Odysseus, the protagonist of Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey, is a complex character with a range of virtues and flaws. While he is widely regarded as a hero, some scholars argue that he is actually an anti-hero. In this essay, I will examine Odysseus's character and actions throughout the epic, using textual evidence to determine whether or not he can be classified as an anti-hero.
One of the key arguments in favor of Odysseus being an anti-hero is his tendency to engage in deceit and trickery. Throughout the Odyssey, Odysseus employs a variety of tactics to achieve his goals, from disguising himself as a beggar to sneaking into the enemy's camp at night. While some of these actions are justified, such as when he lies to the Cyclops to save himself and his men, others are more morally ambiguous. For example, when he disguises himself as a beggar upon returning to Ithaca, he does so in order to test the loyalty of his servants. This test ultimately results in the slaughter of his enemies, suggesting that Odysseus is more concerned with his own goals than with justice or morality.
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For example, when he and his men encounter the sirens, he orders his crew to plug their ears with wax so that they will not be tempted by the sirens' song. However, he himself chooses to listen to the song, putting his own desire for knowledge above the safety and well-being of his crew. Similarly, when he is offered the chance to stay with Calypso on her island, he initially chooses to remain with her, despite the fact that his wife and son are waiting for him at home. These actions suggest that Odysseus is more concerned with his own desires and interests than with the well-being of those around