Odysseus is known all over the world as one of the most outstanding models of leadership anthemed in the literature of the ancient world. This hero represents an idealistic vision of state Homer. In the following paper, Odysseus’ character shown by Homer in his immortal “The Odyssey” along with his ethics will be compared to an image of an idealistic ruler shown in Hollywood movies. Comparing and contrasting the two eidolons it becomes evident that differences between them are significant; however, evaluating these two portrays of leadership a conclusion can be still made that there exist numerous parallels between them which shows that the concept of ideal leadership does not change with the duration of time.
Main body
The ancient hero Odysseus can be mentioned among the most famous rulers elegized in ancient literature. He possesses a row of the most important qualities which makes it possible for him to be a great example for the ruler of any existing state. Odysseus is shown as a good-looking and strong man of middle age. This man is full of practical wisdom who knows when to act, and how particularly to do this in order to attain his goals in the best way possible. Odysseus is a real hero brave and courageous enough to do his best for the well-being of his close ones and his citizens. The king is not only wise and intelligent; he is also cunning as he knows well how to organize the things around him in a way that helps solve urgent problems in the best way. He knows how to destroy his enemies to the extent when they will be crushed forever never to rise to act their terrible things again. He is also a wise economist knowing how to use his recourses in the most efficient way no matter how limited they are. More than this, Odysseus is also a man of incredible power having not many competitors able to be well-deserved corrivals for him. One more important and valued point about Odysseus is the fact that he is an exemplary family man loyal to his wife despite all the temptations and the other possible obstacles threatening their marriage happiness. All of this makes Odysseus a perfect image of the best ruler of all ages affecting people’s imagination even nowadays. For this reason, it is no wonder that the image of an idealized ruler shown in popular culture nowadays has so many parallels with Odysseus.
Modern-day culture has created its own portray of a perfect leader often shown in different pieces of modern art. Of course, the most “convenient” so to say a piece of modern art where humanity may learn about this image is film-making art. Numerous movies especially those produced in the genre of fantasy depict an ideal leader able to save humanity from different threats of global scale coming from the most varied sources such as natural disasters, epidemics, and even other civilizations. In these films, the image of the ruler greatly resembles the image of Odysseus. We usually see such a ruler as a handsome man of middle age full of energy and vigor which he incessantly uses until he solves the problem his people face. This man is intelligent and wise enough to develop the most complicated strategies and make the most important decisions as urgent as it is important for any particular situation. This man is known for his virtues as he is noble and kind. He is shown as an exemplary family man. He is also well-educated and knows all the important information necessary for his successful work ranging from economics to science. Overall, it is evident that this image resembles Odysseus to the fullest extent which appears to be very unusual judging from the point of view of the period of time to pass. Of course, there exist some slight deviations in the image of the modern ruler. For example, nowadays, he is not shown as having outstanding physical power, but this is not important reflecting on the technologies which became possible nowadays. As a result, the ruler needs to be intelligent rather than strong in order to accomplish one’s tasks.
Evaluating the ethics purposed for guiding the ruler during Homer’s days and the one represented in modern-day culture it should be stated that it did not change greatly even after thousands of years to pass which is really remarkable. Odysseus’s ethics rests on the principles of democracy and liberation. He is ready to do his best to provide the people of his land with freedoms and rights making their life rewarding and meaningful. He does his best in order to organize the state system in such a way that will guarantee good living conditions for all the people of the land. Odysseus does not forget about the afflicted people. Whenever he hears about someone’s grief he is ready to give a helping hand. In modern-day culture, popular ethics for a governor also relies on democratic principles. It is expected that a good ruler will provide the representatives of all the social layers in his country with equal opportunities and rights. Such a ruler will also provide the basis for helping those oppressed and deprived on the reason of their personal circumstances. Odysseus’s ethics also reset on the basis of liberalism. As a result, his people feel respected and valued, they are free to develop their state helping it become one of the richest and the most developed Hellenic states. Similar characteristics are essential for the image of a modern-day ruler. This idealized image is shown as possessing all the necessary qualifications and organizing abilities that will help him develop equal conditions for all. Such a person is able to assist his people in making their lives rewarding and full of benefits. This ruler knows how the well-being of every particular citizen of his land is important for the prosperity of the whole country. Given these points, the ethics shown by Homer, and the ethics depicted in idealized movies of popular culture during our days have a lot in common which proves that Homer put eternal wisdom which never fades to his immortal piece of literary art.
Conclusion
Concluding on all the above-discussed information, it should be stated that Odysseus’s image depicted by Homer a few thousand years ago appears to be actually even nowadays. Comparing this image to the concepts shown in varied pieces of modern-day art it appears that it has numerous parallels with the idealistic image of a perfect ruler. Popular movies especially fantastic ones depict an excellent ruler just as Homer did in his ingenious “The Odyssey”.
References
H., & Lombardo, S. (2000). Odyssey (a ed.). Hackett Publishing Company, Inc.
The Odyssey is one of the oldest and most well-known epics in the world. The work remains relevant and is often used to draw comparisons between the ancient and modern worlds. This can be attributed to Homer’s ability to describe the culture and life of the people of the ancient era with quality and detail. There are stark differences between the world of ancient Greece and the modern one. In particular, the Greek belief that one’s fate and standing in society depends on fate and gods opposes the contemporary self-made American culture.
The epic is filled with elements of mythology, culture, and the daily lives of ancient Greeks and Romans. Throughout the chapters, the Greek Gods are shown as active participants in the poem, directly affecting the journey and life of Odysseus and his crew (Homer 236). They decide whether he succeeds in his journey or fails under the weight of the trials they bestowed upon him. In the epic, they are not portrayed through the eyes of the characters but rather are active characters themselves.
Thus, the Odyssey shows the reliance of ancient Greeks on religion and the Olympic Gods, who could control and change the fates of people. The pantheon of gods in which the ancient Greeks believed is now considered only myths, while for them, they were patrons existing in all spheres of life. Although religion still exists today, it is strikingly different from the one described in the Odyssey. In addition, many people do not subscribe to any religion, believing they are the makers of their fates.
In summary, the Odyssey depicts the culture of the long-gone world of ancient Greece, which is strikingly different from the modern world. The religion of ancient Greece no longer has a place in the world, with other religions having little similarities to it. Furthermore, today, one’s fate and success in life are not ascribed to divine intervention but to their own ability, competence, and perseverance.
Work Cited
Homer. The Odyssey. Translated by Robert Fagles, Penguin, 1996.
The books Sophocles II and The Odyssey provide intriguing stories that various authors have translated to reach diverse readers. Sophocles II contains different plays, while on the other hand, The Odyssey is a great epic of Western literature translated by the acclaimed classicist Robert Fagles. This study compares these two books about influence, allusion and contrast to develop how the two relate.
