The multi-media source I have chosen for my case study is the 1997 short film series based off of the Odyssey. I believe this source is important in order to present my own narrative in my case study because unlike a book, there is a tangible scene that the viewer sees. While reading a book, the viewer can imagine their own characters and setting in their heads, and this imagined scene is unique amongst everyone. Therefore, when a director chooses to bring their own imagination to a screen, the viewer can find value in analyzing the director’s own creative choices, and it allows the viewer to have another perspective on a narrative they otherwise wouldn’t have if they had just the book. Watching a film gives viewers the opportunity to analyze not only the author’s words, but the director’s choice of lighting, costumes, casting, and any changes to the original story. These small details are worth analyzing because they give more meaning to the story, even if they may seem insignificant.

Within the 1997 film of the Odyssey, Odysseus and Nausciaa’s meeting is very brief when compared to the book. While their meeting takes place over the course of an entire chapter within the book, their meeting is less than a minute within the film. This kind of “show don’t tell” style of story telling exposes a different perspective in Nausicaa’s character when compared to the written book of the Odyssey. While her short appearance is probably done to save on time so more important scenes can be filmed, it brings up the concept that Nausicaa’s actions and bravery don’t need to be narrated for very long. Even within such a short scene, Nausicaa’s actions remain the same. While her slaves cower at the sight of Odysseus, Nausicaa separates from them and approaches him, offering him her help.This shows that her hospitality can be portrayed in any length of narrative, either over the course of a chapter or within a short scene.

The viewer has an opportunity to interpret Odysseus and Nausicaa meeting in a different way when watching the film rather than reading the book. In the book, it is made clear that Athena had much to do with Nausicaa’s hospitality. During the book, it is said that “They ran along the shore quite terrified, some here, some there. But Nausicaa stayed still. Athena made her legs stop trembling and gave her courage in her heart” (6.138-141). Although Nausicaa’s actions were hospitable and brave, she may not have done the same if Athena did not give her courage. However, in the 1997 film, there is no mention of Athena influencing Nausicaa in this scene. Nausicaa immediately rushes to Odysseus’ side, without fear. The choice made by the director to remove Athena’s influence from this scene gives the viewers a chance to analyze Nausicaa’s actions differently and form a different narrative. Instead of being hospitable because of Athena’s blessing, Nausicaa can be interpreted as a naturally brave and hospitable girl, who helps others at any chance. Although both versions of Nausicaa are hospitable and brave, within the book she is guided by Athena’s influence, but in the movie, she is guided by her own principles. A seemingly small difference creates two different characters.