A kids’ guide to Homer’s Odyssey: The ancient story behind the new movie

This children’s article, A kid’s guide to Homer’s Odyssey, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and discover one of the greatest adventure stories ever written. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.

Why is everyone talking about the Odyssey?

You may have heard the name The Odyssey more than usual recently. That’s because award-winning director Christopher Nolan has turned the famous story into a blockbuster film, which is set for release on July 17th. 

The movie stars Matt Damon as the hero Odysseus and features a star-studded cast including Tom Holland, Zendaya and Anne Hathaway.

Although the film is brand new, the story itself is incredibly old. In fact, people have been enjoying it for nearly 3,000 years. So what is this famous adventure all about?

The greatest journey in ancient Greece

The Odyssey is an ancient Greek poem written by a storyteller called Homer. Historians believe it was written around the 8th century BC, although nobody knows the exact date or even whether Homer was one real person or several storytellers.

The story follows the Greek hero Odysseus as he tries to sail home after the Trojan War. What should have been a short journey turns into an incredible adventure lasting ten years. 

Along the way, he battles fierce storms, escapes from a one-eyed giant called the Cyclops, sails past the dangerous Sirens, meets powerful gods and magical creatures, and must use his cleverness to survive.

Unlike many heroes, Odysseus often wins by thinking rather than fighting. His intelligence, patience and bravery help him overcome seemingly impossible challenges.

Why is the Odyssey so important?

The Odyssey is one of the oldest stories still read today. It has inspired thousands of books, films, plays and television shows, and many writers still borrow ideas from it.

The story explores themes that people everywhere can understand, such as family, friendship, courage, loyalty, and never giving up, even when life becomes difficult. That is one reason it has remained popular for so many centuries.

Many famous words and ideas also come from the Odyssey. For example, people sometimes describe a long and difficult journey as “an odyssey” because of Odysseus’s unforgettable adventure.

Why do people still love it today?

One reason the Odyssey has lasted for so long is that it has everything children and adults enjoy: monsters, sea voyages, treasure, danger, clever heroes and exciting escapes. Every chapter brings a new challenge, making it feel like an ancient action-adventure story.

The new film will introduce the Odyssey to a whole new generation. Although some parts of the story have been changed over the centuries, its message remains the same: even the most difficult journeys can be completed with courage, determination and a little clever thinking.

It is amazing to think that a story first told around ancient campfires is still entertaining people almost 3,000 years later.

Article vocabulary list

• Epic: A very long story about great adventures.
• Poem: A piece of writing that often has rhythm or rhyme.
• Hero: A brave person who helps others or overcomes great challenges.
• Cyclops: A giant from Greek mythology with one eye.
• Mythology: Traditional stories about gods, heroes and magical creatures.
• Inspired: Gave someone an idea to create something new.
• Determination: The decision to keep trying, even when something is difficult.
• Adventure: An exciting journey or experience.

Comprehension questions

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