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Essay / Trait Characteristics in Homer's Odyssey
Table of ContentsCuse: the art of deceptionBravery: facing the unknownLoyalty: the bonds of friendship and familyConclusionBibliographyThe Ancient Greeks held certain qualities and characteristics in high esteem, and these traits are often reflected in their literature. In Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, the protagonist Odysseus possesses many qualities admired by the ancient Greeks. This essay will explore the characteristics of traits in the Odyssey that correspond to the values of the Greeks, such as cunning, courage, and loyalty. By analyzing specific examples from the text, we can better understand the qualities the Greeks admired and how they contributed to Odysseus' heroic journey. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayCuse: The Art of DeceptionOne of the qualities the Greeks admired was cunning, the ability to use one's intelligence and his wit to outwit his adversaries. Odysseus, throughout his journey, demonstrates remarkable cunning in various situations. For example, when faced with the cyclops Polyphemus, Odysseus cleverly hatches a plan to blind the giant and escape from his cave. He tells Polyphemus that his name is "Nobody", ensuring that when he blinds the Cyclops, Polyphemus' cries for help will be dismissed by the other Cyclops as mere ramblings of madness. This clever maneuver allows Odysseus and his men to escape unscathed. The Greek public would have admired Odysseus' quick thinking and his ability to outwit a formidable enemy. Additionally, Odysseus' cunning is also evident when he returns home to Ithaca. Disguised as a beggar, Odysseus deceives his wife Penelope and the suitors who have seized his palace. Through his disguise, Odysseus is able to gather information about the suitors' intentions and plan his revenge. This cunning tactic showcases Odysseus' intelligence and ingenuity, further emphasizing the Greeks' admiration for such qualities. Bravery: Facing the Unknown Another characteristic that the Greeks admired was bravery, the ability to face and overcome challenges with courage and determination. Odysseus displays immense bravery throughout his journey, facing many dangers and temptations. For example, when his ship encounters the enchanting song of the sirens, Odysseus orders his men to plug their ears with beeswax, but he himself is tied to the mast so that he can hear the sirens' song without succumbing to their deadly attraction. This act of bravery showcases Odysseus' strength of will and his determination to resist temptation in order to ensure the safety of his crew. Additionally, Odysseus shows bravery when he faces the monsters Scylla and Charybdis. Despite knowing the perils that await him, Odysseus brings his ship closer to Scylla, losing six of his men in the process, but ultimately saving the rest from Charybdis' deadly whirlpool. This act of self-sacrifice demonstrates Odysseus' courage and his willingness to make difficult choices for the common good. Loyalty: the bonds of friendship and family The Greeks greatly admired loyalty, valuing the bonds of friendship and family. Odysseus exemplifies this trait throughout The Odyssey, particularly in his unwavering loyalty to his wife Penelope. Despite twenty years of absence, Ulysses remains faithful to Penelope, resisting the temptations of the goddess Calypso and the enchantress Circe. His loyalty is further evidenced in his determination to return to Ithaca and reunite with his wife, regardless of the obstacles he faces. Odysseus also shows loyalty to his crew, even in the face of, 1996.