Odysseus In Homer's Odyssey

Peoples loved one’s tent to motivate them more than anyone else un their lives. Others would do anything for their family especially if never seeing them again was on the line. In the Odyssey, Homer uses external conflicts to portray Odysseus as a courageous and determined character. Homer reveals Odysseus to be courageous through his voyage. For instance, Odysseus returned to his home “disguised as a beggar” (794) so he would not be recognized. He disguised himself because he knew the suitors in his home would recognize him. The suitors have been trying to marry his wife for twenty years, if he showed up they would have no chance of marrying Penelope and they would be furious. Odysseus being courageous still went into his home knowing the danger he would face if he was recognized. Another example, of Odysseus being courageous is when he set sail knowing “Poseidon by no mean [was] ready to allow an easy passage” (752). He uses his intelligence to determined to leave and be daring. He is aware the Gods are still upset him but he proceeds to try and reunite with his family. Therefore Odysseus is courageous and not afraid to do anything in order to get back with his family.

An example of his determination is shown when he “spen[ds] ten years trying to get home,” (752) after the Trojan war has ended. Seven of the ten years were spent with Calypso. He continued to remain positive and strong after ten years of being away from home. Later on, in the expedition, Odysseus and his men came across Lotus-eaters who offered them a taste of the Lotus flower. Captivated by the beauty, the shipmates consumed the magical flower. This leads them to forget about ever returning home. As a result, Odysseus became motivated to get all of his shipmates home so he “tied them down under their rowing benches” (212) and set sail. In conclusion, these actions taken by Odysseus show that he is a committed