Question

but the man skilled in all ways of contending,
satisfied by the great bow’s look and heft,
like a musician, like a harper, when
with quiet hand upon his instrument
he draws between his thumb and forefinger
a sweet new string upon a peg: so effortlessly
odysseus in one motion strung the bow.
then slid his right hand down the cord and plucked it,
so the taut gut vibrating hummed and sang
a swallow’s note (404).

1. type of figurative language

the author is comparing odysseus’
to
the comparison illustrates odysseus’
because

Explanation:

1. The figurative language here is a simile (uses "like") comparing Odysseus to a musician (harper) as he handles the bow, showing his skillful, effortless action with the bow similar to a harper with an instrument.
2. The comparison illustrates Odysseus’ proficiency and ease in handling the bow, just as a musician skillfully manipulates their instrument, highlighting his mastery and the smoothness of his action.

Answer:

• Type of figurative language: Simile
• The author is comparing Odysseus to a musician (a harper)
• The comparison illustrates Odysseus’ skill and ease in handling the bow, because he manipulates the bow with the same effortless proficiency a harper shows when handling their instrument (stringing a new string and playing it smoothly).