The Representation Of An Epic Hero In Homer's Odyssey

Ancient literature has become the blueprints for literature today. Early literary works usually had a religious purpose to it although it is hidden in the context from the elevated or dignified language. For one to understand the concrete purpose of a true epic, research and analysis should take place. An epic is a long narrative which delivers a historical message focusing on a hero’s representation of their culture and themselves. Through-out the epic the characters are typically highborn related and gods or supernatural beings are involved with the conflict or journey that takes place. Over time ancient literature has evolved its definition of an “Epic Hero”. We now have a better understanding of how each epic hero is considered a true

In The Odyssey, Homer created a classical representation of epic ancient literature. Odysseus is exceptionally bright and courageous showing heroism facing any danger in his path even when in weakness to return home after the Trojan War. He shows determination and overcomes many obstacles on his journey back to his beloved wife Penelope and son of Ithaca. His adventure was filled with twenty years taking him through the Ionian Islands and as far away as Egypt and the Western Mediterranean, as the livid sea-god, Poseidon, prohibited him from accomplishing his goal of returning to his rocky kingdom. The Greek hero, Odysseus, leaves Ithaca with his warriors across Poseidon’s sea to fight against the Trojans. Odysseus uses something that was more powerful than his strength but it was his courage and intelligence that defeated the Trojans. He outwits the city of Troy secretively and masterfully to receive entrance with a scheming idea of Odysseus and his men inside the wooden Trojan horse. As soon as the Trojans thought they defeated Odysseus and his warriors, they were awakened

This epic explores the duty of the “perfect relationship” one should experience and perceive during a lifespan. It is a legendary epic that has been passed down for many generations of the Hindu culture modeling their society for over two thousand years. Rama was banished into the forest by his step mother for fourteen years but with no displeasure he smiled and said, "So be it! I shall immediately proceed to the forest, to dwell there clad in bark and animal skin" (Valmiki 729-730). Rama’s wife insisted on joining him into the dense forest as a wife should be devoted to her husband through any obstacles in marriage. As they began their years in the forest, many complications launch Rama’s way. Sita was kidnapped by Ravanna, but with willpower and bravery he could not match Rama’s desire of rescuing his wife. “It’s not right that you should thus grieve, O Vibhisana, for a mighty warrior fallen on the battlefield. Victory is the monopoly of none: a hero is either slain in battle or he kills his opponent” (Valmiki 755). Rama values his wives life more than his own and fought through many hardships but never lost sight of his eventual purpose. As they returned to the forest, Rama and Sita were arranged King and Queen of their righteous kingdom. Rama is honored by his people and culture because of his blemish-less qualities of obedient, respect, and