Is Odysseus an Epic Hero?

Odysseus exemplifies adventure, courage, and the values of the Greeks, but does that make him a hero? An epic hero is not only a personification of that culture but also the best version of that culture. The Odyssey is a narrative poem that was sung by Homer. The Odyssey requires location soon after the fall of Troy in the Iliad. In Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, the character of Odysseus fits he element of an epic hero as demonstrated by his hard trials, sophisticated cleverness, and superior strength.

Odysseus has completed several difficult trials. For instance, Odysseus had to leave the land of the lotus-eaters in spite of his crew’s thoughts about it being a calm and peaceful spot. “But I brought them back, back to the hollow ships, and streaming tears – I forced them…”(214). Not only does this show his physical strength but also shows his hardships as the leader. This passage demonstrates that Odysseus acted for the betterment of his crew even though it brought him pain. Not only has Odysseus gone by way of pain but he has also dealt his fair share. Odysseus is really powerful and strong this is particularly prevalent in battle with his enemies. “So we seized our stake with its fiery tip and bored it round and round in the giant’s eye.”(223).

It must have taken a deal of strength to bore a stake into the eye of such a great creature as the cyclops. Odysseus once more faced a trial and utilized his excellent strength to safeguard himself and his crew. Physical strength is wasted if not matched with mental strength. That is why it is fortunate that Odysseus possesses a fantastic deal of each. It has currently been shown that Odysseus used great physical strength to defeat the cyclops, but he also necessary mental strength. “ I poured him another fiery bowl-3 bowls I brimmed…the fool…”(222). Odysseus is using alcohol to decrease the reasoning of the cyclops a wonderful deal and take advantage of him, consequently, rising his own mental and physical capacities in comparison.

In Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, the character Odysseus fits the archetype of an epic hero as demonstrate by his difficult trials, sophisticated cleverness, and superior strength. All of which are vital variables frequently observed in the story. Odysseus necessary his cleverness, energy, and endurance to push by means of as the epic hero he is. Odysseus totally represents the excellent traits of his civilization. His strength, ingenuity, and perseverance via trials make Odysseus an epic hero.