The Many Sides of Odysseus throughout the Epic story of the Odyssey - Essay Example

In each and every adventure that befalls Odysseus we see various facets of his character and his wanderings are seen as stages in development of humanity as a whole. We learn about ourselves through Odysseus while realizing that each stage of our life is a learning exercise: we live as we learn. The Odyssey, a tale of Odysseus’ journey back home after long years at war is also the tale of his spiritual journey through his own soul. As Odysseus leaves Troy for home, he is the typical bloodthirsty warrior.

He leaves Troy feeling almost immortal and this pride is what leads to his downfall. In the course of his journey, Odysseus undergoes a symbolic death and rebirth and in the end becomes an epic hero regaining power over his household and has restored order to his life. Upon his arrival in Ithaca, it is evident that he has become a wiser man- more humble and more respectful. Homer skillfully inter-relates adventures, feelings and experiences of his characters. The vivid description and expressive language make the reading understandable to any age and social group.

Even though the story is mythical, filled with ghosts, monsters and giants, the main themes can be interrelated with today’s issues of scheming, cunning, struggle for survival, race New facets of Odysseus’ character are revealed through each of his adventures. After Odysseus and his men depart from Troy, they land in Ismara. After looting the city Odysseus wisely tells his men to board the ships quickly, but they pay no heed and the next morning, the crew is attacked by the Ciconians. Odysseus manages to escape with tears in his eyes for his lost crew.

“But Odysseus, clutching his flaring sea-blue cape in both powerful hands, drew it over his head and buried his handsome face” He does not disclose his identity to the Ciconians showing that he is capable of thinking ahead of his opponent displaying his superior