The Odyssey – 6th Grade Reading Worksheet (Free Printable)

This free 6th grade reading comprehension worksheet introduces students to Homer's Odyssey with an informational passage and higher-order thinking questions.

Reading Passage

The Odyssey is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to the poet Homer. It tells the story of Odysseus, a Greek hero, and his long and dangerous journey home after the Trojan War. The journey takes ten years and is filled with monsters, gods, and tests of courage. Odysseus faces the one-eyed Cyclops, the enchantress Circe, and the deadly song of the Sirens. Throughout his trials, Odysseus relies on cleverness rather than just strength. The poem explores themes of loyalty, temptation, and the longing for home. It remains one of the most widely read works of world literature today.

Questions

  1. How long does Odysseus's journey home take? (Ten years / Two years / Twenty years / One year)
  2. Odysseus relies mostly on physical strength to survive his trials.
  3. The Odyssey is attributed to the poet ___.
  4. Which of these is a theme explored in The Odyssey? (Loyalty and longing for home / The dangers of science / City life in ancient Greece / The importance of farming)
  5. Odysseus encounters a one-eyed Cyclops during his journey.

About This Worksheet

The Odyssey is one of the oldest and most important works of Western literature. This worksheet gives 6th graders an introduction to epic poetry and the concept of a hero's journey while practicing nonfiction comprehension skills.

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