Odysseus Hero Essay

Odysseus Essay
Odysseus
In homer's Odyssey the main character Odysseus is a person who only tries to help himself.
Although he earns the trust of his men while in Troy, he loses it on his perilous journey home.
Many times in the epic he manipulates others, commits foolish acts and is full of hubris. He tries
to take shortcuts and as a result of this is men are killed and his boats destroyed. He plays with the
lives of his men and he is punished for it. Odysseus is not a hero because, he is foolish, lacks
faithfulness and is consumed by his Hubris and selfishness. First, Odysseus is not a hero because
he is a foolish leader who makes many mistakes on his journey back home to Ithaka. His first
mistake is his decision to let his men raid and...show more content...
First, an example of his unfaithfulness to his wife is when on the island of Kirke he was told to
sleep with the evil witch, and he automatically did it without even asking questions. He could
have threatened to kill Kirke or reason with her, but no he took his favorite way out, sleeping
with her. Another time Odysseus was unfaithful to his wife was while on the island of Kylpso he
willingly slept with her countless times over his seven year captivity on the island. Penelope,
Odysseus' faithful wife, never cheated on him once during his 20 year absence in Ithaka. A time
he is unfaithful to the Gods is when he receives the ride home from the Phaeakians he did not pry
or sacrifice anything to Poseidon before his trip if he would have done this he could have saved
the lives of the Phaeakians sailors, who were killed by Poseidon. Finally, Odysseus was unfaithful
to the Gods when he does not except Polyphemos sincere apology and says, " Kyklops, if any
mortal man inquire how you were put to shame and blinded, tell him Odysseus, raider of cities,
took your eye: Laertes' son whose home's on Ithaka!" (IX 548–552). Which shows disrespect to the
Gods by not accepting his sincere apology. Apart from being an imprudent leader, he is also an
unfaithful man who forgets the Gods until he needs them and takes every chance he can get to cheat
on this poor faithful wife.
Finally, Odysseus is also a selfish leader who is full of hubris. An example of
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A Hero Essay : Odysseus As A Hero
Odysseus is a Hero In the Odyssey, Odysseus is quite the legend known to people, whether you
are high up in the sky with Zeus, or deep in the ocean with Poseidon, everyone knows Odysseus.
In the epic poem, the Odyssey told by the one and only Homer, the brave, the godlike human,
Odysseus is finding his way home after the big battle victory against the Trojans. This story is
about his travels home and how he got caught up in other business. Let's just say he stabbed
Poseidon's son, had his crew turned into pigs, faced a six–headed monster and whirlpool, and that is
to say the least. He may as well be on America's most wanted list with all the trouble he was causing.
Even though Odysseus is a troublemaker, he has multiple great characteristics of a leader.
Odysseus, when it comes to his crew and family, is confident, compassionate, wise, and always
knows a way to get out of any problem.
Odysseus is very confident throughout The Odyssey. For example, when Odysseus and his crew are
stuck in the cavern on the island of the cyclops, Odysseus tells the giant his name is Nohbdy in this
quote, "Cyclops, you ask my honorable name? Remember the gift you promised me, and I shall tell
you. My name is Nohbdy: mother, father, and friends, everyone calls me Nohbdy" (9.270–274). This
shows that Odysseus knows his plans always work, and he's confident that the cyclops will fall for
it. This also shows that Odysseus can do anything because of his confidence, even tricking a giant
cyclops

Odysseus: Heroes Essay
Odysseus: Heroes      A hero is a brave and strong person, who is
also very human. A hero feels fear and every other emotion that we do. A true hero is a person who
does something great and does not expect to be given any thing in return. A hero does something
that effects a large number of people. A hero thinks more of others than he or she thinks of him or
her self.      The characters in the poem, "Women", and
The Odyssey are both epic heroes. Odysseus is a strong and brave man, but I think he lacks one of
the major characteristics of a hero. I think he thinks of himself more than of others. I think the
characters in the poem, "Women," are better heroes because...show more content...
     The poem "Women" was a great description of
black women in the mid 1900's. They had many of the traits that Odysseus had, like in the poem the
author wrote, "How they knew what we must know." Saying that they were smart and
knew that they had to make a better life for their children. The women were also strong, but calm,
like when the poem read, "With fists as well as hands." Saying that these women had
fists to fight with and hands write with. These women had a hard time, but they continued to do
great things and do things that were never done by a black person before. These women were true
heroes.      Odysseus and the women in the poem have many
similarities. They are both brave in how they faced things that nobody had ever faced before and
conquered it. Even though they were brave they still had a human flaw. They feared. They would
conquer things, but they were scared through the whole thing. I think the one thing that separates
these two brave and strong characters is the way they see them selves. The women seem to do things

