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