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The Odyssey · Character

Charybdis

A dangerous whirlpool opposite Scylla that threatens Ulysses' ship on his voyage.

minor

First appearance: book xi visit of ulysses to the land of the dead

See Charybdis in book xi visit of ulysses to the land of the deadBook page

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Character Web

5 connections

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SCScyllaULUlyssesNENeptuneTETelemachusSISirensCHCharybdis

Relationship types

  • Other

Character groups

  • Mythological and Secondary Characters
  • Protagonist
  • Phaeacian Royal Court
  • Mycenaean Royal Family

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Eurycleia’s recognitio…

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See Charybdis in book xi visit of ulysses to the land of the dead