Odysseus: A True Hero Essay
Many think being a hero is having super powers, but on the contrary it's more than that. A hero is
one who is distinguished for their courage and bravery, and looked upon for their great deeds. A
hero like this is not just found in modern society today, but in mythology as well. In the epic poem
The Odyssey by Homer, Odysseus earns the title of a true hero by conveying many qualities such as:
determination, courage and leadership.
As part of the hero profile, one would have to be determined, and Odysseus certainly was. If a hero
is determined, they only have one goal in mind. To be determined, the hero goes through perils and
challenges and most importantly they can never lose hope. Likewise, Odysseus has a goal: to make
it home to...show more content...
A second time would be when Zeus allowed Odysseus to fall into deep slumber. "But while I slept,
the crew began to parley: silver and gold, they guessed, were in that bag bestowed on me by Aiolos'
heart..." (Book X, Lines 39–41). Another way Odysseus shows determination as a hero is when he
wants repossess the control over his kingdom. While on his journey back home, the suitors and
Antinoos have taken over his kingdom. He is determined to get rid of them and take them out
permanently. Like a true hero, Odysseus never lost hope; no matter how bad the situation was.
Another quality of being a hero is, having courage; and Odysseus clearly conveyed this during his
journey. In order to be courageous, the hero has to be fearless, meaning he has to act confident
about his actions. This applies to Odysseus and the deities. If Odysseus were to appear weak, than
the gods may think he's too weak for the journey and won't make it out alive. So, as a way of
showing his courage, confidence overcomes Odysseus and he talks to the gods as if he were one of
them. "After these years...to my harm." (Book V, Lines 183–190). Odysseus shows no fear when
speaking with Kalypso. Also, Odysseus shows more courage when he blinds Polyphemos. He
humiliates Polyphemos, without even thinking of the effects. "Kyklops, you ask my honorable

Odysseus: A Hero Essay
Odysseus: A Hero
Heroism was not an invention of the Greeks. Yet, through the first hundreds years of their
civilization, the Greek literature has already given birth to highly polished and complex long epics
that revolved around heroes. These literature works gave many possibilities of definition of heroism.
The Greeks illustrated heroism to obey the rules laid down by the gods and goddesses, and those who
obey the rules would gain honor and fame. The Greeks regarded intelligence as one of the highest
gifts that all heroes must posses. The
Greeks required that all heroes must have courage. Odysseus, one of the heroes of the epic
"Odyssey" standout. He was constantly expected to be a true hero, always obey the rules laid down
...show more content...
Odysseus posses intelligence as expected in the Greeks' tradition of heroes. Odysseus displayed
intelligence when he went to the goddess Circe to rescue his men who were turned into swine by
the goddess Circe. The goddess spoke to him, "Put up your weapon in the sheath. We two shall
mingle and make love upon our bed. So mutual trust may come of play and love." He was asked
to go to bed with a beautiful goddess, and yet he responded, "Circe, am I a boy, that you should
make me soft and doting now? Here in this house you turned my men to swine; now it is I myself
you hold, enticing into your chamber; to your dangerous bed, to take my manhood when you
have me stripped. I mount no bed of loved with you upon it. Or swear to me first a great oath, if I
do, you will work no more enchantment to my harm.' She swore at once, outright, as I demanded,
and after she had sworn, and bound herself, I entered Circe's flawless bed of love." Odysseus was
asked by the goddess Circe to make love with her in order to build trust between her and Odysseus.
However, Odysseus realized that the goddess wanted to go to bed with him, not to build trust, and as
a result,
Odysseus used his cunning to ask Circe to make a deal in which Circe had to swear to

