Activity Overview
Themes, symbols, and motifs are valuable aspects of any literary work, and they add richness to stories. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to analyze without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements. For best practices, see our supplementary article with specific lesson plan steps on setting up your classroom and activities to teach themes, symbols, and motifs.
In the classroom, students can track the themes, symbols, and motifs that Homer uses throughout The Odyssey, analyzing examples and the significance of themes.
Themes to Discuss
Greek Hospitality
Throughout his journey, Odysseus and his men are continually tossed into different settings. On each island, they believe that they are entitled to the custom of Greek hospitality. Hosts are expected to provide food, shelter, and protection to any traveler, and guests are expected to be respectful and grateful in return. In The Odyssey, breaking these rules brings misfortune and the disfavor of the Gods.
Temptation
During the epic journey not only is Odysseus tempted, but his men are as well. Each time they approach a new land, the temptations become stronger. Giving in to these temptations prevent Odysseus and his crew from reaching Ithaca for many years. Temptations they encounter include seduction, immorality, greed, and food.
Brains over Brawn
A prominent theme in ancient stories is the use of wit over brute strength. In Odysseus’ case, although he possesses the strength to win battles, the ability to outsmart his enemy is his most valuable asset. A great example is his escape from Polyphemus’ cave.
Motifs and Imagery to Look For
Loyalty
Odysseus continually struggles with his men's disobedience. They show their loyalty to Odysseus much of the time, but, especially when they are faced with temptations, they disobey his direct orders.
Seduction
Over and over again, the men and Odysseus are seduced by various temptations. Examples include Circe, Calypso, the Sirens, and the Lotus-eaters. All these seductions tempt the men to stay, rather than return to Ithaca.
Disguises
Disguises play a significant role in concealing the characters' identities. The particular act of disguising comes primarily in the form of magical help from the gods, or from the enchantment of a spell.
Tests/Trickery
Epics commonly include trickery or a test of the hero and his followers. This shows the mental strength of the hero, and allows them to earn the rewards needed to reach their goal.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in The Odyssey. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Identify the theme(s) from The Odyssey you wish to include and replace the "Theme 1" text.
- Create an image for examples that represent this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | Needs Improvement | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Theme(s), Symbol(s), and/or Motif(s) | All themes are correctly identified as important recurring topics or messages in the story. Symbols are correctly identified as objects that represent something else at a higher level in the story. Motifs are correctly identified as important recurring features or ideas in the story. | Most themes are correctly identified, but others are missing or incomplete. Most symbols are correctly identified, but some objects are missing or incomplete. Some motifs are correctly identified, but others are missing or incomplete. | Most themes are missing, incomplete, or incorrect. Most symbols are missing, incomplete, or incorrect. Most motifs are missing, incomplete, or incorrect. | No themes, symbols, or motifs are correctly identified. |
| Examples and Descriptions | Quotes and examples are accurate to the theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) that are being identified. Descriptions accurately explain the theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) and highlight their significance to the story. | Most quotes and examples are accurate to the theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motifs that are being identified. Descriptions mostly accurately explain the theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s), and highlight their significance to the story. | Most quotes and examples are minimal, incorrect, or unrelated to the theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) that are being identified. Descriptions contain inaccuracies in their explanations, or do not highlight their significance to the story. | Examples and descriptions are missing or too minimal to score. |
| Depiction | Depictions chosen for theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) are accurate to the story and reflect time, effort, thought, and care with regard to placement and creation of the scenes. | Depictions chosen for theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) are mostly accurate to the story. They reflect time and effort put into placement and creation of the scenes. | Depictions chosen for theme(s), symbol(s), and/or motif(s) are inaccurate to the story. The depictions may be rushed or show minimal effort, time, and care put into placement and creation of the scenes. | Most depictions are missing too many elements or are too minimal to score. Little time or effort has been put into placement and creation of the scenes. |
| English Conventions | There are no errors in spelling, grammar, or mechanics throughout the storyboard. All writing portions reflect careful proofreading and accuracy to the story. | There are a few errors in spelling, grammar, and mechanics throughout the storyboard. All writing portions show accuracy to the story and some proofreading. | There are several errors in spelling, grammar, and mechanics throughout the storyboard. Most writing portions do not reflect proofreading or accuracy to the story. | Errors in spelling, grammar, and mechanics in writing portions of the storyboard seriously interfere with communication. |
How To Teach Symbols and Motifs in The Odyssey
Describe Symbolism and Use of Motifs
Introduce the idea of symbols and motifs in literature to begin. Talk about the ways in which authors employ these components to enrich the tale and deliver deeper meanings. Teachers can give other examples from simpler works of literature to get students started.
Recognize Symbols and Motifs
Give the class a list of the major themes and symbols from "The Odyssey," such as the sea, the journey, disguise, and hospitality. Describe each's significance. Teachers can also give the students some basic recognition tips.
Utilise Visual Aids
Share illustrations or creative interpretations that serve as visual representations of these symbols. Students may be able to better understand the symbols and their significance with the help of visual aids.
Contextual Use Analysis
Help students locate scenes where these patterns and symbols exist. Ask them to consider how the symbols contribute to the significance of those scenarios.
Analyze Universal Relevance
Organize talks about the ways in which the symbols and motifs of "The Odyssey" connect to universal human experiences and feelings. Teachers can talk about these symbols and motifs in general terms and hold a discussion surrounding personal experience and real-world relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Themes, Symbols, & Motifs in The Odyssey
Why is the epic's focus on homecoming important?
Odysseus' yearning for Ithaca, his birthplace, and his battle to get back together with his family and take his rightful place in society are both reflected in the theme of homecoming.
How does the culture of ancient Greece relate to the issues in "The Odyssey"?
The themes in "The Odyssey" highlight ideals that were significant in ancient Greek culture, including honor, hospitality, and the interaction between mortals and gods.
How does the epic use the motif of disguise?
Characters like Odysseus employ disguise to assess the loyalty and intelligence of others. It also conveys the notion of shifting identities and the difficulties in being recognized.
Why are xenia and hospitality common themes in "The Odyssey"?
The theme of hospitality illustrates how crucial it was to ancient Greek culture to treat visitors with respect. It also acts as a means of evaluating the virtue of characters.
What benefits may we derive from recognizing themes, symbols, and motifs in the literature we read?
Readers can enjoy the richness of the tale, pick up on underlying themes, and empathize with the characters and their struggles by comprehending these literary components. They can also help open up the imagination and introduce students to a world full of wordplay and interesting subjects.
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