Examples Of Courage In The Odyssey

In literature, heroes walk in between the lines of admirable virtues and disturbing flaws. Odysseus, the main character in Homer’s The Odyssey, is a perfect and complex example. Odysseus is known for being clever and determined. These qualities help him through the dangerous challenges throughout his journey home. But sometimes, his choices raise questions about whether he’s a hero or just looking out for himself. Odysseus stands as a constant leader who prioritizes the safety of his men from the numerous perils they face. Odysseus throughout the story of, The Odyssey, exemplifies heroic qualities such as courage, cunning, and leadership to prioritize the well-being of his men. One notable example that displays Odysseus’ courage occurs when he encounters the enchantress Circe on the island of Aeaea.

Against this advice, however, Odysseus rushes to save his men from the enchantress” (Homer, Book 10 Lines 46-48). This quote from The Odyssey illustrates Odysseus’s courageous nature in numerous ways. Despite Eurylochus’s advice to sail away from Circe’s island to avoid danger, Odysseus opts to confront the enchantress head-on to release his men. This decision shows Odysseus’ courage in the face of danger, as Circe's magical powers can pose a threat to him and his men. Furthermore, Odysseus’ immediate response to Eurylochus’s report reveals his protective instinct towards his men rather than abandoning them to their perilous fate and prioritizing his safety. This act shows Odysseus’ as a heroic leader to protect the welfare of his crew. Another example of Odysseus’ heroic qualities is his cunning and strategic brilliance. This is shown by his encounter with the Cyclops