Commentary on The Odyssey Essay

The Odyssey is an Epic piece of literature, with many examples of what determination, strength, and intelligence can get someone. Manny of these examples come from two very strong characters in this story, Odysseus, the Epic Hero, and his wife Penelope. Their heroic qualities and their obvious weaknesss teach many people that no matter the mistake, everyone is human and has flaws. But with determination and perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle in their way and achieve their goal.

Odysseus was of the first Greek mythical heros. Odysseus is a great example of the Epic Hero. He became famous through his participation in the Trojan War. He was renowned for his brain and athleticism. He could fool anyone, and with this was able to get himself out of any situation. His ability to maintain composure, his quick thinking, and his patience helped him and his men through some very tough situations. Odysseuss patience was one of his most important characteristics, this patience can be seen when he dresses up as a beggar man when he got to Ithaca and waited for just the right moment to reveal himself.

Just because Odysseus is seen as a Greek mythic hero does not mean that he did not have many flaws. Although he achieved victory in the Trojan War, his arrogance got in the way. His arrogant criticism of the Gods is what sent him on his long perilous journey back to Ithaca in the first place. Although pride can be seen sometimes as a good characteristic for a hero to have, Odysseuss pride often clouded his better judgment. Odysseus enjoys women. His weakness for sexual pleasure is seen with Calypso and Circe. Calypsos sex appeal and powerful seduction temporarily put Odysseuss journey on hold. Odysseus spent one year with Circe before he was reminded of home by his men. She too used her powerful sex appeal and seduction to keep him around as long as possible. Odysseus has flaws and negative character traits, just like the rest of us, proving that no one in this world is perfect.

Odysseus was married to Penelope, the daughter of Icarius of Sparta and the mother of Telemachus, Odysseuss son. Penelope is a very strong character in this piece of literature. Penelope is a heroin and an equal to Odysseus in every way. Penelope represents all the qualities of the loyal, patient, devoted wife. Penelopes intelligence enables her to take control of any given situation, like her husband, and helps her to fool her suitors. To avoid from choosing a husband from her suitors Penelope came up with a plan. She announced that she was going to weave a shroud for her father-in-law, Laertes. She advised them that once she had finished, she would choose from the many of suitors available. Although it was unknown to her if her husband was alive or dead, she never gave up on hope or her beliefs. Her patience and loyalty gives her the strength to believe that her husband will return home. Her deciding not to remarry shows her courage and determination; these heroin qualities are what make Penelope the perfect example of faithfulness and fidelity.