Development Unit: The Odyssey
What does it mean to be powerful? In this unit, we will examine various power structures and how they function in The Odyssey using the thematic ideas of gender, roles, and social norms related to xenia, or Greek hospitality. We will examine the power dynamic created by cultural customs and the interactions between mortals, monsters, and gods, and we will look at the power structures present in gender roles. We will explore how these imbalances of power shift throughout the poem and create conflict that develops both the plot and the characters. At the end of the unit, we will write an expository essay explaining how power dynamics and social structures function using the thematic ideas of gender, class, or xenia.