Read this excerpt from The Odyssey.

Question

"Oh, Nan, they are a bad lot; they intend
ruin for all of us; but Antinous
appears a blacker-hearted hound than any.
Here is a poor man come, a wanderer,
driven by want to beg his bread, and everyone
in hall gave bits, to cram his bag—only
Antinous threw a stool, and banged his shoulder!"

Based on previous knowledge of Greek values, what prediction can best be made about Antinous’s future?

Antinous’s friends will rally around him, and he will be victorious in battle.
Antinous will gain great power and win the heart of Penelope at last.
Antinous’s friends will turn on him, and he will suffer for his actions.
Antinous will become a poor man and wanderer like Odysseus.

Answer 1

Based on the values and themes present in Greek literature, particularly in "The Odyssey," the prediction that can best be made about Antinous’s future is:

Antinous’s friends will turn on him, and he will suffer for his actions.

In Greek culture, hubris (excessive pride) and mistreatment of others, especially those who are vulnerable or in need, often lead to dire consequences. Antinous's cruelty toward the beggar, who represents Odysseus in disguise, indicates a lack of respect for the values of hospitality and compassion. This behavior is likely to result in retribution from the gods or others in the story, aligning with the typical narrative outcomes concerning characters who exhibit such negative traits.