Epic Character Defense Assignment
Honors World Literature Homer’s The Odyssey
Epic Character Defense
Characterization Deep Dive & Persuasive Argumentation Dossier
The Challenge
Select any figure from The Odyssey (e.g., Penelope, Telemachus, Athena, Circe, Eumaeus, Calypso, Polyphemus, or Odysseus). Thoroughly dissect three distinct character traits using direct textual evidence, then construct a thesis-driven defense arguing why your chosen figure is the most compelling, psychologically rich, or thematically vital character in the entire epic.
1
Selection & Epic Function
Chosen Character
Role in the Epic
Key Books Appeared In
Trait 01 First Character Trait
e.g., Cunning (Mêtis), Unwavering Loyalty, Prideful Hubris, Tactical Deference
Identify trait
Specific Book & Line Citation
Direct Textual Evidence
Analytical Commentary (why is this trait important to this character, and what does it show about them?)
Trait 02 Second Character Trait
Look for internal complexity, vulnerability, moral ambiguity, or calculated restraint
Identify trait
Specific Book & Line Citation
Direct Textual Evidence
Analytical Commentary (why is this trait important to this character, and what does it show about them?)
THE ODYSSEY • CHARACTER DOSSIER Page 1 of 2 — Turn over to complete Trait 3 & The Defense
Part II: Critical Defense & Synthesis | The Crown of the Epic
Homer’s The Odyssey
Trait 03 Third Character Trait
How does this trait steer the plot, test heroic ethics, or define them?
Identify trait
Specific Book & Line Citation
Direct Textual Evidence
Analytical Commentary (why is this trait important to this character, and what does it show about them?)
The Defense: Why This is the Best Character
Argumentative Paragraph
In a well-crafted paragraph below, argue why your chosen figure is the best, most important character in The Odyssey. Draw upon the traits and evidence you analyzed above to defend your claim.
Your Defense Paragraph
Honors Evaluation Criteria • Scoring Rubric Total: 40 Points
| Criterion | Advanced (Honors • 10) | Proficient (8-9) | Developing (0-7) |
|---|
| Trait Insight & Complexity | 3 nuanced traits uncovering inner conflicts, flaws, or motives. | 3 clear traits with solid textual grounding. | Fewer than 3 traits or simplistic descriptors. |
| Textual Evidence & Citation | Precise Book & line citations; high-potency exact quotations. | Accurate citations and relevant supporting quotes. | Vague citations or paraphrasing without lines. |
| Analytical Commentary | Deeply explores significance, motives, and character impact. | Clear explanation of significance beyond plot. | Primarily plot summary; minimal character analysis. |
| Persuasive Defense Paragraph | Compelling, insightful thesis and defense; smoothly synthesizes analyzed traits. | Clear paragraph defending why the character stands out in the epic. | Weak claim or simple opinion unsupported by evidence. |
THE ODYSSEY • CHARACTER DEFENSE Page 2 of 2 — Final Submission