Odysseue The True Helo

A detailed Summary of Odysseue The True Helo

If one were to only have a very fit and strong body, lacking mental ability; to the Greeks it would not suffice. If a man were merely smart and intelligent, without much physical capability, the Greeks would feel that he is not complete. To hold the title "Epic Hero," a man must possess the qualities that would distinguish themselves from all others. In Homer's The Odyssey, Odysseus is the character who breaks the mold of the other mortals. He portrays character traits that superseded those of his crew mates. With his determination to succeed in his quest, his immense strength, and wise hearted; bold attitude Odysseus aquiered the name hero. The poet, shows through all Odysseus' encounters, that he must use both his strength and wit to surpass them. If a man does not have a sound, mind, and body, he will suffer. Odysseus depicts a fine Mythic Epic Hero by portraying features that help him triumph over his enemies and finally arrive back to Ithaca.

Odysseus has perception to accomplish his mission, and getting back to his homeland Ithaca is very important to him. He illustrates courage to go on in his journey, and gains perseverence on the way. Odysseus is proud and leaves no job undone

has the wisdom and tenacity to get through his most horrid situation.

fight Scylla to help his men avoid horrible deaths. He got through even the most rugged pool of water; men were sacrificed but his strength helped him coupe and keep going. His strength was also useful when he had to string his bow in order to win Penelope from the suitors and kill them all (pg.948). Odysseus was at advantage though, being the "son of Laertes" he inherited his strength and respect from the people, through his father. Yet, still by experience gained endurance, and by fighting

gained vengeance, all to get home; back to were life was good.

The story portrays how an individual's characteristics can affect the outcomes of their life. Nonetheless, Odysseus survives all that happens to him. His courage, wisdom, intelligence, endurance, determination, and strength enable him to come through each and every difficulty and bring him home safely.

The wisdom and bold attitude of Odysseus helps him survive throughout the poem. For example, when Odysseus kills the Cyclops with his ever so illusive plan..."Nohbdy"! In which he tells the one-eyed creature that his name is Nohbdy, when sounded out sounds a lot like nobody. While the giant is sleeping, Odysseus' men thrust a fiery stick into the giant's eye, causing him to raise a terrible cry of pain drawing the attention of his brothers. The other Cyclops however do not rush to help him fore he is yelling... "Nohbdy has tricked me, Nohbdy's ruined me!" The next morning, the hero and his companions manage to escape by hiding themselves below the bellies of the rams. This example which could be found on pg. 907 (II 319-322) shows Odysseus in action outwitting his enemy at a critical time, by using his most faithful trait of wisdom and boldness. Odysseus displayed wisdom when in the goddess Circe's territory. With his bold actions and ready words he tried to rescue his men, who had been turned into swine by her. The goddess spoke to him, "Put up your weapon in the sheath. We two shall mingle and make love upon our bed. So mutual trust may come of play and love" pg. 921 (II 66-68) He was asked to go to bed with a beautiful goddess, and yet he responded, "Circe, am I a boy, that you should make me soft and doting no

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Approximate Word count = 1525
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English