Loyalty In The Odyssey

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The Odyssey is a classic epic that tells the story of an ancient Greek hero named Odysseus and his journey back to his homeland of Ithaca. After fighting in the Trojan War he returns home. This epic poem has been passed down through generations in ways of storytelling, acting, and written text. It has become an essential part of Western literature. The Odyssey is a profound narrative that explores a diverse set of themes, including the consequences of human actions, the importance of loyalty, and the value of hospitality. These themes have played a constant role in everyone's life throughout history and are especially important in today's society. These themes come to us through imagery and mood, fostering us to look deeper into the individual characters and reflect on their arc throughout the poem and reflect how this …show more content…

Throughout the story, loyalty is a significant factor that drives the actions of many of the characters, including Odysseus. The loyalty Odysseus exhibits to his men as well as his wife is almost unparalleled. Odysseus is loyal to his men, and he risks his life to save them from danger. Throughout his time in the Trojan War and then his 10-year journey back to his wife, most people would have given up on a journey spanning 20 years. However, Odysseus persevered through his loyalty to a higher power than “gods and country” his wife. His wife Penelope and his son, Telemachus, remain loyal to him despite his extended absence, and they wait patiently for his return. His wife turns away suitors that offer her much more than a man who has been gone for 20 years. Loyalty was the reason this family was able to stay together and the reason for Odysseus’ final return. These examples highlight the importance of loyalty, both in terms of relationships and personal values. The consequences of actions play a role here as well, the consequence here is that the family and the lovers Odysseus and Penelope can