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Criticism Of The Odyssey

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The Odyssey is an epic narration composed by a man named Homer in around 800 BCE. Originally in Ancient Greek, it has since been widely translated and distributed, making it one of the oldest and most famous texts of Western civilization. Written as a poem, it serves as a sort of sequel to the Iliad, which tells the story of war, gods, and heroes. With the conclusion of the fantastical Trojan War, however, the heroes must return home. The Odyssey tells that story, of a man named Odysseus, a hero who is simply trying to return back home. Homer is the quintessential hero, and undoubtedly paved the way for future heroes of Western (as well as world) literature. He is depicted as heroic, intelligent, courageous, and, of course, beloved by the gods. …show more content…

Indeed, The Odyssey has been translated into 27 languages for the first time after 1950, making it widely accessible to contemporary readers worldwide. Not only that, but these translations pave the way for even more potential regarding Homeric studies, being analyzed through non-Western canons and cultures (Scully 470). This serves well for the globalectical analysis which will be conducted later on. This paper will by no means attempt to prove the justification for the international recognition of Homer’s The Odyssey as a well-deserved classic, but instead will analyze the perennial if not obstinate will to continue resuscitating this tale. The Odyssey is deemed a classic novel precisely because of cultural tendencies to reinvent popular texts, attaining popularity in the first place because of its malleability into contemporary hits and relatable themes which connect with each generation. In order to help understand its significance within the Western canon as a worthy piece of literature, this paper will examine readership in academic spheres and identify the patterns which emerge from scholarly sentiments. In addition, this paper will study a tale written by an inspired fan (vis-à-vis scholarly interpretation), as well as an entire …show more content…

His brother Poseidon reigns over the seas, while the third brother, Hades, rules the Underworld as caretaker of the dead and departed souls. Then there are the moderate gods, those who are powerful but not high up enough on the cosmic order of things – they are often regarded as The Twelve Olympians. Other major deities of this order include Hermes, Ares, Hera, and Aphrodite, among others. Athena, for example, is a rival of Poseidon, and a mentor of sorts to our hero Odysseus. She is known for her wisdom, intelligence, and is often sought for her guidance. She is also considered the goddess of war and strategy. Lowest on the cosmic ladder are the minor gods, such as Iris or the Muses. These gods and goddesses play a supporting role with the gods and their endeavors to maintain equilibrium over the worlds. They are often depicted as carrying out errands for the major gods or interacting with the humans in their arts and culture.
There is a socio-political significance in the text which lends itself to be considered a classic among analysts of government and civil affairs. Government lends way to culture as real politics are portrayed in this text. The adherence to the cosmic hierarchy is portrayed particularly well by Athena, or Athene as she is referred to in the text. Athena is constantly seeking to assist Odysseus by working in cooperation with Zeus. At the very beginning of the epic it is she who pushes for

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