Epic Hero of the Year

Epic Hero of the Year

An epic hero is an expert in all he does, formidable, and ruthless; they seem competent of accomplishing anything. In The Odyssey by Homer, Odysseus is portrayed as these characteristics and much more. The obstacles he conquers make him seem immortal to the reader; he defeats monsters, defies the gods, and strikes trepidation into all of his rivals. It is these characteristics that make Odysseus the most legendary epic hero of all time.

To start with, Homer starts out with, "...skilled in all ways of contending," (p.895). Observe how Homer used the word all instead of most, or some; he indicates that Odysseus must be the most skilled in all conduct, he wasn't missing any skills. Soon after, it is then said, "He saw the townlands and learned the mind of many distant men," (p. 895). This exemplifies the fact that, when Odysseus was traveling, he didn't have a problem with communicating with people from different lands and fortresses. His mind was open to different people and cultures, he easily understood other people.

Then Homer describes Odysseus as, "After he plundered the stronghold on the proud height of Troy." (p.895).Troy wasn't just a normal city, it was known for its high walls and great leaders. Troy was furthermore famous for its nearly invincible armies and untouched records of triumphs when it came to combat, yet Odysseus had "plundered" this scene of prominence and immensity. Later Odysseus says, "Men hold me formidable for guile in peace and war," (p. 896). This again shows how much skill others knew he had. This also shows that he may have been a good fighter but he's still very good with peace.

Subsequent to his long excruciating journey, Odysseus returns home, he defeats the suitors. Homer describes then killing of the suitors as, "The suitors various unsuccessful attempts to expel Odysseus" (p. 960). Notice how Homer uses the underlined word to portray how well Odysseus controls the situation. It seems as though the endeavors of the suitors didn't even daunt him. Then Homer Goes on to say, "Falcons who show no mercy to the flocks of birds they pursue and capture." (p.960). This illustrates his brutality towards his rivals and enemies. It gives you the picture that he and his crew would not