Sophocles II and The Odyssey relate to each other from different perspectives. For instance, allusion is common within the two books. The allusion is a figure of speech where an item or incident from a different context is subtly or indirectly referenced. In the Battle of Troy, the conflict Odysseus enlists in and his sufferings there are depicted in the Iliad. References often describe specific characters and aspects of them in the play, such as Odysseus’ bow. Penelope’s hand is one of the allusions in The Odyssey that offers the reader a comprehensive picture of who Odysseus was and how powerful he was. This tale follows Odysseus as he prepares his bow and shoots an arrow at 12 axes, an accomplishment only he could do (Homer 333). This aspect highlights his war heroism and archery expertise, a talent Odysseus only possessed in Ithaca. Because Odysseus could string the bow and demonstrate the supremacy and powers that he alone had, exposing his identity, the story of the bow serves as a metaphor for him.
The allusion is also widely used in the book Sophocles II; the Greek writer Sophocles used allusions to power and punishment, captivity, conflict, and death in his play Antigone. Greek mythology is primarily referenced in Antigone because the play’s plot centers on the gods (Sophocles 777-780). Throughout the play, many of the characters in Antigone refer to or solicit assistance from the gods. Creon is where Antigone’s final allusion appears; his persona is reminiscent of the Greek tragedy from the latter half of the sixth century B.C.E. During this period, Athens was a great and powerful nation, subjugated and oppressed neighboring Greek communities everywhere. Because they dispersed their power too thinly, the empire fell; with greatness comes a fall. Creon represented Athens because it was a great force that oppressed its people everywhere. They were oppressive, just as Creon was oppressive and disobeyed the gods’ orders. Creon had the power to avert the tragedy dealt to him, but due to his allegiance and throne-hungry nature, he fell just as Athens did in the past.
Sophocles II and The Odyssey also relate to each other in the sense that both books have a fundamental influence on literature and drama today. Since it was composed in the eighth century BCE, Homer’s The Odyssey has tremendously influenced literature. The drama engages the audience on several levels, shifting it from a straightforward adventure story to one that places a strong focus on cultural values and setting numerous precedents for future Western epic poetry (Homer 33). A ground-breaking work that continues to have an impact on literature today is produced through the use of narration, repetition, and structure. The poem engages its reader through genre, and this engagement gives The Odyssey its enormous influence.
The Odyssey is an epic poem, a well-known tale of a hero’s quest and contact with the gods, told in a formal poetic format. Both The Odyssey and The Iliad set numerous precedents for later Western epic poetry. The writing of the Odyssey is in a dactylic hexameter, a rigid poetry form alternating one long and two short syllables. The coining of the “heroic meter” or “meter of the epic” was after The Odyssey. The Odyssey established the convention for using epithets and prolonged similes in subsequent epics, sometimes known as epic or Homeric similes.
Sophocles II also has had a significant influence on playwriting since its creation. Ancient authorities attribute several significant and minor theatrical developments to Sophocles. His creation of “scene paintings” or other visual elements to construct a setting or mood is among the latter. He might have also expanded the chorus’ number from 12 to 15 people (Tikkanen). The addition of a third actor to the dramatic performance was Sophocles’ most notable innovation. Adding a third actor to the stage allowed the playwright to expand the number of his characters and the range of their interactions. Previously, it was legal for two performers to “double” or take on different roles throughout a play. Thus, the dramatic conflict’s range may be expanded, the plot could be more fluid, and the circumstances could be more complicated.
Contrast is also a common practice within the two books; the basic goal of contrast is to emphasize concepts and clarify their meanings so that readers can easily follow a narrative or argument. Writers strengthen their opinions by using opposing and contrasting ideas, which makes them more memorable for readers, owing to the attention placed on them. In The Odyssey, there is a high use of contrast; Odysseus embodies every essential quality of a Homeric hero. Because of his strength, ingenuity, and confidence, he makes a fantastic leader. Odysseus, however, has several weaknesses, such as his continual quest for glory paired with excessive pride that occasionally causes him to become blind in his travels (Homer 313). The Odyssey’s Book IX organization is a sequence of flashbacks that describe Odysseus and his companions’ travels. As Odysseus recounts his battle with the Cyclops to the Phaeacians, it becomes clear how intelligent and clever Homer’s hero is. He is charming, a strong leader, and has the capacity for deception and meticulous planning. However, Odysseus’ encounter with Polyphemus reveals how arrogant and stupid the hero of The Odyssey can be.
In Sophocle II, Antigone depicts a contrast between two people and the values they represent. The confrontation between secular and religious values, state and individual, the public and the private, is the subject of the drama Antigone. The tragedy of Sophocles depicts a conflict, but it’s not one between the divine and humanity; rather, it’s a fight between two different ways that society interacts with and attempts to embody the divine. Even though it is illegal in Theba, burying Polynices is a virtuous deed in the eyes of the gods. But Antigone’s attitude is not the only one with a religious undertone; in the play, Creon’s attitude seems to be something God has approved. The chorus announces the coming of the new king of Thebes in Sophocles (155–161), right before Creon’s edict is issued. It is very evident from the poem that Creon has full control over all of his legal and political actions because of his position of authority. Antigone and Creon’s different approaches to the gods make them stand in opposition.
To sum up, the books Sophocles II and The Odyssey represent different early writings that have tremendously influenced literature and drama today. Through the introduction of new ways to write drama and characterization, books have been essential in learning early literature. Both books employ allusion to convey their message and use contrast to ensure the readers are entertained and glued to the stories. Early writing is insightful, enhances a learner’s writing ability and sentiment, advances one’s thinking ability, and improves aesthetic taste.
Sophocles, and Richmond Lattimore. Sophocles II: Ajax, Translated by John Moore; The Women of Trachis, translated by Michael Jameson; Electra, translated by David Grene; Philoctetes; Translated by David Grene; the Trackers, Translated by Mark Griffith. 3rd ed., University of Chicago Press, 2013, ISBN: 9780226311555
Our group perceives leadership as a complex concept that includes several essential dimensions. In our definition, good leadership is a skill that requires practice, which is shown by supporting and guiding others toward a common goal. In this regard, the quality of leadership is exemplified by having integrity and setting a strong example for others without being overbearing. Given these criteria, one can claim that the greatest Achaean warriors and kings were relatively poor leaders. Achilles, Agamemnon, Odyssey, and others, frequently prioritized personal glory over the common good, ignored team members’ opinions, and acted recklessly. As such, The Iliad, The Odyssey, and Agamemnon, the famous Ancient Greek plays, changed our understanding of leadership. In particular, we have become assured that good leadership is impossible without integrity and mentorship, while vanity and arrogance will likely result in a painful downfall.
