Set 9: Central Ideas (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The following text discusses an epic poem. The *Odyssey* is one of two major ancient Greek oral epics attributed to Homer. It is, in part, a sequel to the *Iliad*, the other Homeric epic. The *Odyssey* is fundamental to the modern Western canon; it is the second-oldest extant work of Western literature, while the *Iliad* is the oldest. Scholars believe the *Odyssey* was composed near the end of the 8th century BC, somewhere in Ionia, the Greek coastal region of Anatolia. The poem mainly focuses on the Greek hero Odysseus (known as Ulysses in Roman myths) and his journey home after the fall of Troy.
What is the primary subject of the *Odyssey*?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to identify the main point of the passage. Choice C is the best answer. The text explicitly states: 'The poem mainly focuses on the Greek hero Odysseus... and his journey home after the fall of Troy.' This matches Choice C.
Choice B is incorrect because creation myths are not mentioned.
Choice D is incorrect because the gods' origins are not the focus.
Choice A is incorrect because Rome is only mentioned in reference to Ulysses' Roman name. Remember that supporting details help prove the central idea but are not the main point themselves. The author's central idea should be broad enough to encompass the entire passage while still being specific enough to be meaningful. Ask yourself what the author most wants you to understand.
Key Evidence:
• "focuses on the Greek hero Odysseus"
• "his journey home after the fall of Troy"
Why others are wrong: B (Irrelevant - not mentioned), D (Irrelevant - not mentioned), A (Irrelevant - not mentioned).
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