MODULE 2 Video - Troy 2

Summary

In this week's session of the online course on the Odyssey, the instructor introduces key themes and characters while guiding students on note-taking strategies. Students will explore Books 1 and 2, with a focus on Odysseus as a complex hero and wanderer facing challenges in his quest to return home. The instructor emphasizes the importance of using a specific translation of the text and encourages engagement through weekly office hours. Through an analysis of the opening lines, the instructor highlights Odysseus's struggles and relationships, particularly with Calypso and Penelope, setting the stage for the adventures to come.

Takeaways

• 😀 This week focuses on starting the Odyssey and includes videos to support learning.
• 😀 There is an assignment on note-taking to enhance skills for understanding the text.
• 😀 Readings are referred to as 'books' but are essentially chapters, with specific assignments to follow.
• 😀 Students are encouraged to complete assignments in order for better comprehension.
• 😀 Weekly drop-in office hours are available for students to ask questions and discuss the course.
• 😀 The Odyssey's text can be challenging, and students are reassured that it's a shared experience.
• 😀 The course uses a specific online translation of the Odyssey for all students.
• 😀 Important themes include Odysseus's character as a hero and a wanderer.
• 😀 Key characters such as Calypso and Penelope are introduced, emphasizing their roles in Odysseus's journey.
• 😀 The opening lines of the Odyssey set the stage for understanding Odysseus's struggles and adventures.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of week two in the online course?

The primary focus of week two is reading the Odyssey, specifically books one and two, and enhancing note-taking skills.

How does the instructor suggest students approach their note-taking?

The instructor encourages students to reflect on their usual note-taking methods and compare them with the suggested techniques provided in the course.

What is the significance of the opening lines of the Odyssey discussed in the transcript?

The opening lines introduce Odysseus as a complex character, a 'man of many resources' and a wanderer, setting the stage for his adventures and challenges throughout the epic.

What resources does the instructor provide for reading the Odyssey?

The instructor provides a specific online translation of the Odyssey for all students to use, ensuring a shared text for quoting and analysis.

What role do the gods play in Odysseus's journey as mentioned in the transcript?

The gods, particularly Poseidon, significantly impact Odysseus's journey, with Poseidon harboring a grudge against him that complicates his return home.

What are the weekly office hours, and how can students participate?

Weekly drop-in office hours are held every Monday from 2 to 4 PM Eastern Time via Zoom, where students can join to ask questions or discuss course material.

Why does the instructor mention the character of Penelope?

Penelope is highlighted as a fascinating character who manages her home and son while fending off suitors during Odysseus's long absence, showcasing her intelligence and strength.

How does the instructor plan to guide the reading of the text?

The instructor plans to read and discuss sections of the text together, emphasizing important lines and their implications for understanding the overall narrative.

What are the challenges associated with reading the Odyssey as noted by the instructor?

The instructor acknowledges that the Odyssey can be difficult to read due to its age and different style compared to modern literature, but emphasizes its rich adventures.

What is the purpose of the assignments for this module?

The assignments are designed to help students practice and strengthen their note-taking skills and engage deeply with the text as they read.