Odysseus in The Odyssey: Hero or Not? Essay
The majority of those who read The Odyssey consider the protagonist of the story, Odysseus, a hero.
On many occasions, however, Odysseus makes decisions beneficial to himself alone. For example,
when Odysseus and his men find themselves on Polyphemus's island, Odysseus's actions are
self–centered and at the expense of his men. This can be said for most of Odysseus's actions in the
story, as his main objective is to reach his home. Having his men by his side when he returns seems
a trivial thing to him. Odysseus could be considered a hero, but many of his actions say otherwise.
Due to the many unfaithful and self–centered decisions he makes in the story, Odysseus is not a
hero. Emphasizing on Odysseus's time on Polyphemus's...show more content...
His bragging almost results in the death of his entire crew. Odysseus doesn't think highly of his men,
and this is apparent throughout the entire story. One can be judged by their actions, but what truly
shapes a person is their personality. Odysseus is an over–confident and ill–tempered man. On the
cyclops's island, Odysseus's boasting nearly proves costly. A modest and heroic person would have
had his men in mind, rather than himself, and left the island. Also, Odysseus revealing his true
identity to the cyclops could very well have resulted in the death of his men. After Odysseus's
boasting, Polyphemus prays to his father, "Let him lose all companions, and return / under strange
sail to bitter days at home" (Homer 9. (537–8). This prophecy, of course, becomes a reality. Another
sign of Odysseus's over–confidence shows while he is explaining himself to King Alcinous. In
some of his first words to the king, Odysseus again boasts of his accomplishments. "Men hold me
/ formidable for guile in peace and war: / this fame has gone abroad to the sky's rim" (Homer 9.
(127–8). Another very important fact is Odysseus's position on monogamy. Odysseus believes he's
above monogamy, as he stays with many goddesses during his journeys while Penelope stays
faithful at home. A hero is not a boasting, over–confident person, but someone who does their actions
for no reward. In conclusion, many of Odysseus's

Hero Essay : Character Analysis Of Odysseus
Odysseus was one of the strongest characters in this story, he fought for his men and did what he
thought was the best for his family or his men. In this story there were a lot of hero moments that
he was brought upon, but likewise there were also some zero moments where he was selfish and
only thought of himself. One of the main examples that he was a zero moment was that he cheated
on his wife for seven years, even though it was said that everytime he would cheat on his wife. But
on the other had he had some hero moments, one example of that was that he saved his men from
the Cyclopes and none of them were hurt. My opinion on Odysseus isn't really figured out if he was
a hero or zero because he was both of them, one of the main reasons why he isn't really a hero is
because he is really selfish and only thinks of himself and doesn't think of everyone else around him
that might suffer from what is choice might be. When him and his soldiers were trapped in the
Cyclops's cave Odysseus did come up with some really smart things to do in that situation. One of
the good ideas was not telling the Cyclops what his real name is. Instead he decided to tell him, his
name was "no one", so when someone would ask the Cyclops who stabbed his eye he would
respond with "no one" ,and they would just ignore him and not be worried about him. Since the
Cyclopes couldn't see who or what would leave the cave he would feel what would pass him, and
Odysseus realized that he would let the sheep walk passed him. Odysseus came up with a plan to
cover themselves with sheep fur to pass by the Cyclopes without him finding out or eat them.
Since Odysseus and his men got out of the Cyclops's cave they proceeded to go to their ship, it
was a really easy thing for Odysseus to get on his ship and sail away but he did the complete
opposite. He decided that he was going to make fun of the Cyclopes and proceed to tell him what
his real name was. Cyclops's father is the the God of sea whose name is Poseidon. Now that the
Cyclops knows who stabbed his eye he tells his father to punish Odysseus while they were on their
trip back home since they are sailing across the sea. He tells his father that he wants to leave
Odysseus by himself and to kill

Odysseus: The Classic Greek Hero Essay example
An Epic Hero is a person who is a prominent figure in histories and legends. Epic heroes do not
posses super powers, but rely on his or her own attributes to combat some sort of battle that a
typical person could not accomplish. Such Epic Heroes are read about mostly in tall tales, myths,
and legends, but they all own human traits that can relate to the average person. These human traits
make it easy for people, such as the Greek people, to associate with the character. Inside Greek
mythology qualities of braveness, determination, and decisiveness are prized. In Homers' epic poem
The Odyssey, Odysseus' traits are perfectly aligned with the values of the Greek people.
Odysseus' qualities include bravery, his heroism comes from the...show more content...
This shows that Odysseus is self sacrificing and is daring enough to risk all for his men, he would
even risk his own dream of going back home just for his men. This also shows that Odysseus is
remarkable at fending off the fiercest of competitors. Courage and bravery comes easy for Odysseus
who uses it wisely to go back home using his determination.
The determination of this hero is immensely great, through his journey home he faces fierce foe
who test his willpower to go home. Time is a big factor in Odysseus' journey, it takes 20 years for
Odysseus to go back home. This shows that Odysseus is very hardworking and by the end of his
trip is very experienced. This shows that Odysseus is not travel–weary and through his time trying to
get home has not lost his resolve to go home. Likewise a determined hero such as Odysseus does
not let his obstacles overcome him, instead he overcomes his obstacles. This shows that Odysseus
keeps on fighting for what he truly wants. This shows that Odysseus is not phased by obstacles that
an ordinary person would perish in. Twenty years is a long time to get back home, but Odysseus
proves that it is possible to go home if you have determination and guile
Decisiveness is a great quality that Greeks admire and all heroes contain, Odysseus is a prime
example of how good and bad choices make your journey epic. As an example, while approaching
the Sirens Odysseus made the