The crucial role of integrity is evident from the conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles that caused great grief to the Greeks. Agamemnon and Achilles violated the principle of integrity by letting an interpersonal honor-related dispute escalate into a heated argument. On the one hand, Agamemnon chose the worst-possible option of maintaining his honor by taking the rightful prize from Achilles, the strongest hero in the Greek ranks (The Iliad 1. 118-350). In this regard, he violated the fundamental principle of the army organization, as other heroes saw that Agamemnon did not respect his warriors. Moreover, Agamemnon greatly insulted the man desperately needed to defeat the Trojans, showing that personal honor and glory are more important to him than victory in war. On the other hand, Achilles’ reaction to Agamemnon’s arbitrariness was rage-driven, almost childish. The greatest Greek hero left the army and prayed for suffering and death to his former brothers-in-arms (The Iliad 1.162-492). In the end, the lack of integrity sabotaged the war effort, costing the Greek army dearly. Overall, the conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles demonstrates that a leader must see the bigger picture and preserve organizational integrity at all costs.
Furthermore, an interaction between Athena and Telemachus in The Odyssey demonstrated the importance of mentorship in leadership. Athena’s influence ignited Telemachus with a determination to find his father and take a stand against the obnoxious suitors residing in the Odyssey’s estate. Athena instructs Telemachus to help Oddysey find his way home so he can “lay his hands on all these shameless suitors” (The Odyssey 1. 252-254). Being a powerful goddess, Athena could exterminate the suitors with no effort. Instead, she inspired Telemachus to begin his personal journey toward achieving personal growth and manhood. Without Athena’s mentorship, Telemachus would either continue to live at the mercy of suitors or would not become a determined, motivated young man. In this example, a leader can see that they should mentor their subordinates and help them achieve personal and professional growth instead of doing all the work themselves. In this respect, good mentorship is an essential leadership aspect since it helps nurture a new generation of leaders capable of serving the organization and its staff.
Finally, the story of Agamemnon told in The Iliad and Agamemnon taught us that a capable leader must remain humble and self-aware. In Agamemnon’s example, one can see that arrogance and vanity pose a great threat both to a leader and his projects. Throughout his journey, Agamemnon’s pride and sense of superiority constantly get the better of him, resulting in one wrong decision after another. The Iliad offers the most notable examples, such as an argument with Achilles that undermined the integrity of the whole Greek army. However, a brief appearance in Agamemnon exemplifies the true extent of the famous warrior king’s arrogance. When Agamemnon returns home with glory and victory, he says to Clytemnestra that setting foot “on rich embroidered silks” is dangerous for a mortal because that will anger the gods (Agamemnon 920-930). However, Agamemnon easily gives in to Clytemnestra’s flattery and goes inside the palace alone, “treading on purple” (Aeschylus, Agamemnon 950-960). Despite his initial claims. Agamemnon believes that his feats in the Trojan War are worthy of the gods. Ultimately, Clytemnestra exploits her husband’s arrogance to lure him into a trap and murder him.
Overall, our group’s revised understanding of leadership includes three key insights from the epic Athenian plays. Most importantly, a leader must pay the utmost attention to the preservation of organizational integrity. All interpersonal conflicts that may emerge must not be turned into a public argument; personal pride and honor must not supersede the common goal. Furthermore, quality leadership is impossible without mentorship since a good mentor improves subordinates, thus making an organization stronger. Finally, good leadership is incompatible with arrogance and vanity because an arrogant and vain leader ultimately loses touch with reality. As a result, their judgment becomes clouded, which increases the probability of grave mistakes. In the end, one should remember that exceptional competence does not automatically turn a person into a leader. As a complex concept, leadership must be constantly practiced and developed. Otherwise, a leader may share the fate of the Greek heroes, excellent warriors, who suffered because they were too proud, stubborn, and arrogant to admit their faults.
Works Cited
Aeschylus. Agamemnon. Translated by Philip Vellacott, Penguin Classics, 2004.
Homer. The Iliad. Translated by Caroline Alexander, Ecco, 2016.
Homer. The Odyssey. Translated by Emily Wilson, W. W. Norton & Company, 2018.
Attributed to Homer, the Odyssey is one of the great Greek epics focusing on the life of Odysseus. The masterpiece describes the life of Odysseus and his journey especially after the infamous fall of Troy. Throughout the ten years, he takes before reaching Ithaca, many people are forced to believe that the hero is dead. Consequently, Odysseus wife must deal with a number of suitors who want to marry her.
One outstanding fact about Odysseus is that he is the main hero of the epic (Homer 121). That being the case, Odysseus possesses many exemplary qualities as an epic hero. Incidentally, he possesses various attributes and qualities that either benefit or affect him throughout his journey to Ithaca. This discussion outlines the outstanding qualities possessed by Odysseus.
Odysseus’ Exemplary Qualities and How They Benefit Him
To begin with, Odysseus is always persistent. This kind of attribute makes it easier for him to achieve his potentials. The poem shows clearly that the hero was away from his beloved wife, Penelope, for a period of around 20 years. Throughout his journey, Odysseus encounters numerous challenges, obstacles, and temptations thus affecting his goals (Homer 58). Despite such obstacles and temptations, the epic hero works tirelessly in an attempt to return back home to his son, Telemachus, and wife (Homer 98).
In Book 9, the poem shows clearly that Odysseus focuses on his goal despite the adversities facing him. For instance, he stands firm against the allure of every lotus eater (Homer 72). He also encourages his crew members to focus on the journey ahead of them. The possession of this attribute explains why he eventually realizes his goals. According to many readers, Odysseus might have swayed along the way if he did not possess this quality.
The epic goes further to introduce another unique attribute of Odysseus. It is notable that Odysseus remains a good master planner throughout the masterpiece (Homer 136). This happens to be the case because he finds it easier to hatch and execute new plans. It is also notable that most of his plans are long-term in nature. This is a clear indication that Odysseus doe not ruin his plans by being impatient or nervous. This attribute is what makes it easier for Odysseus to rescue himself from Polyphemus. By so doing, the hero realizes his goals and objectives at the very end.
Most of the Greek epics indicate clearly that physical strength and ability to fight are critical attributes of every hero (Homer 53). In Book 23, the reader observes clearly that Odysseus strings a bow that most of Penelope’s suitors were unable to use. This is a clear indication that Odysseus had great energy and physical strength. This kind of strength plays a positive role in bringing him closer to Penelope. Throughout the journey, his strength makes it easier for him to survive despite the major obstacles facing him.
It is agreeable that Odysseus has intellectual capabilities. This kind of intelligence makes him superior and complicated than the other people in the masterpiece. Using his intelligentsia, Odysseus evaluates every situation before making the most desirable decisions (Homer 142). He also employs the use of logic before making his final choice. This kind of quality works in his favor thus making it easier for him to guide his followers and address the issues affecting him.
The other unique attribute possessed by the epic hero is that he is self-disciplined. Odysseus’ decision not to eat the lotus is a clear indication that he is disciplined. This kind of discipline guides him throughout the journey. The practice makes it easier for him to overcome a wide range of obstacles that might have made it impossible for him to go back to his family (Homer 149).
