zeus gets angry with Odysseus and his crew because he feels he didn’t give the Gods enough credit for winning the Battle of Troy. • As a result of his anger, Zeus created a storm to set Odysseus and his crew off course.
Brief Summary of this section… • Odysseus tells his host Alcinous what happened to him since he left Troy. • Land of the Lotus-Eaters; Odysseus and his crew stopped for fresh water and rest. • Three men were sent off to learn about the island's residents. • The residents: friendly & offered the men some of their food, the lotus. • The men enjoyed the delicious plant, but the lotus is a powerful narcotic-type plant that made those of Odysseus' men who ate it not want to leave the island. • Odysseus ordered the rest of the men not to touch it, Odysseus bound those who had already eaten it and sailed off.
Motivations and Main Conflict… • There are conflicting motivations! • Odysseus wants to go home to see his family and loved ones whereas his crew wants to stay and eat the powerful and delicious flowers. • Odysseus’ crew is not in compliance or agreement in what to do regarding their location for the time being.
Theme/ Lesson… • The theme or lesson of this particular section is to not give into temptation. • Odysseus’ will to go home is stronger than that of the need to stay and eat such a tasteful plant. • The will of Odysseus’ crew however is much weaker. • Foreshadows further lapses and dedication.
Significant Passage(s)… • Line 95; “…who showed us no harm, only offering the sweet Lotus to our friends- but those who ate this honeyed plant, the Lotus, never cared to report, nor to return: they longed to stay forever,” • Line 100; “…browsing on that native bloom, forgetful of their homeland.” • Line 105; “…no one taste the Lotus, or you lose your hope of home.”
A reference to The Lotus-Eaters concept in modern day media. • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yV0I3lKito