Read the excerpt from Part 2 of The Odyssey.

Question

Neither reply nor pity came from him,
but in one stride he clutched at my companions
and caught two in his hands like squirming puppies
to beat their brains out, spattering the floor.

What does the simile add to the passage? Choose two answers.

a description of the Cyclops’ home
a comparison between Odysseus and his men
an image of helplessness
a visual image of the Cyclops’ pets
a comparison between the men and innocent animals

Answer 1

The simile adds to the passage by providing:

1. an image of helplessness - The comparison to "squirming puppies" emphasizes the vulnerability and powerlessness of Odysseus' men in the face of the Cyclops.
2. a comparison between the men and innocent animals - This simile highlights the innocence and defenselessness of Odysseus' men, likening them to unsuspecting and innocent creatures rather than warriors.

These elements contribute to the overall tone of danger and despair in the encounter with the Cyclops.