Question

Identify the changes in point of view. Whose points of view do you see? How does this add to a sense of sadness?

a) Telemachus and Odysseus; it shows their shared grief
b) Penelope and Eurycleia; it highlights their helplessness
c) Athena and Zeus; it emphasizes their interference
d) Eumaeus and Philoetius; it underscores their loyalty

Answer 1

Literary shifts in point of view can heighten emotional responses, such as sadness, by delving into the internal struggles of characters. They enrich the narrative and allow readers to engage with the story on multiple levels, often questioning the role of fate and the gods.

Step-by-step explanation:

In literature, shifts in point of view can deeply affect the narrative and the reader's emotional response. In the context of epic poetry and tragedy, such as those seen in the works of Homer and the tragedies of Sophocles, shifts in point of view can be particularly poignant. In a story like the Odyssey, the perspectives of Telemachus and Odysseus demonstrate their individual and collective grief, adding layers to the sense of sadness in their prolonged separation. In Sophocles' work, such as Antigone, the focus on individual characters like Antigone and Ismene can illustrate personal tragedy, highlighting feelings of helplessness or the weight of destiny.

The narrative technique of changing points of view allows the audience to see the internal struggles of characters and understand the emotional landscape of the story. When this technique is used effectively, as seen in the works of Euripides, it can lead to a profound psychological understanding of events and characters' motivations, often questioning the influence or indifference of the gods. Overall, shifting perspectives in storytelling enhances character development, emotional depth, and thematic resonance, encouraging readers to engage more deeply with the text.