The First Anti-Hero
In the story The Odyssey, the author Homer introduces the reader to a hero who shows qualities of courage and intelligence. Odysseus, our main protagonist throughout the story, is known for his cunning intelligence and courage in the face of danger. As the reader follows Odysseus' journey home after the Trojan War, Odysseus is seen to contend with many challenges and obstacles that test his skills as a leader. He shows the reader how to overcome these challenges using his quick thinking and strategic planning. This article explores how Odysseus' intelligence and courage help him in times when they are most needed.
Odysseus' bravery can be shown to the reader as he faces many different challenges and obstacles on the way
…show more content…
This is made clear through many examples in the Odyssey. Odysseus shows the reader many times how he can get through tough and frightening situations and overcome the constant obstacles in his path. A good example of Odysseus’ bravery is when he confronts the enchantress Circe who turned his men into pigs. Odysseus is able to avoid and resist magic by using a special herb given to him by the god Hermes. This ends up helping Odysseus convince the enchantress to turn his men back into humans, helping him get home. This is an example of Odysseus’ useful ability to think on his feet, as well as his persuasiveness, coming in handy. Odysseus emphasizes the importance of his intelligence when he says, "I am Odysseus, son of Laertes, known before all men for the study of crafty designs" (9.19-20). Although this quote may paint Odysseus as an overly prideful and overconfident character, it shows not only his intellect, but also his reputation as a strategic thinker and excellent problem solver. Overall, the intellect of Odysseus is one of the essentials to his heroism, allowing him to overcome the difficulties of his journey back