Is Odysseus A Hero Essay
In book 22 of the Odyssey the question is, is Odysseus a hero? There weren't many heroic
qualities in Odysseus. There is also a conflict of nature vs. reason within the book. For the
essential theme within the Odyssey, we see some examples of reason and nature and the view that
Homer took on each one of these topics. A few important lines from book 22 mark areas of
importance. Based on book 22 it seems to be that Odysseus is not considered a hero. "They all
assumed he had not shot to kill, and had no idea how tightly the net had been drawn around them."
Odysseus looked at all of them and said "you dogs! You thought I would never come home from
Troy. So you wasted my house, forced the women to sleep with you, and while I was still alive you
courted my wife."(B22 ll34–41) Odysseus was the one who caused them this death. Hero's are
usually not the ones to kill. Here Odysseus is being described as a wily fighter meaning he lacks
being prejudice. He can be described as being malicious or prejudice. These are not heroic character
traits. Odysseus then goes on to explain why he wanted to kill the suitors. In lines 39–40 the suitor's
actions were not considered admirable but I'm no so sure why they would be considered
punishable by death. In todays society it is not acceptable, much less heroic. Eurymachus is
pleading with Odysseus and what Odysseus says back is clearly disproving him as a hero.
Eurymachus says that all of the suitors will pay Odysseus back for the

Essay on Odysseus the Hero
The definition of a hero is unique for every individual; however there are several regulations that
majority of individuals can agree on. A hero must exhibit traits such as humility, kindness, and
courage. Once the candidate expresses hubris, displays cruelty, or retreats from a formidable
challenge, he cannot be considered a hero. Lastly, a hero candidate must overcome challenges that
defy the odds. He must deliver a gift to society that benefits society as a whole; such gifts can be
freedom, liberty, or hope. Odysseus in The Odyssey, by Homer, fulfilled these requirements and
rightfully earned the title of a hero. Odysseus is well deserving of the title hero because he has put
the needs of others before his own, shown signs of...show more content...
Also, he saves majority of his crew's lives by choosing to pass Scylla and Kharybyis: "the opposite
point...too (Book XII, 119–130)." He comprehends that he would be risking his whole crew by
going through Kharybdis's path or losing only 6 men by choosing Scylla's route. A larger amount
of guilt would be brought upon his shoulders if he had lost all his men by risking everyone's life.
Lastly, Odysseus makes decisions that will restore Ithaka to its original state. Knowing that suitors
have infected Ithaka and their regime has taken place, Odysseus purposely disguises himself to
maintain the element of surprise. He has to defeat over one hundred suitors in combat, but heroes
defy the odds when facing their greatest challenges. Odysseus's greatest challenge would have to be
killing all the suitors towards the end of the epic poem: "The shrewd fighter...be (Book XXII,
360–366)!" He is the only one capable of liberating Ithaka from the infectious suitors. With both
Athena and Zeus supporting his revenge, Odysseus defeated the suitors. When encountering
challenges, Odysseus displays vast amounts of courage that assist in overcoming the various
obstacles. A constant physical bravery must be present when battling monsters and gods on this
journey. For example, Odysseus must cross the paths of a petrifying Kyklops. He maintains a
faГ§ade that shows no fear: " I tied

