Book IX · Episode 4 of 5

The trick of Noman

Odysseus tricks Polyphemus, blinds him

Scenes

1. The stake is prepared — Odysseus hides stake, draws lots
   • Cuts a fathom’s length from olive club
   • Men smooth it, Odysseus sharpens the point
   • Hardens the point in the fire
   • Casts lots for four companions to help
   • Approaches giant with cup of dark wine
2. Wine loosens the giant — Polyphemus drinks wine, grows drunk
   • Hopes wine might soften the giant’s cruelty
   • Cyclops delighted, demands more wine
   • Asks Odysseus’ name, promises a guest-gift
   • Fills the cup three times over
   • Each draught dulls the giant’s senses
3. Noman blinds the Cyclops — Men bore stake into Polyphemus’s eye
   • Odysseus names himself Noman to the giant
   • Mockingly promised to be eaten last
   • Cyclops collapses, disgorging wine and flesh
   • Odysseus heats the stake until it glows
   • Howl draws the neighboring Cyclops running