Throughout The Odyssey, Homer's epic poem, the protagonist Odysseus undertakes a transformative journey that tests his resilience mental and emotional. While facing many challenges and dangers on his way home from the Trojan War, Odysseus experiences significant trauma that manifests as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This essay explores the character of Odysseus and his behavior during the ultimate ordeal, analyzing how PTSD affects and ultimately changes him. By examining Odysseus' actions and reactions at crucial moments in the story, we can better understand the psychological impact of trauma and its lasting effects on an individual's behavior and personality. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayOne of the best-known episodes of The Odyssey is Odysseus' encounter with the Cyclops. Arriving on the island of Polyphemus, Odysseus and his men are trapped in the cave of the Cyclops. In this supreme test, Ulysses must develop a plan to escape and save his crew. However, his actions during this ordeal reveal the impact PTSD has on his behavior. For example, Odysseus' decision to blind Polyphemus rather than kill him outright can be seen as a reflection of his trauma. Blinding the Cyclops allows Odysseus to escape without arousing the Cyclops' suspicions, but it also displays a level of cruelty and vengeance that differs from his earlier character. This change in behavior can be attributed to the psychological effects of previous traumatic experiences, which hardened Odysseus and influenced his decision-making process. Additionally, Odysseus' reckless behavior during his escape from the Cyclops' cave further illustrates his change in mentality. Instead of quietly leaving the cave, Odysseus cannot help but taunt Polyphemus, revealing his true identity and invoking the Cyclops' wrath. This lack of restraint can be considered a symptom of PTSD, as people with this disorder often struggle with impulsivity and difficulty regulating their emotions. Another example where Odysseus' behavior reflects the impact of PTSD is his encounter with the Sirens. When he is warned of the irresistible song of the sirens that lures sailors to their demise, Odysseus hatches a plan to hear their song without succumbing to its deadly lure. He orders his men to tie him to the ship's mast and asks them to ignore his requests for release, emphasizing his determination to resist temptation. This behavior can be understood as a manifestation of the hypervigilance induced by Ulysses' trauma. As a result of his earlier traumatic experiences, Odysseus developed a heightened sense of caution and a deep fear of further danger. Binding himself to the mast is a coping mechanism that allows him to hear the song of the sirens while ensuring his own safety. This change in behavior highlights the lasting effects of trauma on Odysseus' decision-making and risk assessment. Returning to Ithaca, Odysseus faces another significant test as he must reclaim his kingdom and overthrow the suitors who have tormented his house during his absence. This final test of his resilience provides further evidence of how PTSD changed Odysseus' behavior. Odysseus's meticulous planning and strategic thinking during the battle against the suitors highlights his heightened awareness and hypervigilance. He has become extremely sensitive to potential threats, anticipating the actions of his enemies and devising ways to counter them.., 2017.