THE ODYSSY Essay, Research Paper

Odysseus the Great

Of all the mythological heroes, Odysseus would have to be the greatest. His adventures strengthened him and made him wiser. Although his men assisted him in his warfare, Odysseus was always at the heart of the battle. Odysseus was a true epic hero. He was an inspiration to his men and his peers.

One of the characteristics of an epic hero is superhuman strength and Odysseus? strength is definitely superior. In the story, The Challenge, Odysseus shows his strength by successfully shooting an arrow through twelve ax-handled sockets. Penelope, his wife, created this challenge to insure that she would not have to merry another man. Then Odysseus, disguised as a beggar, asked if he might try to shoot the arrow. Penelope, being displeased with the beggar, gladly said yes. When he proved his strength to Penelope, she knew that it was him.

Another hero characteristic of Odysseus was the power to resist temptation. This was perfectly displayed in the episode of The Lotus-Eaters. When the rest of his men ?longed to stay forever, browsing on that native bloom, forgetful of their homelands?, (Page #602) Odysseus held strong. After finding nothing of use on the island, he and the rest of his men set off on the quest.

My final proof of Odysseus? heroism is his bravery and quick wit. In the story of the Cyclopes, Odysseus prove both of these characteristics be escaping from the Cyclops, Polyphemus. His bravery was displayed when he blinded the monster and did not kill it. He also proved his wit by escaping on the underbellies of Polyphemus? rams. Both of these acts made him a true hero.

These are just three proofs of Odysseus? epic heroism. Whether it was strength, bravery or wit, Odysseus excelled. An epic hero is ?formidable for guile in peace and war? (Page # 655). This was true of Odysseus.