The epic shows clearly that Odysseus had his own code of conduct. Incidentally, the majority of the characters in the epic do not appear to possess such a quality. Throughout his adventures, Odysseus maintains his self-discipline and reexamines every situation in an attempt to act accordingly. He contemplates most of the time in order to ensure every decision is beneficial to him (Homer 109). The possession of this quality explains why Odysseus is always pleasing and interesting to most of the people around him. This quality attracts the attention of many characters in the epic.
It is agreeable that Odysseus is courageous. Since he is energetic, Odysseus commits himself to his ultimate goal. He courageously faces and addresses every situation facing him. It is because of this courage that the character vows to return home and reunite with his wife. He believes strongly that his return to Ithaca will make his life meaningful and worth living (Homer 209). This fact explains why Odysseus treats every step as a powerful test that must be faced courageously. He focuses on the best ideas and calculations in order to achieve his goals.
The other unique attribute is that Odysseus is always aware of his cultural values. For instance, it is agreeable that Odysseus’ desire for victory is a strong attribute driven or guided by his cultural values (Homer 117). The world depicted in the Odyssey does not have justice or punishment. That being the case, the use of power is treated as the best approach towards realizing every goal. The story of Odysseus indicates clearly that only the strong members of society eventually survive or realize their goals. This cultural affiliation also exposes another attribute of the leader. The epic shows clearly that Odysseus focuses on only two choices. This means that he should either earn victory or die in the process.
For instance, the epic shows conclusively that the ultimate outcome is in Odysseus’ hands. He is required to fight in order to win and earn victory (Homer 95). Even the gods believe strongly that his victory is in his own hands. This is notable when Athena decides to intervene but still leaves the final outcomes upon Odysseus. During the battle with Penelope’s suitors, Athena could have intervened in order to guarantee Odysseus’ victory. However, Athena does nothing and instead allows Odysseus to use his might and earn the most desired victory.
The story shows clearly that Odysseus possess powerful leadership skills. This is a key strength that makes it possible for him to lead his people and eventually realize his personal obligations. This kind of strength is notable from the masterpiece because of the loyalty portrayed by his followers. For example, Eumaios remains a faithful swineherd simply because of his leadership traits. Philoitios is also portrayed as a loyal cowherd throughout the journey. The kind of loyalty portrayed by the characters is a clear indication that Odysseus possessed the unique attributes of a competent leader. This character goes further to support the fact that Odysseus is the archetype of the Greek mythology conqueror (Homer 139).
Odysseus is portrayed as a strong person who has adequate faith in the welfare of mankind. This can be supported by the fact that he does not tolerate immortality (Homer 158). He goes further to portray the best human emotions and passions. Such passions play a positive role in charming the gods and goddesses such as Calypso. The possession of this value supports the fact that Odysseus is a true leader and hero.
The poem goes further to show conclusively that Odysseus is a skilled leader. For instance, he manages to negotiate successfully “especially on behalf of Agamemnon” (Homer 118). Through the use of his elocution and aptitude, the character goes further to astonish the Trojans. By so doing, Odysseus succeeds in inspiring a new wave of hope and confidence in his men. This achievement makes the team united for twenty years. The use of his skills makes it easier for his followers to act intelligently, support him, and eventually realize their targeted goals.
That being the case, it is agreeable all the exemplary qualities possessed by Odysseus play a significant role in supporting him throughout the journey. Such qualities make it easier for him to overcome most of the obstacles and challenges encountered throughout the journey. He also uses his skills to motivate and encourage his followers to focus on the journey ahead of them (Homer 173). After poking Cyclops’ eyes, the hero decides not to kill him. This is the case because the attempt to kill Cyclops would have made it hard for him to get out of the cave.
His loyalty and love for Penelope is another powerful attribute that supports him for those twenty years. This is true because he remains faithful and vows to return to his wife despite the challenges facing him. This notion encourages him to undertake new paths that can eventually take him to Ithaca (Homer 121). Throughout the journey, the idea that he must reunite with his family remains relevant.
The combinations of the above traits make it easier for Odysseus to emerge as a courageous character. His courage makes it easier for him to battle the seas and eventually achieve his objectives. The masterpiece also shows clearly how Odysseus uses his courage to outsmart the other characters such as Cyclops. While at the same time portraying his courageous side, Odysseus goes further to prove to his people that he is a nobleman.
This attribute of nobility supports him throughout the journey. Because of these unique attributes, Odysseus fulfills the description of a true epic hero (Homer 210). Many people find it easier to idealize him for his noble attributes, outstanding endeavors, and courage. He works tirelessly, overcomes traps, outsmarts many people, and deceives whenever necessary in order to return to his beloved wife.
The possession of the above qualities helps Odysseus throughout the epic. Such qualities made it easier for him to kill the Cyclops at the time when the giants were asleep (Homer 110). The author of the poem shows clearly that Odysseus had the nerve to stand up for each and every belief. The poem shows conclusively that the hero does not follow the opinions of those around him. Consequently, he goes further to do what is ethical to him. He uses his skills in an attempt to ensure every job is finished. For instance, Odysseus plugs the ears of sailors with wax (Homer 141). Such “sweet melodies lure the sailors to their doom” (Homer 141).
The reader realizes that Odysseus understands the importance of wisdom. This means that the use of wisdom is the only sure way towards achieving success. Odysseus uses his wisdom and courage along the journey. The reader can, therefore, focus on these qualities in order to understand why Odysseus is the epic hero (Homer 142).
Odysseus’ patience is tested after arriving in Ithaca. At this moment, Odysseus is ready to kill all the suitors because he is very uncomfortable with them. He even says that his past has been unbelievable and unbearable (Homer 209). Because of his patience, Odysseus decides not to reveal his identity. This kind of approach makes it easier for him to test his wife’s authenticity. The strategy also makes it easier for Odysseus to deal with Penelope’s suitors. The decision to deceive Penelope can be treated as a strength because he eventually tests her faith.
Towards the end of the story, the reader observes that that the hero is willing to temper his pride with great patience. The reader sees clearly that Odysseus disguises himself as a beggar. This act explains why Odysseus fails to react to every form of abuse. He seems to accept such abuses from the suitors. He appears to believe strongly that his trap would work effectively on his favor. His endurance of the abuses is a clear indication that patience is a powerful attribute associated with epic heroes (Homer 141). He eventually relies on his trap to strike back and emerge victorious.
Odysseus’ Less Admirable Characteristics and How They Cause Him Harm
The above analysis shows that Odysseus was a great strategist, brave, and courageous. In spite of his heroic powers and abilities, the character remains ineffective and imperfect (Homer 39). This is proved by the weaknesses or flaws that dictate the future of his journey. The consequences of such weaknesses include the wrath of specific gods such as Poseidon. This god holds grudge against the hero thus prolonging his path to Ithaca.
