odyssues

In book II of Homer’s Odyssey, Mentor describes Odysseus as a “thoughtful, mild, kindly” king ruling his city like a “gentle father.” Mentor’s description does not convey the full aspects of Odysseus’ personality. It is true that in most parts of the poem, Odysseus appears to be a wise, gentle and caring leader. With his composure and guile, he is able to save himself and his shipmates from jeopardy many times; because of his mild manner, he seems more a of a dear friend to his crew than a commander; being kind, he has the absolute loyalty of his grateful slaves. However, there are also moments when he is rash, headstrong and inconsiderate. He loses his prudence when elated by his triumph over the powerful Kyklops Polyphemos and puts his men in great peril; he ventures into the Kyklops’ island despite his crews’ reluctance; he at times can also be selfish, sending his crew into unknown land of Kirke to avoid potential danger from himself. Mentor’s description of Odysseus is too partial. He has idolized his king and portrayed an idealized image of him.

The protagonist is exceptionally cunning and calm. He is known as the man

Odysseus is not an all-selfless man. On Kirke’s island, he spots Kirke’s house. Having just fled the Kyklops’ island and the Laistrgonian height, the painful memory of cannibalism is still vivid with Odysseus, so he ponders if if he should go inland scouting that house, and he decides it is better not to take the risk but return to his ship and send others to explore (169). Therefore, when Eurolokhos later returns telling Odysseus of the perils in Kirke’s house, and Odysseus decides to go to that house despite Eurolokhos’ begging for the ship to leave, one wonders if Odysseus is confronting the dangers solely out of care for his lost companion or his bravado plays a part too? If Odysseus cares so much about those men, he would not have sent them to danger in the first place.

Some topics in this essay:
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