Odysseus Lessons Essay

Odysseus’ Lessons Throughout the Odyssey "There are certain lessons that you can only learn in the struggle" (Koyenikan). In the epic poem, The Odyssey, Homer tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, who wanders and endures hardships for ten years to get home after the Trojan War. In Homer's The Odyssey, translated by Emily Wilson, Odysseus learns to be courageous and control himself, but he needs to learn to manage his prideful nature. Throughout his journey, Odysseus gradually learns the value of courage. On his way home, he needs to visit King Alcinous for ships, men, and supplies. Disguised as a young girl, Athena stops Odysseus before he enters the home of King Alcinous. Odysseus is scared, but Athena comforts him: "'Do not be scared;

Not only does Odysseus resist the temptation to show off his athletic skills, but he also expresses a deep desire to return home to his wife and family despite the advancements of other women. When Odysseus is asking for King Alcinous' help, the king asks why Odysseus wants to return home so desperately. Odysseus answers, "As you know, divine Calypso held me in her cave, wanting to marry me; and likewise Circe, the trickster, trapped me, and she wanted me to be her husband. But she never swayed my heart, since when a man is far from home.there is no sweeter thing than his own native land and family" (Homer 9.30-37). Odysseus claims he wants to go back home to be with his family and be in his native land. He has relations with both these women, but he still decides to leave them because he realizes that his true desire is to return to his homeland and family. Sheila Murnaghan states in her "'Introduction' to Odyssey", "[a]n ability to resist pleasure as well, to defer the gratifications of food, sex, and beautiful music.in the end, Odysseus' self-control allows him to survive when none of his companions do" (Murnaghan

In addition to having to resist temptations, Odysseus must endure many hardships. After he arrives in the underworld, he starts a conversation with the prophet Tiresias. Tiresias tells him, "'Odysseus, you think of going home.[y]ou have to suffer, but you can get home, if you control your urges and your men" (Homer 11.100, 104-105). Odysseus survives the journey to the underworld to meet Tiresias. When he is there, the prophet tells him that he must suffer more and control his urges more than he already has. However, Tiresias acknowledges the hardship that Odysseus must endure, but he also gives the hero a glimmer of hope that gives Odysseus motivation. In conclusion, Odysseus gains the crucial understanding of the importance of practicing self-restraint in the face of temptations and adversities, which is a significant evolution of his character. Despite Odysseus learning some lessons along his journey, he still needs to master his pride. When Odysseus and his men are fighting Polyphemus, the cyclops ask for his name. Odysseus replies, "Cyclops, you asked my name." I will reveal it.my name is Noman. My family and friends all call me Noman" (Homer 9.364-367).