Odysseus And Ulysses Comparison

Homer’s epic The Odyssey and the film O Brother, Where Art Thou? are significantly similar despite several differences. The most visible differences between the two works are the setting, the number of main characters, and the background and status quo of the main character(s). They have numerous similarities, which include a wide variety of adventures, a re-enforced theme, and the pursuit to gain a reward at the end of the adventure. There are many similarities between the epic and the film, which are primarily shown through the main character’s goal, their purpose for the journey, and certain challenges that they faced. Although portrayed differently, both media’s include character archetypes that have the same purpose in the story. The Epic Hero in The Odyssey is Odysseus, and in the film the Epic Hero is Ulysses. In both media’s, both Odysseus and Ulysses can be seen as tricksters because Ulysses tricked his friends into escaping for a treasure, and Odysseus tricked characters in the story with his false tales. An example of Campbell’s framework for the Hero’s Journey is, in both media’s the return to the elixir involves the characters

One of the most visible differences is epic takes place many centuries ago, while the film takes place in recent time, around the 1930’s. I believe the director of the film decided to make it more recent to make the story more relevant to its audience, and to show how writings from many years ago can still be adapted to a more contemporary way of life. Another difference that I noticed was how in The Odyssey, Penelope waited for Odysseus to return, and in the film, Penny was about to remarry only to then go back to Ulysses. This shows to the viewer that Penelope is more faithful and loyal to her romantic interest. Changing this part of the story because it brings a twist to the story and also allows for comedic relief in certain