Odysseus, the Epic Hero

Odysseus, the protagonist in “The Odyssey”, by Homer, is like a juicy burger. Just like a burger, Odysseus’ physical qualities are the bun, and all his other traits are covered by that bun. He utilizes ideal qualities, and he perseveres despite desires to give up, he is helped by gods and mortals, and he regains his glory and power at the end. It is these traits that help him to overcome the ravaging roadblocks in his way, thus also making him an Ancient Greek epic hero. These four traits show that the Ancient Greeks valued people who are strong in mind and body, endure more than men can, give help to those in need, and are able to prove their worth .

One of the four epic hero traits that Odysseus has, is that he has a plethora of exemplary attributes. For instance, Odysseus is able to “bored [bore] that [the] great eye socket” with an olive branch that he found in the cave, showing the extent of Odysseus’ formidable might (IX 420). In addition, Odysseus is also able to “strike and strike again” at the suitors while they “moaned [moan] at death” (XXll 345-346). This emphasizes the power and endurance that Odysseus has. Moreover, when Eurykleia tells Penelope that if she has seen Odysseus after the suitor slaughter, it would have made “your (her) heart grow hot”, because Odysseus is like “a lion splashed with mire and blood”, and it emphasizes Ancient Greek values of strength (Xlll 50-51). Another exemplary attribute that Odysseus possesses is his quick-thinking and strategic mind. This can be illustrated when Odysseus cleverly uses the Kyklopes’ rams and “slung [slings] a man under… to ride there safely” (IX 468-469). This cunning act is committed during a time of high stress, which further demonstrates the idea of Odyss...

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...d. After Odysseus tells her the “secret sign”, it enables him to regain the trust of his wife and reclaim her (XXlll 213). In addition, Odysseus also needs to regain his grieving father after so many long years. After Odysseus tests his father to determine if he is still grieving, Laertes does the same to Odysseus, and asks for “some proof, a sign to make me sure” and Laertes wish is fulfilled (XXIV 363). Thus, Odysseus reclaims his father, his family, and his kingdom. Odysseus reclaiming all that used to be his, shows that Ancient Greeks valued those who can prove their worth, time and time again.

In summary, Odysseus clearly possesses the four epic hero traits. The fact that he triumphed in the end shows that Odysseus has traits that the Ancient Greeks admire. Specifically, Odysseus has both outer strength and good inner substance, like a burger.