Odysseus: a Study in Character Traits

Throughout the epic poem, "The Odyssey," the character of Odysseus is presented with a myriad of challenges that test his courage, intelligence, and leadership skills. Odysseus, the hero of the Trojan War, is known for his cunning and quick thinking. However, his character is far from one-dimensional. He possesses a range of traits that both define and shape his journey. This essay will explore several key character traits of Odysseus as depicted in Book 9 of "The Odyssey," examining how these traits contribute to his overall development and impact the narrative.

The Resourceful Odysseus

One of the most prominent character traits of Odysseus is his resourcefulness. Throughout the story, he frequently finds himself in dangerous situations and must rely on his ingenuity to escape. In Book 9, Odysseus and his men find themselves trapped in the cave of the Cyclops Polyphemus. Odysseus devises a plan to blind the Cyclops and escape, showcasing his ability to think on his feet and outsmart his enemies.

This trait is further highlighted when Odysseus encounters the enchantress Circe. Instead of succumbing to her magic, he uses his wit to trick her into releasing his men and providing them with supplies for their journey. Odysseus' resourcefulness not only helps him survive but also demonstrates his ability to adapt in unfamiliar and treacherous situations.

The Cunning Odysseus

Another defining trait of Odysseus is his cunning. He is known for his ability to deceive and manipulate others to achieve his goals. In Book 9, Odysseus demonstrates this trait when he encounters the Lotus-eaters. He allows his men to taste the lotus fruit, which causes them to forget their desire to return home. By doing so, Odysseus ensures their loyalty by preventing them from leaving the island.

This cunning nature is further exemplified when Odysseus encounters the Cyclops Polyphemus. Instead of revealing his true identity, Odysseus introduces himself as "Nobody." This clever deception allows him to blind the Cyclops and escape without revealing his true name. Odysseus' cunning not only helps him overcome obstacles but also showcases his ability to manipulate situations to his advantage.

The Resilient Odysseus

One of Odysseus' most admirable traits is his resilience. Despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges, he remains determined to return home to his wife and kingdom. In Book 9, Odysseus and his men face the wrath of the Cyclops Polyphemus, who devours several of his crew members. Despite this devastating loss, Odysseus refuses to abandon his mission and continues his journey.

This resilience is further exemplified when Odysseus encounters the enchantress Circe. Instead of becoming her captive, he manages to outsmart her and convinces her to release his men. This resilience not only showcases his determination to overcome obstacles but also highlights his unwavering commitment to his goal of returning home.

The Courageous Odysseus

Lastly, Odysseus is characterized by his immense courage. He fearlessly faces perilous situations, often risking his own life for the sake of his crew and his mission. In Book 9, Odysseus confronts the Cyclops Polyphemus, knowing full well the danger that awaits him. Despite the potential consequences, he chooses to engage in battle, showcasing his bravery and selflessness.

Odysseus' courage is further displayed when he encounters the enchantress Circe. Instead of succumbing to her enchantments, he confronts her head-on and demands the release of his men. This act of bravery not only saves his crew but also demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his responsibilities as a leader.

Conclusion

Odysseus' character traits of resourcefulness, cunning, resilience, and courage are essential to his development as a hero in "The Odyssey." These traits not only shape his journey but also contribute to the overall narrative of the epic poem. Odysseus' resourcefulness allows him to navigate treacherous situations, his cunning helps him outwit his enemies, his resilience fuels his determination to return home, and his courage drives him to face peril head-on.

By examining these character traits in Book 9 of "The Odyssey," we gain a deeper understanding of Odysseus' complex nature and the challenges he must overcome. Furthermore, these traits provide valuable insight into the human condition, highlighting the importance of wit, adaptability, determination, and bravery in the face of adversity.

Bibliography

Homer. The Odyssey. Translated by Robert Fagles, Penguin Classics, 1996.