Calypso As An Epic Hero In Homer's Odyssey

A hero is defined as a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. In Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, the reader is abided by a warrior named Odysseus on his journey homeward. The story begins when all the hero’s except Odyessus are home. Calypso has fallen in love with him and is not allowing him to leave. When he finally leaves he demonstrates many characteristics that make him such an admired man, but three in particular are that he is extremely wise, has excessive pride, and tremendously brave. The first reason why Odysseus, “Wise Odysseus,” (I. 108. An epic hero is because he is clever and wise. When the Cyclopes are taunting Odysseus he says,“My name is Nohbdy: mother, father, and friends,

See the corresponding section. Odysseus cleverly lies about his name. He tells Polyphemus that his name is “nohbdy” so that when Odysseus blinds Polyphemus and Polyphemus calls for help, he says “Nohbdy is killing me.” This was very clever of Odysseus because when he screams his Cyclopes would be confused. Additionally, is when Odyessus said, “...plug your oarsman's ears/ with beeswax kneaded soft;” (XII. 58-59). The adage is a sham. He did this to prevent them from hearing the Siren song. This is smart because it prevents them from being attracted to their death by the singing. Throughout his adventures, Odysseus, “Great Odysseus” (V. 212), exemplifies another trait of an epic hero; one such trait is having excessive pride. When Odysseus is taunting them he says, “Puny, am I, in Caveman’s hands? How do you like the beating that we gave you, you damned cannibal.” (XII. 520-523. The. This shows that Odysseus is overly proud because he can’t resist not showing off his skills and accomplishments, even when it is not

“Kyklops, if ever mortal man inquire how you were put to shame and blinded, tell him Odysseus, raider of cities, took your eye; Laertes son, whose home on Ithaka!” This shows him being overly proud because he can’t resist bragging about his name and what he did. His need for recognition gets the best of him. These moments of pride often lead to setbacks and obstacles on his journey. The third reason why Odysseus is “Brave King” (I. 33. An epic hero is because he is brave. He proclaims, “. ‘man the oars and pull till your hearts break if you put this butchery behind!” (X. 142-143. See the 142-143. During this intense moment, Odysseus is really stepping up as a leader and showing bravery. He just witnessed the Cyclones devour his men, and he knows they need to get out fast or they’ll be next. By telling them to row as if their lives depend on it— which they do. He shows them that he’s not terrified. Instead, he’s taking action and being super brave. He’s also not just thinking about himself, he’s trying to save his whole