This resource provides a comprehensive bank of exam-style 15-mark questions for OCR GCSE Classical Civilisation: The Homeric World, focusing on the prescribed books for the Odyssey (Books 9, 10, 19, 21, 22).

Questions are carefully designed to:

• Encourage detailed analysis of characters, themes, and narrative techniques
• Reflect OCR exam wording, structure, and assessment style

Cover all key areas of the specification, including:

• Literary techniques (similes, epithets, formulae, narrative methods)
• Core themes (xenia, nostos, fate, justice, deception)
• The character of Odysseus (leadership, intelligence, heroism, relationships)
• The role of the gods and divine intervention
• Key characters (Penelope, Telemachus, the suitors, Circe, Polyphemus, the crew)
• Civilisation vs barbarism and moral judgement

Questions are phrased in a variety of ways (e.g. “How far do you agree?”, “To what extent…?”, “How important…?”, “How far is…”), ensuring students are prepared for any exam-style wording.

This resource does not include model answers, mark schemes, or writing prompts. Instead, students are encouraged to:

• Use their own class notes and knowledge of the text
• Practise selecting and applying relevant evidence from the Odyssey
• Develop independent essay planning, evaluation, and argument skills

So as to:

• Mirror real exam conditions
• Build confidence in recall and extended writing
• Avoid over-reliance on memorised responses
• Encourage deeper understanding of themes and characterisation

Best used for:

• In-class timed essay practice
• Homework and independent study
• Revision and consolidation
• Stretch and challenge for high-achieving students aiming for Grades 8–9