Odysseus Essay, Research Paper
Heroes are renowned for their abundance of qualities that enable them to conquer
any problem. Odysseus, from The Odyssey, is no different. He represents the
heroic ideals of Ancient Greece, and is revered for his perseverance, intelligence,
and leadership abilities.
Throughout his journey Odysseus shows vast amounts of perseverance. As
he is swimming towards land, against the tempest sent by Poseidon, he could have
easily given up. After three days of swimming Odysseus reaches land. “All his body
was swollen, and the salt bubbled from mouth and nostrils; breathless and voiceless
he lay in a faint, and awful weariness overcame him.” (71) This is the state
Odysseus was in as he reached shore. After years of not returning home he still
keeps hope alive that he will one day arrive, which is also and example of his
perseverance.
Through his many adventures Odysseus has always been prepared. The
Trojan Horse, the
responsible for getting his men out alive from the Cyclops’ cave. “I tied them
together with twisted withies,… I tied them (sheep) in threes, with a man under the
middle one, while the two others protected them on each side.” (108) This explains
how Odysseus enables the remainder of his men including himself to escape.
Odysseus is also known for his leadership abilities. While commanding his
ship Odysseus had full command of his men even when they were all vulnerable to
Scylla, the six headed monster. “No, no, row as hard as you can, and call for help on
Crataiis-that is Scylla’s mother…” (140) After hearing this his men immediately
return to the oars and row for their lives.
Throughout the book Odysseus displays perseverance, intelligence and his
abilities as a leader. As a representation of the heroic ideals of Ancient Greece he
stands his ground to the heroic ideals of the many cultures of today.