Odysseus, the protagonist in Homer’s The Odyssey, undeniably possesses the characteristics of an epic hero. With assistance from various individuals, he triumphs over a range of legendary adversaries and garners respect from people near and far. These three aspects distinguish an ordinary character in a narrative from an authentic epic hero.
Throughout Odysseus’s long journey to his home in Ithaca, many minor characters support him. For instance, Hermes provides him with the Moly plant to protect against Circe’s magic potion, allowing Odysseus to rescue his crew and leave the island. Additionally, Athena later offers a life-saving suggestion to Odysseus.
She informs him that there are approximately one hundred suitors seeking to wed his wife and she disguises him as a beggar to enable him to enter unnoticed. Another instance in the tale where Athena assists Odysseus occurs towards the conclusion of the massive clash between the suitors and Odysseus’s crew, in which she fought alongside Odysseus in order to slay the remaining men. Eumaeus, Philoetius, and Telemachus, three other men, remained loyal to Odysseus and fought until the very end of the intense battle against the suitors.
The loyal companions of Odysseus had different roles in the fight, but they all shared the same ultimate purpose. Eumaeus ensured that the gate was closed to prevent the suitors from escaping. Philoetius took charge of securing all the women’s quarters. Meanwhile, Telemachus, Odysseus’ son, provided swords and shields for everyone to use in battle.
Throughout his journey, Odysseus relied on Hermes, Athena, his son, and his old friends for assistance. Without their support, he would not have survived until the end.
In addition to facing supernatural adversaries that further showcased his status as an epic hero,
Polyphemus, a Cyclops, and Circe, an immortal witch, were two of the most obviously supernatural characters in the story. Polyphemus’ enormous size and strength far surpassed any man, while Circe used her magic to combat Odysseus’s men. Despite defeating both the Cyclops and Circe, Odysseus encountered another supernatural being on his journey – Scylla. Scylla, a monstrous creature, had a unique body shape and size unlike any natural beings.
Throughout their journey, the characters encounter various supernatural beings. Yet, what distinguishes an epic hero is their ability to confront three adversaries and suffer minimal casualties. Odysseus possesses not only the affection of his loved ones but also earns admiration from people worldwide, solidifying his status as a genuine epic hero. Despite being recognized as the king of Ithaca, Odysseus’s role transcends mere rulership. Initially, at a feast with the Phaecians, he hears tales about himself.
Although the Phaecians did not realize they were speaking to the King, they still praised Odysseus. His true identity is once again recognized in Book nine when Polyphemus, after being blinded by Odysseus, concludes that only the mighty and formidable Odysseus could be his attacker. Similarly, Circe is able to identify Odysseus when he does not transform into a pig because she had faith in his intelligence to overcome her magic.
When three characters from different locations are aware of Odysseus, it can be assumed that he is a popular figure, beyond his royal status. While a typical character may conquer obstacles, face monsters, and receive assistance from a friend, Odysseus surpasses expectations and distinguishes himself as an epic hero. Various characters consistently offer their aid to Odysseus, he confronts numerous supernatural challenges, and he is renowned by nearly everyone as an exceptional individual. Taking these factors into account, Odysseus will undoubtedly be remembered as an epic hero in history.
