Homers Epic Poem, The Odyssey Essay - 1051 Words

In Homers epic poem, the Odyssey, the recurring theme of intelligence is important because through intelligence, Odysseus is able to utilize wit and cunning to suit his needs and wants, as well as defeat bigger and stronger opponents than he. Through the stories of Odysseus sufferings throughout the Trojan War and his struggles of homecoming, Homer portrays intelligence as being an effective application of strength used to gain an advantage over his opponents. Odysseus is depicted as an intellectual hero, who focuses on brain and sophrosune, rather than the typical martial hero, such as Achilles in the Iliad, who focuses on brawn and action provoked by emotion. The first instance when readers are told of Odysseus great skill in the†¦show more content†¦The difference between how each hero is depicted helps emphasize the difference between the martial hero and the intellectual hero. Supporting the descriptions of Odysseus by Menelaus and Nestor, Odysseus displays his ability to utilize wit and cunning to get what he wants, cautiously but quickly. This is first shown when Calypso tells Odysseus that he is free to go home and he is immediately suspicious that shes plotting something else (5.192) and he makes her swear a binding oath [shell] never plot some new intrigue to harm [him] (5.198). The fact he is able to become suspicious and take the time to ensure that he isnt being deceived, as opposed to becoming overjoyed and giving into his strong desire of returning home after being held captive for ten years shows his self-restraint over his emotions. This contrasts with Achilles lack of sophrosune because Achilles is very rash in the decisions he makes in Troy as shown, in Book 1 when down on the ground he dashed the scepter (1.287) after his quarrel with Agamemnon. By doing this, he gives up all the power he once had, making him an outcast. Furthermore, additional proof of Odysseus ability to think through situations is demonstrated in Book 6 when Naus icaa and her maids wake Odysseus up and he, naked, steps out of the bushes and contemplates about whether he shouldShow MoreRelatedHomer’S Two Tales, The Iliad And The Odyssey, Are Both1749 Words   |  7 PagesHomer’s two tales, the Iliad and the Odyssey, are both incredibly well known and widely taught across the world and at many different levels of education. Some call Homer the â€Å"greatest poet to ever live† and although this can be disputed his works truly speak for themselves and have braved the test of time quite well. 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