odysseus: an epic hero Essay
Is Odysseus An Epic Hero?
Is Odysseus, the main character of Homer's The Odyssey, really an epic hero? An epic hero
embodies several heroic traits such as; having superior or super–human strength; being intellectual
and courageous; and being a strong and responsible leader. An epic hero struggles and is
overwhelmed with difficulties. An epic hero is on a quest of self discovery, war or some sort of goal.
In the Odyssey, Odysseus is on a quest to return home to Ithaca after ten years of war in Troy.
Odysseus, during his quest, is forced to venture through a merciless Cyclops, angered Gods, deeply
obstinate Goddesses, the underworld, and determined suitors that are after his wife Penelope.
Odysseus surmounts...show more content...
Polyphemus is startled to see Odysseus and his men. Polyphemus snatches two men and makes
his meal. Odysseus wants to take his sword to Polyphemus but knows if he kills him now he
won't be able to escape because of the giant boulder. The next day while Polyphemus is pasturing
his sheep, Odysseus finds and hardens a wooden staff. When Polyphemus returns, Odysseus
offered Polyphemus some wine. "'Here, Cyclops, drink some wine after of human flesh, and see
what sort of liquor our ship held. I brought it as an offering thinking that you might pity me and
send me home. But you are mad past bearing. Reckless! How should a stranger come to you again
from any people, when you have done this wicked deed?' So I spoke; he took the cup and drank it
off, and mighty pleased he was with the taste of the sweet liquor, and thus he asked me for it yet
again:
'Give me some more, kind sir, and straightway tell your name...'
'Cyclops you ask my noble name, and I will tell it; but do you give the stranger's gift, just as you
promised. My name is Noman. Noman I am called by mother, father, and by all my comrades'"
(86). Odysseus tells Polyphemus his name is Noman to ruse him. Odysseus soon gets Polyphemus
drunk. Odysseus takes the staff and blinds Polyphemus. Polyphemus removes the boulder and asks
for help from the other Cyclops. "Then in his turn from out the cave big Polyphemus answered:
'Friends Noman is murdering me by craft. Force there is none.'
But answering him in winged words they

Odysseus As A Hero Essay
An epic is defined as a long narrative poem describing the noble and courageous deeds of a hero.
Similarly, a hero is denoted as an individual who can be seen as a role model, maintaining qualities
and characteristics worth looking up to and hoping to achieve. Odysseus, being the main character of
Homer's epic The Odyssey, is given the title of a hero by these definitions. He is the center of
attention throughout the poem and the people of Ithaka speak of him as if he has god–like qualities.
However, when his decisions and intents are examined deeper, it is clearly discernible thatOdysseus
is acting out of his own hubris and self–centered nature, taking unnecessary risks as he travels home
due to his elite status among mortal men....show more content...
She speaks with the god, telling him of "'...[their] absolute purpose, the homecoming of enduring
Odysseus, that he shall come back'" (I: 86–87). Her allegiance is not explicitly stated until later,
when she reveals her true form to Odysseus and says, "'...and yet you never recognized Pallas
Athene, daughter of Zeus, the one who is always standing beside you and guarding you in every
endeavor'" (XIII: 299–301). Odysseus is aware of this favoritism Athene has of him, as almost all
people, mortals and immortals alike, revere him. Throughout his journey, he travels wherever he
wants and takes whatever course of action he wishes to because he knows he has a goddess on his
side. He abuses her power, believing he is entitled to divine help at all times, testing the limits of
others and invading their land. For example, on the island of Thrinakia, he had been previously
warned that if he or his men kill the cows belonging to Helios, Odysseus will lose all of his crew
members. Instead of heeding this warning, he and his men become hungry and cannot control
themselves. Since Odysseus knew that he would lose the men, a man with the nature of a hero
would have tried harder to deter them. He knew that his men would become hungry, staying on an
island where there was little other food, yet he did nothing. His thoughts were not with his crew – a
simple indication of his

Odysseus : A Hero As A Hero
Odysseus tends to use strategy over strength to be a hero when it comes to challenges. Instead of
beginning with fighting the Cyclops, he takes his time and sets up a plan. Everytime he enters a
new island, he does not start telling everyone that he is Odysseus, king of Ithaca. Instead, he charms
the people he meets and uses his wise words that cause them to help and pity him. Odysseus
represents what being a hero is actually all about. Throughout the novel The Odyssey by Homer,
Odysseus continuously shows his personality of being an admirable hero to everyone by using
strategy instead of strength. When Odysseus becomes trapped in the Cyclops, Polyphemus's, cave,
he realizes that now is the time to use his strategy rather than strength. It all starts with his
'libations' to the Cyclops. Odysseus consistently gives Polyphemus wine "to top off the banquet of
human flesh [he has] bolted down!" which is the crew members that Cyclops has eaten ( 9. 222).
The most crucial part of Odysseus's plan is when he tells Polyphemus his name is "Nobody– so my
mother and father call me" (9. 223). This particular name that he tells Cyclops helps him escape
the other cyclops on the island. Once they stab Polyphemus's eye with a burning hot stick, the
other cyclops wake up to ask him if anyone else is in there with him. Polyphemus, thinking that
Odysseus's name is actually 'Nobody', tells them that 'Nobody' is in there with him, While
escaping death from the cyclops, Odysseus also blinds the cyclops, and saves the rest of his crew.
Odysseus chose to use his strategy in place of trying to use his strength which would not have
helped him escape. In this situation, strength is no use, seeing as the cyclops is ten times as
strong as him. Odysseus displays a praiseworthy hero in more than one way. Again, he uses
strategy over strength every time he lands upon a new island. Once Odysseus lands on new,
unknown lands, he does not run to the king and queen telling them his name and entire life story.
He knows that bragging and being rude will not get him very far. When he enters King Alcinous's
castle, the first thing he says to the queen is, "I come to beg you for mercy" (7. 184). He knows that
by saying this they will have sympathy

