Odysseus: A Hero
The classic and epic story of Odysseus and his travels, titled The Odyssey, has touched humankind since it was first told in the eighth century. Over this time, people have debated endlessly about whether or not the main character could be classified as a typical hero. Odysseus did some things that could make him seem dishonest or unethical, but does that disqualify him from being a hero? Overall, the narrative portrays a character this is not inherently flawless, but he is an inspiration, as well as someone who can persevere through challenges, and is simply trying to do what is best for everyone, therefore embodying a quintessential hero.
The majority of people have an idol, or someone they can look up to. It tends to give
…show more content…
Defying this, a hero is always able to persevere through whatever challenge is thrown at them. Odysseus suffered through many ordeals before he returned to his wife, “… naked and near death on the island of the Phaeacians. Far gone in weariness, in oblivion, the noble and enduring man slept on…” (5). Despite all odds and Poseidon 's wrath, Odysseus somehow made it out alive while still retaining the strength to complete his initial quest. Any mortal man would have been happy staying with Calypso forever, but Odysseus resisted these humanly temptations and set out once again, his life still in danger. His situation causes many perils to arise, “Friends, have we never been in danger before this? More fearsome, is it now, than when the Cyclops penned us in his cave? What power he had! Did I not keep my nerve, and use my wits to find a way out for us?” (15). Odysseus ran into innumerable threats, and every time he survived, often physically harmed, yet he always escaped with his dignity. To conclude, Odysseus was able to jump over whatever obstacle came his way--one of the various characteristics of a true