Odysseus and Polyphemus- after finding Polyphemus’ cave with sheep and cheese (before Polyphemus returns) the men could’ve gone back to the boat. Why did they stay? Also, think about Odysseus’ behavior as they are hastily leaving the island. What trait (s) could he be showing here? Re-read the passage and I think you’ll find a character trait (or two) of Odysseus that creates the conflict with Polyphemus.

Odysseus and The Sirens- What is Odysseus advised to do before encountering the the sirens? What does he choose to do? Why? What trait is he exhibiting?

Odysseus and Scylla/Charybdis – Odysseus and the crew find themselves trapped between a rock and a hard place, so to speak. He knows what he must do even if it means losing some of his men. What trait (s) is he exhibiting?

These are just a few stops on his journey. Go back to some of the other stories with Circe, Calypso, Helios, etc. and see what his words/actions demonstrate about what type of person he seems to be.

Likely your teacher will expect not only some words/phrases that characterize Odysseus, but he/she will expect you to have some concrete examples to support your ideas.