Essay On Odysseus
For the Ancient Greeks, Odysseus was seen as a great hero. Also known as Ulysses to the
Romans, was a very important character in Homer's The Odyssey. He was the father of
Telemachus, and spouse of Penelope. He was the great King of Ithaca. The Ancient Greeks
perceived Odysseus as a hero due to his intelligence, his capabilities, and how the ancient beliefs of
heroism distinguished him. Odysseus' intellect helped create a hero image for the Ancient
Greeks.Throughout the story Odysseus continuously uses his intelligence and manipulation to get
himself out of trouble. For example, In Book Nine of The Odyssey, Odysseus is telling a story oh
how The Cyclops asked Odysseus his name and he replied "Nobody–that's my name"(9.410).
Odysseus and a...show more content...
Odysseus fit perfectly to the early ideas of the heroic. The Ancient Greeks believed heroes to be
honorable, noble, strong, and intelligent. Odysseus showed these qualities when Calypso offered
him the chance to be immortal. Though the offer tempted him, Odysseus declined. The fact that
Odysseus declined something that most people would kill for, shows he is honorable and loyal to
his family. It shows he would rather go back to Penelope and Telemachus, the people that need him,
rather than stay alive forever with a "bewitching nymph". In addition, Odysseus followed many of
the "qualifications" the Ancient Greeks had for war and glory within heroism.
Ancienthistory.abc–clio.com states, the Odyssey insists that Odysseus–aided by his patron Athena,
goddess of victory (Od. 13.386–88)–masterminded the stratagem that doomed Troy: the Trojan
Horse." The Trojan horse was a plan that helped the Greeks defeat the Trojans in the Trojan war.
The Ancient Greeks saw Odysseus as a war hero as he highly influenced the Greeks win in the war.
Futhermore, Odysseus was seen as a role model to the Ancient Greeks. Ancienthistory.abc–clio.com
says, "heroes generally enshrine within themselves qualities people generally admire." Odysseus
impressive qualities were seen as a goal for the Ancient Greeks, they wanted to be more like him.
Odysseus was a hero the ancient Greeks for multiple reasons. He was a

Odysseus: Hero or Villain Essay
Lizeth Marin Honors Introduction to Literature Period 3 18 April 2008 Odysseus: Hero or Villain?
Heading home, to Ithaca, Odysseus is faced upon many obstacles that he and his men try to
overcome, but in the end substantiate that Odysseus is a villain. "The old soldier in despair: He has
spent ten years (seven of them as Calypso's not entirely unwillingly captive) trying to get home"
(652, summary). Evidence proves that Odysseus is a villain, because he tries to convince that he was
kept unwillingly by Calypso. However, it is true that Odysseus was kept as Calypso's captive for a
time. Yet he can still be judged as a villain, because he does not just stay as a prisoner, no, he
assists Calypso by being with her for the pleasures that...show more content...
Odysseus has no reason to save his men's lives but for his own convenience. Finally, Odysseus is
home and after a long journey in which he shows no heroic actions and yet proves to be nothing
but a villain, he once again proves throughout his actions that he is a villain. Odysseus is finally
home, on Ithaca, and is then helped by Athena and disguises himself as an old beggar. He proves
then to be a villain by seeking his revenge for the suitors and maidservants that once betray him
(696, summary). Another way in which Odysseus shows he is a villain is when he finally reunites
with his wife Penelope and reacts with rage when she tests him. This reveals Odysseus is a villain
because he reacts as if he was innocent and some way being betrayed by his own wife. Of course,
though, he never tells his loyal wife Penelope about his love affairs with Calypso and Circe. In
conclusion, Odysseus throughout his actions proves to be not only veil but a villain. He leads his
men into trouble, kills the suitors and maidservants without mercy, and betrays loyal wife. This
allows readers to truly see Odysseus other side. He was a villain and there is no doubt about it.
However, think about his so called heroic actions and the way he made everything work out for his
own benefits. He knew he was a villain and somehow still got away with

