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Odysseus: A True Leader In Homer's The Odyssey

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“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others,” said Douglas MacArthur. In Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey, Odysseus the epic hero, portrays these same traits in his leadership of his shipmates. He leads them though victories and consoles them through losses. He is sought out for his wisdom and intelligence, and he is well respected for his consistent bravery. Although from an outside perspective Odysseus may seem calm, fearless, and stable, during the many obstacles he faces on his trip home, different sides to is character are revealed. Odysseus must brave monsters, defeat a cyclops, and make many difficult decisions, some that will leave him heartbroken. Throughout these challenges he never fails to serves as a symbol of home, hope and bravery to his crew. …show more content…

For instance, when on the island Aeaea, the island belonging to a goddess named Circe, she lures Odysseus’s men into her house and proceeds to turn them into pigs. One man alone escapes her trap and heads back and reports to Odysseus. Odysseus, instead of worrying about himself and his own well-being, heads into Circe’s house to avenge his crewmates. Odysseus explains his actions: “At that report, I slung my hefty bronze blade of my silver-studded sword around my shoulder.. And told our comrade, ‘lead me back the same way that you came’...necessity drives me on” (Odyssey, 238). This passage shows Odysseus as a true leader for he does not hesitate, does not even think twice, about putting himself in harm's way for his crew. He is clearly portrayed as someone who cares deeply, and is selfless when it comes to those who are close to him. Odysseus is ever loyal to his crew and would never leave them to fend for themselves. Because of this, Odysseus has proven himself to be a selfless and loyal

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