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Heroic Qualities Of Odysseus

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Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey begins by painting Odysseus as a brave and powerful leader and an impulsive decision maker who over time becomes more intelligent; Homer develops these relatable and heroic characteristics through detailed imagery and word choice as well as through symbols and homeric similes which amplify the representation of Odysseus as a normal person as well as a heroic figure. Odysseus’s tendency to succumb to impulsive strokes of curiosity enables readers to relate with his inner character. The protagonist gives into the natural human curiosity to find and fix one's weakness. Circe tells him of the sirens who know the secrets of Odysseus’s weakness, she also tells him that listening to their knowledge is unwise and he along with his crew should close their ears. However, in his impulsivity, Odysseus actually tells his crew to force him to listen while they cover their ears. Odysseus also shows his impulses in regards to thirst for knowledge when he sends two scouts to explore the land of the Lotus Eaters, knowing full well that their chance of return is unlikely. This quest for knowledge could have been in a slower, but more logical and effective way. This shows how Odysseus can easily succumb to less logical ideas if it is a question of his power or knowledge. Another constant in his early story is his portrayal as a daring and fearless figure, often taking control and triumphing over potential threats. Odysseus witnesses two of his shipmates be

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