O Brother is a modern adaptation of The Odyssey

1. Elements of an epic poem

1.1. Odyssey

1.1.1. Geographically vast: over seas and on islands

1.1.2. Heroic protagonist: Odysseus is brave and clever and ultimately a good leader

1.1.3. Protagonist is victorious: Odysseus returns home a war hero and marries his wife

1.1.4. Supernatural elements: Sirens, lotus eaters, various gods and immortals, fate play a role

1.1.5. Reflects Homer's culture: issues of how to treat a guest, role of women, relationship with gods

1.2. O Brother

1.2.1. Geographically vast: over roads and railways through South

1.2.2. Heroic protagonist: Everett is brave and clever and ultimately a good leader and husband

1.2.3. Protagonist is victorious: Everett becomes a political think-tank and rock star, returns home to his wife

1.2.4. Supernatural elements: Fate is at play with blind railroad prophet

1.2.5. Reflects modern culture: racism issues, changing gender issues, issues of political corruption

2. TEST

3. The hero/protagonist

3.1. Odyssey

3.1.1. Odysseus faces Polyphemus

3.1.1.1. Stays calm in the face of danger: doesn't kill Polyphemus in the cave, but waits

3.1.1.2. Clever: Comes up with the plan to use the sheep to escape

3.2. O Brother

3.2.1. Ulysses Everett McGill faces Big Dan Teague

3.2.1.1. Stays calm in the face of danger: doesn't run away, but stays quiet and waits for an opportunity to save Tommy

3.2.1.2. Clever: Comes up with the plan to dress as the KK K to save Tommy and escape

4. Antagonist (the protagonist's own pride)

4.1. Odyssey: Odysseus brags and tells his name and address to Polyphemus to show off- leads to his biggest conflict

4.2. O Brother: Everett brags and shows off his money to Big Dan to impress him- leads to a big conflict