Goddesses In The Odyssey

There are many gods and goddesses present in the epic simile The Odyssey. However, there are four in particular that influence Odysseus and his men along their protracted, arduous voyage home to Ithaca. Among these four influential characters are, Zeus, Athena, Helios and Poseidon. These Greek gods and goddesses represent different symbols that appear in The Odyssey on more than one occasion; for example, the olive branch or the sun. The symbols are strategically placed in The Odyssey so that readers can recognize the presence of a specific Greek god or goddess. In some ways these four deities are quite different, however they all work together for a common goal which at times either influences or hinders Odysseus. Throughout The Odyssey Athena is constantly influencing, protecting and assisting Odysseus and his men. Therefore, Athena’s presence is crucial for Odysseus’ survival. Athena must convert Odysseus to a beggar to eliminate any inkling of his

Poseidon’s son Polyphemus, or the cyclops as he’s referred to in the text, is seeking vengeance for Odysseus’ despicable actions towards him. Perhaps, Odysseus’ fatal flaw hubris got him and his men into this situation in the first place. The Cyclops was drunk when Odysseus and his men sharpened a tool and stabbed him in the eye, to escape, Odysseus suggested they hide on the underside of Polyphemus’ sheep. Polyphemus sought the help of his father, “At this he stretched his hands out in his darkness toward the sky of stars, and prayed to Poseidon…”(Homer 12) Due to the fact that Poseidon is the God of the sea, he has a more than ample opportunity to retaliate. Prior to disabling Polyphemus, Odysseus refers to Poseidon. “My ship? Poseidon Lord, who sets the earth atremble, broke it up on the rocks at your land’s end.”(Homer 6) Even though Poseidon poses many obstacles for Odysseus, he perseveres and is finally able to see his