To begin with, Odysseus embraces the use of arrogance thus attracting more trouble. This is notable when he enters Cyclops’ cave. He does this without thinking of the major consequences that might befall him. Inside the cave, Odysseus learns with great shock that he is unable to escape. He decided to yell to Cyclops. He used his pride to identify himself to Cyclops.
This act of pride makes Cyclops angry thus forcing him to pray for Odysseus’ destruction. The situation worsens when all his companions perish before he could go back home. The agreeable thing from this event is that Odysseus’ companions would have survived throughout the journey if he had not entered the cave (Homer 95). The narration also indicates that Odysseus assumed that Cyclops would treat him nicely or as a guest. However, this kind of assumption works against him thus finding it hard to continue with the journey.
Because of his pride, Odysseus decides to defy the gods. He does so by declaring openly that he was responsible for his own victory. He asserted that the gods had not assisted him. However, this happens to be untrue because Poseidon had sent a huge serpent to destroy one of Odysseus’ enemies. This act alone helped Odysseus to emerge victorious. This weakness of pride reoccurs throughout the story. The hero’s pride is noticeable when he reveals his name at the time they are leaving Cyclops Island. The misbehavior increases the anger of the gods (Homer 128).
While on the Cyclopes’ Island, Odysseus brags about his strengths and exploits. This form of pride compels Polythemus to hurl gigantic boulders. The sinking of their ship is because of this act (Homer 114). The occurrence of this incident weakens Odysseus and makes it harder for him to reach home much faster. It is agreeable that Odysseus’ pride makes it harder for him to reach Ithaca (Homer 114). The story also indicates that Poseidon makes Odysseus’ journey unbearable and long.
The above events also show conclusively that Odysseus did not have respect for others. This lack of respect led to the loss of his companions. He is also portrayed as a selfish character. His selfishness explains why he brags about his superiority. The malpractice eventually makes it impossible to realize most of his goals. His lack of respect for other individuals paints a negative attribute of the character thus disorienting his future fortunes (Homer 119).
The poem presents another unique weakness of this character. For instance, the story describes how Odysseus chose to decide with Circle for almost a year. For this whole year, Odysseus did not remember anything to do with home. The situation forced his companions to “remind him about his goals of going to Ithaca” (Homer 116). This occurrence indicates that Odysseus was unable to overcome any form of temptation. This weakness explains why the character was unable to realize his mission. These weaknesses appear to downsize Odysseus. Since he is unable to deal with temptation, he becomes less powerful and wastes a lot of time. His people find it extremely hard to cope with his decisions.
The other unique flaw exhibited by Odysseus is his lack of alertness. The hero makes a huge mistake when he decides to take a walk alone in order to pray. This weakness results in the death of his emaciated followers (Homer 128). When he returns, Odysseus learns with great shock that his crew has encountered hunger and misery. This kind of weakness jeopardizes the mission of the crew.
The episode when Odysseus sticks was in the ears of each and every crew member is a clear indication that Odysseus was a selfish character. By so doing, Odysseus jeopardizes the members of his crew while at the same time seeking to satisfy his personal needs or motives (Homer 162). This can be treated as a pernicious thing that should be avoided by leaders and heroes by all costs.
The story goes further to show how Odysseus weaknesses influence the behaviors of his followers. The crew takes a very long time before going back to Ithaca (Homer 201). The crew engages in various malpractices that portray their flaws. These flaws eventually cost them their lives. Some of the flaws associated with the crew include alcohol consumption and gluttony. Under the command of Odysseus, the crew engages in drinking orgies while in Cicones. The behavior explains why the crew members decide to disobey and go against the wishes of their leader. The people of Cicones find it easier to defeat Odysseus’ men.
The other outstanding weakness observed in the book is Odysseus disobedience. The reader observes that the weakness reoccurs throughout the journey. This disobedience is seen when Odysseus opened a sack of wind. He did this knowing very clearly that he had been ordered by the god of winds not to open it. The released winds blew the ship thus taking Odysseus more time to reach Ithaca. If Odysseus had not disobeyed Aeolus’ orders, the crew would have arrived much earlier (Homer 169).
The possession of the above weaknesses makes it harder to Odysseus and his crew to realize their goals. Some members of the crew eventually die because of such weaknesses and flaws. However, it should be observed that Odysseus still remains the central hero in the masterpiece (Homer 114). His appears to possess superior qualities that make him the favorite character in the story. Despite such traits, Odysseus reveals less admirable aspects that reshape the future of his journey. These qualities cause him greater harm by claiming the lives of his crewmembers. It can be argued that the weaknesses possessed by Odysseus reveal a unique aspect of human nature.
Odysseus long journey can be used to describe the challenges and paths undertaken by many individuals who want to realize their potentials. In conclusion, these above virtues (both the undesirable and desirable) play a positive role towards making the hero successful. He confronts all the challenges facing him throughout the journey (Homer 191). His strength and ability to focus on the targeted goal is something that makes it easier for Odysseus to reach home and reunite with Penelope. The combinations of these qualities play a critical role towards making Odysseus the most preferable epic hero of Homer’s time.
Work Cited
Homer. Homer, The Odyssey of Homer. Translated by Richard Lattimore, Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2007. Print.
In the Homeric world the theme of hospitality has been used in a rather obsessive manner with the author raising it very more often, in this writing the social world is complicated and confused.Within the society comprising Homer’s world are the hospitable and noble people on one side and the exploiters on the other side.
The exploiters are ungrateful of the favors extended to them and they grab every chance that comes their way to wreck havoc amongst their host, they hold their host ransom at their own backyard. It’s prudent to say that majority of the Homeric world as portrayed in the first book is a socially spoilt world.
None the less the Homeric world gives a glimpse of the noble men and women who live within that society, they appreciate and acknowledge the little favors and hospitality extended to them and in some instances they returned this favors to their fellow honorable men of the society.
When Minerva visited Ithaca ,after descending from Olympus to Ulysses house disguised as a visitor she found Penelope’s suitors seated on hides of skins from oxen which they had slaughtered and eaten ,the suitors were so comfortable and felt at home within Penelope’s and Telemachus’ (Ulysses son)house.
As Homer put it, they were cutting great chunks of meat and mixing wine while the servants were waiting upon them (8:13)1, that was the scope of Penelope’s hospitality. However, the suitors were themselves inhospitable; they could not extend the kindness shown to them to other people as they don’t take notice of the visitor at the gate (Minerva).
Telemachus is a great host and he is kind to his visitor, he is surprised that a stranger could be kept for long without being welcomed. Telemachus is socially upright, he first welcomes his guest to partake of food before he engages her in any conversation (9:9)1, he receives her spear and sets it up on the bearing post and set up a “richly decorated seat for her” and her feet away from the annoying suitors(10:1)1.
Further, the extent of Telemachus hospitality has been portrayed when the suitors were served with “good things” by men servant and maids (12:4)1. Unfortunately, they exploited this hospitality, for instance when they had finished eating they forced Phemius to sing and as Minerva soon observed “singing come cheap to those who do not pay for it” (13:2)1.
