1. In "The Odyssey" by "Homer" - How does Penelope show her intellectual capabilities and cunning?

2. What is the comparison being made in this epic simile from “The Odyssey”
“…its crackling roots blazed and hissed – as a blacksmith plunges a glowing ax or adze in an ice-cold bath and the metal screeches steam and its temper hardens – that’s the iron’s strength – so the eye of Cyclops sizzled round that stake.”

Thank you :)