Odysseus: A Hero Essay
When we hear the word 'hero,' more than one idea comes to mind. Not only do we think of
people that we look up to in our world, but we also think of heroes in the fictional world. To be a
hero can mean a variety of different things. Leaders, singers, and even parents can be a hero that
someone looks up too. But in the fictional world, a hero is someone who has learned from his or hers
journey to come out a changed person. Some characters complete the journey, while others do not
quite make it to the end. In The Odyssey, Odysseus takes more than one leap of faith on his journey
to become a hero by learning from his mistakes, making personal sacrifices, and becoming a better
man. After making mistakes, Odysseus realizes his wrong doings...show more content...
Throughout his journey, Odysseus is put in positions that challenge him mentally and physically.
Sometimes, these trials require sacrificing personal values and items before he can overcome them.
Like on Kirke's island, Odysseus makes a sacrifice very few would: "She will cower and yield her
bed– a pleasure you must not decline" (X, 334–335). To free his men, Odysseus gives in to
temptation not because he wants to, but because he is willing to put forward his self to get out
them all out of this situation. Even though his men got themselves changed into swine, Odysseus's
courage and thoughts of home is what frees them from their curse. This shows that the son of
Laertes will surrender what is his, to keep the people around him safe. In another part of the
journey, his crew mates even ask him if he is "flesh and blood...to endure more of a man can" (XII,
358–359) because he tells them not to land on Thrinakia. But when Odysseus sees that his crew
does need the rest, he submits and tells them to land. Here, Odysseus knows of the dangers and
temptations that lay ahead of them if they land, but he agrees to it because his crew needs to regain
their energy to continue. Although the outcome of his decision was fatal for his crew, his choice
shows that he would risk their journey to keep his men in healthy condition. Near the end of the
book, Odysseus makes another sacrifice needed to keep things quiet. He tells the old nurse "Be

A Hero Essay : Odysseus As A Hero
What makes a hero a hero? A hero is by definition "someone who is typically identified with good
qualities, and with whom the reader is expected to sympathize." Does Odysseus fit the title of
heroism? Debi Mazar an American actress once said, "A hero is somebody who is selfless, who
is generous in spirit, who just tries to give back as much as possible and help people. A hero to
me is someone who saves people and who really deeply cares." Odysseus fits those qualities of a
hero. Odysseus is a character in the book The Odyssey created by Homer he is meant to represent
heroism, but does he really contain the qualities of heroism? The qualities he contains are
foolishness, arrogance, and hatefulness. In other words, Odysseus is very foolish throughout the
book. Homer, book 10. p.916 says, "...while Odysseus is sleeping the men open the bag, thinking it
contains gold, and silver. The bad wind thus escapes and blow the ships back to Aeolus' island. The
King refused to help them again, believing not that their voyage has been cursed by the gods."
Consequently, Odysseus was foolish by not telling his crew about the winds and being selfish being
stealth about the winds knowing the curse that could be set on their ships. Homer, book 9.Lines
125–132 he creates another example of Odysseus' foolishness. "My men came pressing round me,
pleading: 'Why not Take these cheeses, get them stowed, come back, throw open all the pens, and
make a run for it? We'll drive the kids and lambs

How Is Odysseus A Hero
A hero accepts who he is as an individual, but strives to change himself for the better. In the epic
poem, The Odyssey, by Homer, the main character Odysseus is a valiant king who embarks on a
life–changing voyage. While traveling from Troy back to his home in Ithaka, King Odysseus
overcomes daunting obstacles, and in doing so discovers his place in the world. Odysseus is truly a
heroic figure because he demonstrates courage, improves his character, and wins the support of the
gods.
Odysseus is a hero because he acts courageously while facing the many challenges he encounters.
Odysseus's shows great bravery when he engages in physical challenges. Odysseus daringly fights
against the suitors, while significantly outnumbered: "For I must...show more content...
He is stricken with hunger and longs for nourishment, but he is able to triumph over this temptation
by remaining mentally strong: "One day I withdrew to the interior / to pray the gods in solitude, for
hope / that one might show me some way of salvation" (XII, 426 – 428). Instead of giving in to
temptation, Odysseus heroically prays to the gods. In addition to physical and emotional
challenges, Odysseus faces intellectual challenges, and is able to overcome these challenges with
quick thinking. Odysseus must utilize his cunning wit when he devises a plan to surprise the
suitors in an attack, and hide their weapons: "I / shall signal to you, nodding: at that point / round
up all armor, lances, gear of war / left in our hall, and stow the lot away" (XVI, 335 – 338). This
challenge tests Odysseus as a tactician, and he is able to succeed with intellectual valor. Odysseus
encounters a mental challenge when he is on the Land of the Kyklopes. He quickly tells
Polyphemos that his name is "Nohbdy", and then once the Polyphemos is stabbed, the other
Kyklopes think that "Nohbdy" hurt him. Then, Odysseus and his men are able to escape on the
underside of sheep. Odysseus bravely risks the lives of his men and himself. Odysseus overcomes all
these challenges, using his physical, emotional, and intellectual abilities. The courage he displays in
each of these instances makes him more heroic.
Furthermore, Odysseus deserves to be called a

