Examples Of Heroism In The Odyssey

Odysseus could be considered an epic hero because he has a numerous amount of characteristics that make him so. For example, he’s very loyal, for instance, when Odysseus’ men get caught, trapped, and turned into pigs. “Circe gives Odysseus a magic drink, but it does not affect him, and he threatens to kill her with his sword. Circe turns the pigs back into men and puts them all into a trance.” (Homer 15). Circe keeps the men for 1 year, but Odysseus eventually saves all his men. Another characteristic that he has is being a great warrior. He fought in the Trojan War for 10 years. He also fought the Cyclops, again to save his men he risked his life and stabbed the cyclops in the eye. “Eyelid and lash were seared: the pierced ball hissed broiling, and the roots popped.” (Homer 9). Some of the traits that exemplify his heroism traits are his cleverness, determination, and his bravery. These examples show how Odysseus will do anything to save and fight for his men no matter the circumstances which is very important when it comes to an epic hero. He gets supernatural help from Hermes, Zeus,

He still is a considerable hero, a very hubris hero at that, he still a hero when it’s most important. The true definition to an epic hero is, “A brave and noble character in a epic poem or story, who is admired fir great achievements by great events” (Dictionary.com). He faces many monsters, ladies, and he shows his good side and his bad side. On many occasions Odysseus has saved his men. He has all traits but one, noble birth, feats of courage and strength, he’s a warrior, he’s a vast traveler (he’s been away from home for 20 years, he’s a national hero, faces supernatural feats, and he gets supernatural help. He also doesn’t leave anyone behind, he’s a great warrior, he’s very good at strategy, he’s also very brave. With all of these characteristics he is classified as an epic