The Odyssey by Homer Reader's Theater Script | Greek Mythology (Adapted Stories)

This reader’s theater script for The Odyssey covers some of the most famous stories from Homer's 700 AD/BCE classic.

This script should take about ~45 minutes to read depending on your classroom's level. Extra time for discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should be planned.

This product includes a docx file (MS WORD) consisting of:

• Grades 7-12 Version (25 Characters, 4700 words, 23 pages)
• Student & Teacher Reader's Theater Tips & Notes
• 10 Comprehension Short Answer/Discussion Questions and 15 Vocabulary Words
• NOTE: All files are in editable DOCX format

This script covers the following select stories in 7 acts:

Act 1: The Call to War and Departure

Odysseus is summoned to join the Greek forces against Troy after Helen is taken by Paris. Despite his desire to stay with his family, he honors his oath and leaves Ithaca. The act details his farewell to Penelope and Telemachus, the assembly of Greek kings, the ten-year Trojan War, and the cunning use of the Trojan Horse, leading to Troy's fall.

Act 2: The Cyclops' Cave

On their return journey, Odysseus and his crew land on the island of the Cyclopes. They encounter Polyphemus, who traps them in his cave and eats some of the men. Odysseus devises a clever escape by blinding Polyphemus and hiding under sheep. However, his pride leads him to reveal his identity, causing Polyphemus to call upon Poseidon to curse Odysseus, resulting in further obstacles.

Act 3: The Enchantress Circe

The crew arrives at Aeaea, home of Circe, who transforms Odysseus's men into pigs. With Hermes's help, Odysseus resists her magic and convinces Circe to restore his men. They stay with her for a year before she advises Odysseus to seek the prophet Tiresias in the Underworld for guidance on returning home.

Act 4: Journey to the Underworld

Odysseus travels to the Underworld to consult Tiresias. He learns about the dangers ahead and the importance of avoiding Helios's cattle. He meets the spirits of his mother and fallen heroes, gaining insights into life and death. The act emphasizes the themes of fate and the consequences of one's actions.

Act 5: The Sirens and the Straits of Doom

Following Circe's instructions, Odysseus navigates past the Sirens by plugging his crew's ears and binding himself to the mast. They face the dangers of Scylla and Charybdis, losing six men to Scylla. Despite warnings, his crew later slaughters the sacred cattle of Helios, leading to Zeus destroying their ship. Odysseus becomes the sole survivor.

Act 6: The Return of Odysseus

Odysseus returns to Ithaca disguised as a beggar. He reunites with his son Telemachus, and together they plan to reclaim their home from the suitors. Penelope tests the suitors with an archery challenge using Odysseus's bow. Odysseus reveals himself after completing the challenge and, with Telemachus and loyal servants, defeats the suitors.

Act 7: The Reunion and Peace Restored

Penelope tests Odysseus to confirm his identity, and they share an emotional reunion. Odysseus visits his father Laertes. The families of the suitors seek revenge, but Athena intervenes to prevent further bloodshed, and peace is restored in Ithaca. Odysseus reclaims his place as king, and the story concludes with the promise of a prosperous future.

General Tips for Using this Resource:

1. Print one, double-sided script for each student
2. For digital classrooms, upload the MSWORD DOC version and convert to Google docs
3. Character roles can be adjusted based on class size; characters can be combined or split as needed

SAVE 50% and get this RT in the bundle below:

Greek Mythology Reader's Theater Scripts Bundle (13)