Odysseus, A Hero Essay
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 of such a person is Odysseus from Homer's "Odyssey". Odysseus is idolized for his
few heroic deeds during the Trojan War and his journey home to Ithaca. He is often thought of as a
hero, but, as he is human and therefore subject to human...show more content...
Even in the bleakest of situations, Odysseus did not give up. For example, when the crew landed
on the Island of the Sun, Odysseus, who knows that his crew is prophesied to perish there, warns
his shipmates that their stores of food are on their ship and that they musn't eat the catle of the
sun god, Helios, or they will all pay dearly for it. To the very end, Odysseus was dedicated to his
companions and even tried to save their lives, although Odysseus already knew they were
prophesied to perish. It was this dedication to quest and companions that made Odysseus and
ideal leader. Together, these and Odysseus's other positive traits and deeds may lead people to
consider him a hero. Now, if Odysseus's character could be defined by only his admirable
qualities and heroic deeds, then he could be considered a true hero. Alas, there is so much more
to Odysseus than just that. He also possesses some other, less than favorable characteristics.
Odysseus does not fit the mold of a true hero because he is not perfectly of good character and
also, like all human beings, possesses some less than favorable qualities. What I mean by less than
favorable is that the qualities are not neccessarily those that you would associate with the "perfectly
good" being. For example, you probably do not associate the characteristics merciless, reckless, or
cruel with your favorite fictional hero.Those are characteristics of the classic villain, aren't they? My
point is, each of those

Odysseus was a very robust individual who was obligated to leave his kingdom of Ithaca to
embark on a journey to fight the battles of Greek and win over Troy. To do this, he was required
to leave behind his newborn son Telemachus, and his wife Penelope the Queen. The war lasted 10
years, and once the battle was over Odysseus and his fleet split and attempted to sail back to Ithaca.
There, he was favored by Athena, goddess of handicrafts, learning, and the arts, and despised by
Poseidon, god of the sea. His journey back home went off track and Odysseus eventually returned
home after 20 years. Throughout the journey, Odysseus encountered many different situations in
which he made some respectable choices, but the poorer ones landed him in a...show more content...
Odysseus even went to the land of dead in order to get his men back from Circe, the goddess of
magic, who turned all of Odysseus' men into pigs. "She drugged it with wicked poisons to make
them forget their homes, and when they had drunk she turned them into pigs by a stroke of her
wand, and shut them up in her pigsties." (Homer 120) The fact that he risked his life to save his
men even after all the obstacles he encountered proves that Odysseus made difficult but respectable
and considerate choices. There were many instances in which Odysseus made poor decisions
throughout the expedition, but the worst one was after he landed in Poseidon's son's island and fed
on Polyphemusin, the King of the Cyclops' food. Soon after the incident, Odysseus and his crew
were imprisoned in Polyphemusin's lair as sustenance. "Rolled a huge stone to the mouth of the
cave– so huge that two and twenty strong four– wheeled wagons would not be enough to draw it
from its place against the doorway." (Homer 106) Odysseus and his men waited until the Cyclops
fell asleep, and once he did, they drove an axe into Cyclops' eye and blinded Polyphemusin. (Homer
110)" This infuriated Neptune, because Polyphemus was his son. Entering an unknown lair
impacted Odysseus for a decade. "All the gods had now begun to pity him except Neptune, who still
persecuted him without ceasing and would not let him get home." (Homer 4) Neptune's ongoing
grudge resulted in Poseidon becoming focused adversary

Odysseus Hero Essay

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