Minerva is disgusted by the unreasonable behavior of the suitors and criticizes them as being atrocious. On the other hand Minerva is offered a gift but he modestly declined but promises to accept it the next time they meet and in return he will give him another of no less value. The behavior of these two characters in this epic indicates the hospitability that existed in this society especially in relation to the host (Telemachus) and the responsiveness of the guest.
In the third book when Minerva and Telemachus go to Pylos to look for odyssey they were received well by their hosts, Homer writes that Nestor’s son offered them a hand (Minerva and Telemachus) and sat them on soft sheep skin. The Pylos society is a religious society as is indicated in their insistence that the guest pray for the drinks that they were about to partake.
Their excellent religious believes are also reflected in their good social behavior especially for their being great hosts, they offered dinner to the guests without even inquiring who they were. This shows as how they use hospitality as away of worshiping their gods.
When night came the guest were given drinks and they as much as they could. As they were heading to their ship Nestor made them to stay exclaiming that heaven and the immortal gods forbad their leaving of his house and going to sleep on board a ship. Nestor is an excellent host and he rebukes the guests attempt to live, informing them that he had the means and ability to not only get beddings for his guests and himself but also clothes for them as well.
When they had agreed to come back, they were mixed the best wine (eleven year old wine) they were put to bed comfortably by their host and when morning come their host extended his hospitality to the remaining crew, he sent for the remaining crew of the ship to come so that they can merry for he ordered that a heifer be slaughtered. Hospitality in this instance is a way of offering respect to their gods.
In book three we are told how hospitality plays a big role in fostering the relationships that exists between the gods and the people. The Homeric society has a lot of respect for their gods as it was illustrated by Nestor upon realizing that Minerva was a goddess, she pampered her guest with food and excellent boarding which culminated in him sending Telemachus on a tour of the country with his son, giving him with a chariot and provisions of wine, bread and other things for their journey (4:2, 3)4
Hospitality plays a big role in fostering peace and tranquility in the Homeric world, when Pisistratus and Telemachus got to Menelaus house and Eteoneus informs him of the strange visitors and how he should deal with them, Menelaus rebukes him for failing to invite the visitors and showing kindness to them, he acknowledges that he himself has been shown kindness before in the places that he visited and he states that that’s gods way of bringing a peaceful coexistence in the society henceforth.
The suitors disregard the hospitality given to them and this time they take it higher by being completely ungrateful and having a plot to completely bring down Telemachus, the servant Medon tells her mistress ,Penelope, that the suitor s were plotting something more dreadful against Telemachus on his way home from finding out what befell his father (69; 1)4.
The suitors portray these society badly but they defend their action by blaming Penelope for keeping them waiting instead of choosing one of them or going back to her father where she will be bestrode to another mate, they accuse her of spinning a loom in the day and when the night came she undid it and thus keeping them waiting for the day she will finish spinning the loom for she had promised that on finishing she will choose a suitor amongst the men. To them they use inhospitality is a revenge tactic.
Conclusion
Much of the Homeric society is a fine society especially in regard to hospitality; most of them treat their visitors in the most excellent way. They do not ask any questions to the visitors until they have been welcomed, washed and given food and drinks to their full.
However, the suitor bring a rather heavy contradiction on this noble vise that the society in Homer’s world has portrayed, they exploit, reciprocate in a rather mischievous way and want to do something dreadful to their host.
In the first book we are told of how they tell Telemachus to his face that they won’t get out of his fathers house. Hospitality plays many roles in this society and is the pillar stone of that society as it has been demonstrated in the ways to which they grab every opportunity to extend hospitality to their visitors.
Work Cited
Homer, The Odyssey, Butler, S. ed,United States: Orange Street Press Classics,1998.pdf.
The 11th book of the Odyssey tells about the trip of Odysseus to the Underworld. Odysseus describes his way into the Hades and souls he has met there. He begins with a description of the women he meets. This trip is crucial for Odysseus because he reevaluates his traits, talking to his friends and relatives about their fate and his life. There are three main scenes in this book. In the first scene, Odysseus meets Elpenor, his own mother, Anticlea, and Tiresias, the prophet. In the second scene, he sees a great array of famous women. In the third scene, he meets and speaks at length with three heroes, Agamemnon, Achilles, and Heracles. These three speeches play a decisive role in the further development of the plot because the heroes make Odysseus look at his life and at his family relations from a different angle. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of these three speeches on Odysseus.
In his conversation with Odysseus, Agamemnon tells about his murder by Aegisthus. He invited Agamemnon and his people to a feast and killed them all. The treacherous wife of Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, chose Aegisthus as her lover and assisted him in the murder. She left the corpse of Agamemnon with opened eyes and jaws. The soul of Agamemnon tells Odysseus not to trust women and especially his wife, and to come home hiding his identity. Odysseus understands that he should be suspicious of their own family and friends because the death can come not from the enemies alone but from anybody surrounding him.
After the conversation with Agamemnon, Odysseus meets Achilles, who is a king of Hades. Odysseus praises him as the greatest of the Achaeans and tells him not to feel sorrow about his death because everything is in his power. Nevertheless, Achilles protests that he would be much happier to be a slave on earth than to be the ruler of the dead (Homer 187). He does not value glory anymore because it does not make any sense in Hades. Therefore, he destroys the image of the brave hero who strives to die as a great warrior in battle.
The third hero to speak with Odysseus is Heracles, who acknowledges him at first glance. He expresses pity that Odysseus is also in the land of the dead and tells about his journey in Hades to retrieve the great hound. This scene is short but very important because Heracles being a great hero, acknowledges Odysseus at first glance as a renowned hero. He also touches upon the The relations between the heroes and their relatives are remarkable. Both Agamemnon and Achilles feel sorrow about being dead but they are eager to hear about their children. Achilles brightens up hearing about the glory of his son. After returning home, Odysseus tries to act as a stranger to his father, but as his plan fails they embrace in joy.
The 11th book is crucial for the development of the plot and the character of Odysseus. He reevaluates his traits and deeds talking to deceased heroes. They teach him that he cannot trust anyone, and that glory is given only for a time. As the result of his conversation with Agamemnon, Odysseus returns home in secret, but as his plan fails he cannot conceal his joy to see his father.
Odysseus is a brave and cheerful hero in the oldest written monument of Greek literature — Homer’s poem The Odyssey. The ancient Greeks heard stories about a wise traveler’s adventures performed by rhapsodic singers, and they are no less popular today. From the point of view of the author of the poem, the heroism of Odysseus lies in the fact that he remains faithful to his homeland, the island of Ithaca, nothing scares him in achieving his goal of seeing “the smoke leaping up from his land” (Homer, 1919, para. 44). This paper will analyze Odysseus’s characteristics and the manhood that helped him reach home despite various temptations and enemies on his path to Ithaca.
