Anvi Batta Mrs. Finnegan English 9 Honors B 3 March 2024 Journeying Through Ancient Greek Ideals Shown in The Odyssey Embark on a timeless journey with Odysseus in the epic poem The Odyssey written by Homer and translated by Robert Fagles, as he faces challenges and showcases virtues. The epic hero, Odysseus, is on his way back home from the ten-year-long Trojan War. On his journey back, he encounters many conflicts and undergoes difficult challenges that delay his return home to Ithaca by another ten years. Even after completing his expedition to get home, Odysseus is confronted with more difficulty that he has to conquer. The Odyssey shows many of the traits that the Greeks valued throughout Odysseus’ journey. It delves into many cultural aspects …show more content…
This episode reveals Odysseus’ ability to adapt to challenging circumstances. In contrast to his adaptability in the face of Circe’s sorcery, Odysseus has finally had enough of the suitors. He demonstrates remarkable physical prowess and agility as he seeks revenge against them, exemplifying determination, anger, long-awaited patience, and physical strength to reclaim his kingdom and family honor, ‘“You dogs! you never imagined I'd return from Troy /so cocksure that you bled my house to death,/ ravished my serving-women/wooed my wife/ behind my back while I was still alive!’” (22.36-39). His manner of addressing the suitors speaks volumes of vengeance, reflecting justified anger, patience, and strategic planning as he features strength. Odysseus demonstrates how ancient Greeks valued being smart and strong by using their brains and brawn, to navigate substantial hardships. While overcoming major trials, gods' goodwill is important, especially because they can bring disasters upon the mortals. Odysseus, along with his men, remains frightened of the deathless gods on Helios’ island “when supplies aboard [have] all run