Quotes From The Odyssey

A character I find particularly interesting from the Odyssey is Odysseus. Throughout the epic, many quotes and situations reveal his cleverness, adaptability, resilience, determination, intelligence, and strategic thinking. In the opening lines of the epic, for example, Homer writes, “Muse, speak to me now of that resourceful man who wandered far and wide after ravaging the sacred citadel of Troy. He came to see many cities, where he learned their customs. “While on the sea his spirit suffered many torments,” which reveals that Odysseus’ cleverness and adaptability will serve him well through the many trials he faces throughout his journey (1.1-5). The reader also becomes aware of Odysseus’ desire for knowledge through learning about others’ cultures, which allows Odysseus to be better prepared to escape dangerous situations

Odysseus reveals that no matter his hardships, he will face them with the courage and strength to persevere and make it back home to his family. Furthermore, Homer reveals that Odysseus is strategic and intelligent when describing his interaction with Polyphemus. Odysseus states that his “name is Nobody”. [His] father and mother, all [his] other friends- they call [him] Nobody,” when introducing himself to Polyphemus (Homer 9.486-488). After Odysseus blinds him to escape, Polyphemus yells, “Nobody is killing him.” and the other gods who come to his aid leave, thinking that no one is hurting him (Homer 9.537). This play on words showcases Odysseus’ quick ability to think ahead and highlights his intelligence. If I were to create a playlist of three songs for Odysseus, the first song I would select is “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child (Survivor, 2001) because of its focus on persevering through adversity and