The hero of the poem Odyssey is a courageous warrior, but often he uses tricks to win. They help him to overcome Polyphemus, Circe, and Sirens. Once on an unknown island and finding a huge cave where the Cyclops lived, Odysseus shows himself as a curious and attentive researcher. However, due to his fault, everyone gets into trouble and is captured by the fierce and ruthless Cyclops, the cave owner. In this situation, courage and self-control do not leave Odysseus. He is the first man who tries to find a common language with the ogre. Then, seeing the futility of these attempts and the real threat to the lives of his comrades and his own, the hero finds a way to make Cyclops helpless, depriving the only eye the ogre has.
For the sake of his friends, Odysseus fearlessly risks his life and manifests himself as a reliable and loyal companion, whom a person can rely on. With his help, the travelers get out to freedom and return to the ship with rich prey, namely “large herds of sheep and goats” (Homer, 1919, para. 111). Odysseus’ ingenuity, resourcefulness, and optimism evoke a sense of gratitude and respect among his companions.
If tricking is the natural trait of Odysseus, then the courage and endurance he acquired during the long journey hardened his body and soul. All those who aimed to seduce or fight Odysseus during the long years of the Trojan War and the trip back home were conquered by his intelligence, manhood, and bravery. The enchantress Cirke, whose potion did not make Odysseus feel bad, was amazed by his resilience (Homer, 1997). The goddess Athena confirms that even Gods cannot compete with Odysseus in dexterity and insidious inventions.
Odysseus in the poem is often awarded the epithet” “the man of twists and turns.” (North, 2017). The hero himself confesses to king Alcinous that he is famous for his cunning inventions: “I am Odysseus, son of Laertes, known to the world/for every kind of craft-my fame has reached the skies” (Homer, 1997, para. 21-22). Nevertheless, in archery, no one could surpass him, he was known as glorious with a spear, but most importantly, he was great in the soul. Nor any mortal compare with him in oratory, in the wisdom of words, in the goodness of advice.
On the path of an intelligent and inquisitive hero, he often overcomes thanks to his ardent love for his family and his native heart that gives him manhood. Breaking the order established by the gods, Odysseus repeatedly causes the wrath of Poseidon, Aeolus, Zeus, and Helios (Homer, 1919). This brings him considerable suffering, but in all the misadventures, the hero uses his courage and cunning. Besides, the great gods do not leave the hero, admiring his manhood, endurance, and purposefulness.
In The Odyssey, we see a new type of heroic courage: a person is mortal, but death does not overtake him in battle – before looking into the eyes of death, Odysseus has to make a journey of a lifetime, and on this path, there are many trials. The character demonstrates his manhood in the resistance to numerous temptations and the persistent concentration of his humanity on the way back home. Odysseus’ fortitude and manhood are shown during the path when he faced forms of a tempting possibility of finding sweet oblivion, which in fact would inevitably turn into the loss of his humanity. To illustrate this, two stories are mentioned in The Odyssey. The first is the story of Odysseus’ stay with the nymph Calypso, and, the second, is the story of meeting with Lotophages who eat only lotus flowers, which may not allow them to return home because of their divine taste (Homer, 1919). Odysseus continuously resists challenges coming on the way back home; this is how Homer emphasizes that manhood and courage can be expressed in different situations and not only on the battlefield.
To summarize the topic and the story of Odysseus, one might state that Odysseus’s manhood is not expressed in the form of fortitude in the face of death, embodied in the enemy on the battlefield. There will be nothing heroic in Odysseus’s death; on the contrary, Tiresias predicts that he will die peacefully in old age. Instead, his courage and manhood are shown in the form of resistance to temptations and the ability to overcome challenges that arise during being and living as a human. In the case of Odysseus, being a person and, importantly, living with the polis virtues: prudence, courage, and justice come to the forefront of the expression of manhood that everyone should possess.
Homer captured a variety of themes through his heroic message. The book’s central motif is the adventurous journey, the complete transformation of the king of Ithaca from the Trojan battle. The Odyssey completely immerses the reader in the atmosphere of the book. At the same time, many of the themes have not lost relevance with time and remain essential to the individual. Thus, it is crucial to determine which motifs from the poem are valid in today’s world.
The Analysis of the Argument and Counterargument
In the poem The Odyssey, one can trace the property and social inequality, the division into “better” and “worse.” Therefore, Homer indicates that there is slavery, which retains a patriarchal character. Accordingly, enslaved people are primarily shepherds and domestic servants, among whom are the privileged, such as Euryclea, Odysseus’ nurse. The author also includes among the privileged the shepherd Eumaeus, who acts entirely independently, more as Odysseus’ friend than as his slave (Homer, 2015). Hence, the history of humanity has not known a society without social inequality. Inequalities of income, power, prestige of occupation, and education have arisen in human society and are evident today. In the United States, the principles of class stratification are most fully realized. Scientists distinguish four main classes: the upper, middle, working, and lower. Therefore, the topic of social inequality, which Homer discussed, is relevant nowadays because there is a separation into social classes and strata.
At the same time, the book’s point is that one should not indulge in pride. For instance, Ithaca abandoned the view of the son of the sea’s ruler and was quite self-confident, believing that fate’s favor was based on merit and imagined superiority. His presumption exceeded all bounds, because of which God inflicted damnation and forced him to swim in the sea until he admitted his responsibility (Homer, 2015). Furthermore, the religious motive is essential: like all the individuals of his time, the poet thought that nothing in this world is subject to an object; all is determined. In the modern world, humans do not rely on religion in this way, which is why the theme of Gods and damnation is not relevant. At the same time, the system of justice and punishment according to the law is developed. Hence, the development of the theme of religious motives in The Odyssey is a counterargument to the fact that the poem is relevant to the present day.
While the theme of destiny is evident in every episode of the book, Homer demonstrates the individual’s rebellion against destiny, against the gods, leaning toward the idea that it is futile and criminal (Homer, 2015). Fate anticipates even these movements of the soul, all of which are already calculated and derived by the Maoists in the form of a thread of life. One can find parallels in the modern world, such as activists organizing actions of support for the rights of the LGBT community. Consequently, this motif of the poem is relevant in today’s world because individuals still continue to defend their identity and desire, independent of whether or not society and government support them.
Conclusion
Thus, The Odyssey describes the ten-year journey of the protagonist, his countless exploits, and brave concessions. Indeed, the religious motif present in the poem does not have a clear manifestation and relevance in the modern world. In contrast, many moments, such as social inequality, identifying one’s own opinion, and individuality, are characteristic of a person in a modern community. Therefore, it can be argued that the themes highlighted in the poem are still relevant today.
The poems ‘Divine Comedy’ and ‘The Odyssey’ have characteristics of an epic piece of literature. Epic poems have distinct features that separate them from other poems. To start with, they are lengthy and usually in a narrative style. Their themes are grand and the main characters are heroic figures. The protagonists face many challenges in the course of the poems, culminating into victory or failure. Some epics have supernatural figures or powers, while others have physical combats exemplary displayed by one or two characters.
