O Brother Study Guide

Name:
O Brother, Where Art Thou?
Viewing Guide

1. List at least 3 specific characters in the film (other than Ulysses Everett and his family) who could be seen as parallels to characters in The Odyssey. List both the film character and their Homeric parallel, then explain why you think they can be seen as parallels.

Character in Film: Character in Odyssey: Reason:
1. ____________________ ______________________ ______________________________

2. ____________________ ______________________ ______________________________

3. ____________________ ______________________ ______________________________


2. Describe Ulysses’ character in the film. What is he like as a person? Give a few specific examples to explain your reasoning. How is he similar and/or different from Odysseus’ character in The Odyssey?







3. How does Penny’s treatment of Ulysses during his absence contrast with the way Penelope acts in The Odyssey while Odysseus is gone?






4. In the film, Ulysses lies to Pete and Delmar, letting them think there is a real treasure. How is this similar to the way Odysseus acts toward his men in The Odyssey? Which one is worse, do you think?







5. How does Ulysses feel about spirituality and faith in the film? Are his feelings proven to be valid in the end? How does this compare with the way Odysseus felt toward the gods in The Odyssey?