Odysseus is a man of many ways. He has seen numerous cities and has learned the minds of countless people (Book I: 1 – 4). He is glorious. Zeus calls him godlike, greatest among other men in mind (Book I: 65). Athena and Hephaestus taught him the arts of war and carpentry, respectively (Book IV: 233). He sacrificed more to the gods of heaven than any other mortal and thus, he is loved by all the gods. Additionally, he is a noble father and is as just and kind to his subjects as to his own kin. He
makes a hero a real hero? We know what a hero is we know Batman, Superman, Iron man, Captain America, Wonder Woman, and even Wolverine. We also know our everyday heroes firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, and even political leaders. We also know all of our favorite book characters. Sometimes we even think of ancient heroes, great warriors of old, but have our expectations changed since then? After all we know some of these “heroes” just for slaughtering their enemies. Do we define these
Evidence that, for Odysseus, welfare takes precedence over pride does not mean that the other is of no value to him. In a later episode, Phaeacians, wishing to test his athletic abilities, accidentally insult him (Book VIII: 159 – 164). The text insinuates that the Greek immortals consider this hero-like pride as a virtue as it is Athena herself that praises his discus-throwing as something that can never be matched by any other Phaeacian (Book VIII: 198). I interpret this event in this fashion because
The “Heroic” Odysseus The Odyssey is an epic tale of strength, courage, nobility, knowledge, and confidence reflected in a numerous amount of characters. The poem is centered on the most obvious candidate for a hero, Odysseus. However, many argue that he is, in fact, not a hero. He does not do things for other people out of the goodness of his heart, he does not consider other people’s values and needs, and he is self-centered and arrogant. There is also a difference between Odysseus having the
Is there such a thing as a true hero? Or are those that are considered "heroes" just regular people who made the right choice at the right time and became idolized for it? To be a true hero, the person would have to be totally good. It is impossible for a human being to be totally good because weaknesses, character faults, and the tendency to make mistakes are all rooted deeply into human nature. Therefore, no human being can ever truly be a hero, though we may do heroic deeds. A well known example
Merriam-Webster defines a hero as, “A person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities.” For Odysseus to be a hero this definition is supposed to fit and describe him and his character, but why does this definition not describe or fit him and his character? This is because Odysseus is not a hero. Odysseus has done unethical things on his journey that makes him a person that should go unadmired. For example, when Odysseus ignored the death of his man in order to make more progress on
As with pride, the gods also seem to consider glory to be of significance. The Greek heroes certainly regard it to be worthwhile. Likewise, Odysseus too pursues it with gusto. However, there appears to be a major difference between Odysseus` definition of glory and Achilles` definition. While the Iliad, suggest that Achilles regards glory as something that a warrior gains by thrusting a spear through some esteemed enemy`s throat, Odysseus appears to regard it as if it holds a twofold meaning. First
A Homeric epic hero is considered to be above a normal human being. The traits of a typical epic hero are strength, loyalty, courage, and intelligence. In fact, the Macmillan Dictionary for Students defines a hero as "one who is admired and looked up to for valor, achievements, and noble qualities" (483). Odysseus fulfills all of the requirements for an epic hero and more. He demonstrates his ability to be an articulate speaker, and his poise aids him on his journey. His endless curiosity has gotten
What comes to mind when you hear the word hero? Bravery? Courage? Selflessness? When you hear hero, you may think of Harry Potter who saved the world seven different times. You may think of Superman, and how he defeats the villains. You may think of Malala Yousafzai, who put her life on the line for her education. You may think of your mom, who cares and supports you unconditionally. God may come to mind, who continues to show mercy and forgiveness every day. These are all perfect, stereotypical
"Ulysses" and "The Lotos Eaters" The great hero Odysseus has captivated readers throughout the ages. It is no surprise that the Victorian poet Tennyson not only read the Odyssey but wrote poetry about Odysseus as well. In the poems 'The Lotos Eaters' and 'Ulysses,' Tennyson remains true to the legends, but he infuses the characters with the ethos of his own day and his own experiences. 'The Lotos Eaters' recalls the Homeric legend that has Odysseus and his men passing through an island that