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The Transformation Of Odysseus In Homer's Odyssey

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Odysseus, a hero in Greek mythology, was known for his intelligence, loyalty, and quick-witted thinking. Traits such as these were strengths of his but were progressively developed and added to throughout his expedition. However, with his strengths came weaknesses. For example, Odysseus contained negative traits such as arrogance and pride. Just as every champion takes part in a journey to resolve the problems that arise in life and become a better person in general, Odysseus went through a series of challenges that tested his endurance, therefore changing him. This transformation of character marked the beginning and end of his 20-year journey away from his kingdom after the Trojan War. The hero started his journey after playing a part in the conflict of Troy and was on a mission to return to his kingdom in Ithaca, his wife Penelope, and his son Telemachus. Odysseus must …show more content…

As the journey begins, Odysseus and his men sail from Troy to an island inhabited by the Lotus Eaters. At this time, his men were overcome with the idea and action of forgetting their problems and chose to live in a state of idleness as they partook of the lotus, a “drug” of that time. Odysseus, with a clear goal in mind, abstained from this activity, letting his sense of loyalty come through. He stated, “...no one taste the Lotus, or you lose your hope of home” (Homer 564). Odysseus’ loyalty being present at the beginning of his voyage shows that he doesn’t have difficulty remembering the task at hand, an important quality of a leader. In another test of character, Odysseus has an encounter with a cyclops. When the Cyclops, Polyphemus, was away from his cave, Odysseus and his men expected hospitality and allowed themselves into the stranger’s residence, his first mistake. Upon his return, Odysseus

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