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Moral Action In Odysseus In Homer's The Odyssey

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What defines an action to be moral or political? A moral action is an action that is aimed towards doing good, and does not violate anybody’s rights. Moral actions can also be referred to as ethos. A political action is an action aimed towards gaining or retaining power, which can also be referred to as kratos. In the epic poem The Odyssey by Homer, the main protagonist, Odysseus, makes many decisions that reflect upon his character. Odysseus is portrayed as a formidable, hubristic, steadfast individual. “Could I forget that kingly man, Odysseus?” (3) Individuals around him also agree that he is quite admirable. Odysseus exhibits many traits that depict a sense of entitlement, and that he is quite arrogant. “…if ever mortal man inquire how …show more content…

His decisions are beneficial to him, and him only. Odysseus does what he wants, and how it will affect others does not cross his mind. The Kyklops predicament could have been avoided if it were not for Odysseus’ desire to obtain total superiority. And it was unnecessary for Odysseus to glorify his bow and arrow triumph, but given the chance, he took the opportunity to do so. Egotistical behavior tends to be looked down upon, and is considered to be corrupt and reprehensible. It is also considered wrong to put your own opinions and ideas before others’, especially if it will affect others negatively. Odysseus evidently has demonstrated that his actions are for his own best interest of appearing to be …show more content…

In reference to Odysseus’ charisma towards Nausikaa, he is only using his charm to persuade her to give him food, clothing, and shelter. “But now that you have taken refuge here you shall not lack for clothing, or any other comfort due to a poor man in distress.” (182) He is making her believe that she is the most alluring person that he has ever laid eyes on. By doing this, she develops a liking for Odysseus, and feels sorry for him. When Odysseus used his persuasive way with words on Polyphemus, he only wanted to get the Kyklops drunk so that he could stab him in the eye. “…straight forward they sprinted, lifted it, and rammed it deep in his crater eye, and I leaned on it turning it as a shipwright turns a drill in planking…” (234) After injuring the Kyklops, he then taunted him repeatedly until he prayed to his father Poseidon, resulting in the death of many of his crewmates. Odysseus’ behavior is most definitely

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