Odysseus

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1. What do we learn about the character of Odysseus—good and bad—in his confrontation
with Polyphemos, the Cyclops?
a. Odysseus exhibits several traits common to heroes in Greek literature and mythology in
Book 9 of The Odyssey. When Odysseus meets the cyclops, he displays his cunning and
predisposition to trickery by introducing himself as “Nobody.” In this way, he prevents
Polyphemos from receiving help as he claims that “Nobody” is killing him. This
cleverness is a characteristic trait of a Greek hero. Odysseus’ hubris is his downfall
however, as he taunts the cyclops and thereby endangers the lives of his men. Polyphemos
is angered by the man’s actions and attacks their ship as it sails away. Despite seeing the
dangerous results of his taunting, Odysseus continues to mock the cyclops, who then calls
upon the wrath of the Gods. Despite the error of his actions, Odysseus still portrays a hero
through his cleverness and strength. He is a classical hero because he falls prey to his own
hubris and must overcome it. Overall Odysseus remains a solid and admirable leader,
because he is strong, courageous, and decisive. When his men begin to eat the fruit that
causes them to want to stay, he returns them to the task at hand and leads them away. His
cleverness is also a great trait for a leader, because his quick thinking allowed his men to
escape the lair of the cyclops. However, his overconfidence put his men in danger, and was
a trait that a true leader would need to overcome.
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