Pros And Cons Of Odysseus

The eight Greek evil thoughts are a set of moral codes where, when practiced, was believed that one would have a less fulfilling life as they were less of a human. In the distinguished episode by, “The Cyclops”, of the epic, The Odyssey, Odysseus and his crew encounter the Cyclops Polyphemus in his cave on the island of the Cyclopes. Using Odysseus' wits, the men manage to deceive Polyphemus and escape the cave to their ship where they row away from the dangers of the island of the Cyclopes. Although Odysseus falls prey to several of the Greek evil thoughts, the thoughts he most prominently falls prey to is Hyperephania (pride) and kenodoxia (boasting). Hyperephania is a Greek evil thought wherein one is narcissistic as they expect admiration from others when it is not deserved.

256-258). Although admitting to Polyphemus that they are enemies, Odysseus is prideful for being witty enough to expect to be treated invitingly and adequately as guests. Pride leads Odysseus to make remarks to Polyphemus in a condescending manner. As his men row away, Odysseus retorts, “‘How do you like the beating that we gave you, you damned cannibal? Eater of guests under your roof! Zeus and the gods have paid you!’” (477-480). Odysseus’ pride makes readers aware that he feels superior to the Cyclopes as he claims the gods have paid Polyphemus, articulates that he knows the gods personally. Similarly, kenodoxia is the Greek thought of forcing praise from others by boasting about one's accomplishments rather than gaining admiration