Moreover, epics tackle the daily routine of life not just entertaining or glorifying some characters. Instead, they capture events that transpired in a given period. This paper will demonstrate that ‘Divine Comedy’ and ‘The Odyssey’ are classic epics depicting the events happening in their respective periods. It will also compare and contrast the two poems under consideration.
In ‘The Odyssey’, by Homer, Odysseus is the heroic figure, who has fought in the Trojan War and achieved victory. He struggles to get back to his homeland, Ithaca, but his journey is full of tribulations. Odysseus is constantly under the danger of attack and dodging death, giving him ample time to think about his life, in particular, the spiritual life. However, he has to go home to Ithaca and save his people. The fact that Odysseus is a hero in a mission to save his nation distinguishes the poem as an epic.
‘Divine Comedy’ by Dante Alighieri reflects on life after death. The poet pens down his imagination of how hell would look like. It is a poem about the supernatural more than about a hero, which is the first difference between the current poem and ‘The Odyssey’. ‘Divine Comedy’ has 14, 233 lines, the number that is almost equal to ‘The Odyssey’ (Dante 43).
Dante makes himself the main character in the work that can be viewed as an aspect that distinguishes it from other epics. In spite of these differences in main characters, the two poems fit perfectly within the definition of an epic.
The beginning and setting of the two poems epitomize the writings as well. ‘The Odyssey’ starts by invoking a muse. Then, Homer follows this by extrapolating on the themes in the poem, which is a characteristic of an epic.
The setting covers a vast distance as Odysseus travels back to Ithaca across the Mediterranean Sea after the Trojan War. Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’ also begins in medias res. There are three different settings in the poem: the inferno, purgatorio, and paradise. The many settings afford epic poets an opportunity to develop their themes without space constraints.
It should be outlined that a major characteristic of epics is the use of heroic figures. Odysseus is the hero in Homer’s ‘The Odyssey’, who is venerated and fondly sobriquet the “Odyssey, master mariner and solder” (Homer 436). Odysseus undergoes numerous trials and tribulations but he emerges stronger each time. In the poem, the main hero and his men run into Cyclops. Facing imminent defeat, the brave leader intelligently fools Cyclops and blindfolds him.
Thus, Odysseus secures his men’s safety. In another episode, the king of Ithaca encounters Circle, the Greek goddess with powers to turn men into animals. Again, he secures the safety of his men by defeating the mighty woman. In the third encounter, visiting the underworld and meets his mother and other fallen heroes. Notably, the interaction between dead and living men is a distinct feature of epics.
‘Divine Comedy’ is different because it does not have a human hero who excels in war. Instead, the author enters into the afterlife and presents it to his audience. Thirty-five-year-old Dante makes entrance into a dark forest where he sees a light from a distance and attempts to reach it. However, a ferocious and angry lion stands on his way.
A spirit comes to rescue him but not without a price. The main character will have to go through hell, purgatory, and then get his way to heaven. Dante is ready to take the journey because of his desire to escape from a sinful world. In this poem, the author makes extensive use of supernatural beings, animals, and dead people, which can qualify the writing piece as an epic poem.
Homer’s ‘The Odyssey’ extensively applies supernatural forces, an aspect of an epic. Gods and goddess appear in the poem in many instances. Some of the supernatural forces help the hero while others are viewed as a hindrance to the hero’s progress. Poseidon hinders Odysseus’ progress by putting him through Calypso, a very dangerous island. Goddess Circle opposes Oedipus’ trespass and threatens to kill his men.
However, other gods and goddess facilitate Oedipus’ journey back to Ithaca. Athena, for instance, helps Oedipus escape from goddess Circle in Calypso. Hermes too facilitates Oedipus’ sojourn by offering protection against Calypso. As mentioned earlier, the use of superpowers is one characteristic of epics. Calypso, Hermes, Poseidon, and Circle elevate Homer’s poem epic stature.
Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’ uses supernatural powers and unreal settings extensively. As mentioned before, Dante makes his poem unique by presenting himself as the main character. In his epic, he narrates his afterlife in hell and finally the journey to heaven. He also describes Virgil as the other main character in his poem, who was a Roman poet widely acclaimed for his Christian ways and moral rectitude. Capturing war escapades of the man who founded Rome, Virgil redeems Dante by offering him the way to heaven.
The other deceased character in Dante’s poem is Beatrice, the author’s first love, who guides him in heaven. There are other mythological personages and creatures in the poem, including Arachne and Harpies, supernatural figures like demons, angels, and the devil. Just like in Homer’s ‘The Odyssey’, the use of mythological and supernatural figures enhances the poem’s epic nature.
One should bear in mind that the epic poems do not merely entertain or detail lives of heroes for their own sake. Instead, they pass across a message that resonates with what was happening at the particular period. Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’ captures the materialism and moral decadence that plagued his society. The poem employs deep allegory to depict the consequences of sin. Thus, it begins on the eve of Good Friday with the setting in the thick of dark woodland.
On the opposite side, allure of the sun beckons but a ferocious lion stands on the way. It could be considered that the dark forest symbolizes sin. The sun, however, represents salvation. The lion embodies all the things that hold human beings back from heaven. By timing his death on a Good Friday, Dante captures how Jesus died to save humanity. He argues that peoples’ greed and self-seeking pursuit set them apart from God.
Homer’s ‘ The Odyssey’ captures Odysseus’ trials and challenges as he attempts to get back to his people. The theme of homecoming runs through the poem. Temptation as a theme is also recurrent. Thus, Odysseus resists numerous temptations as he makes his way to Ithaca.
However, some of his solders suffer psychological peril because of falling into temptations. At a symbolic level, the poem shows how weakness makes human beings vulnerable. Identity and exile also run through the poem where Odysseus is in a foreign country to fight for his homeland. After winning the war, he has to go through hostile land to his people back at home that also need him. At a symbolic level, this journey represents human pursuit of identity.
In conclusion, the paper has extrapolated some characteristics of epics that are genres of long poetry, often classical. They are narratives with the elevated themes usually focusing on success and failures of heroes. Additionally, they may have supernatural characters that interact with mortals.
The poems ‘Divine Comedy’ by Dante and Homer’s ‘The Odyssey’ are epics. They start in medias res and invoke a muse in the beginning. Homer’s poem concentrates on extraordinary acts of king of Ithaca who is returning home after a successful war in a foreign land.
Throughout his journey, he encounters stiff resistance from some gods and goddess but manages to arrive home at the end. Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’ focuses on afterlife where the author imagines the life after death and commits himself to investigate it for the audience. His poem is a protestation against materialism and decadence that rocked his society. The two poems fit perfectly within the characteristics of an epic.
Works Cited
Dante, Alighieri. The Divine Comedy. London: Laurence King, 2010. Print.
Homer. The Odyssey. London: Penguin Classics, 2009. Print.