Odysseus' Goals in The Odyssey

Throughout the epic poem, The Odyssey, the central character Odysseus goes on a perilous journey in search of his ultimate goal: to return home to his kingdom of Ithaca. This essay will explore the various goals that Odysseus pursues in his quest, and the challenges he faces along the way. By examining his desire for personal glory, his longing for his homeland, and his quest for knowledge, it becomes clear that Odysseus' goals are multidimensional and shape the narrative of the poem. Despite the numerous obstacles he encounters, Odysseus remains determined to fulfill his goals, thus showcasing his resilience and strength as a hero.

Personal Glory

One of Odysseus' primary goals in The Odyssey is to achieve personal glory. This desire is evident from the very beginning of the poem, as Odysseus proudly introduces himself as "Odysseus, sacker of cities" (Book 9, line 19). He seeks to establish his reputation as a hero by conquering new lands, defeating mythical creatures, and outwitting his enemies. For example, when faced with the Cyclops Polyphemus, Odysseus cunningly blinds him and boasts, "I am nobody, nobody, nobody at all" (Book 9, line 366). This strategic move not only allows Odysseus to escape but also showcases his cleverness and resourcefulness.

Furthermore, Odysseus' desire for personal glory is also highlighted by his refusal to accept help or guidance from the gods. Despite the fact that the gods often intervene in his favor, Odysseus insists on relying on his own abilities. This is demonstrated when he rejects the offer of immortality from the goddess Calypso, stating that he would rather return home and die a mortal death (Book 5, line 231-234). Odysseus' unwavering determination to achieve personal glory sets him apart as a hero, as he is willing to face numerous challenges and risks in order to establish his name and reputation.

Longing for Homeland

Another crucial goal that Odysseus pursues in The Odyssey is his longing for his homeland, Ithaca. Throughout his ten-year journey, Odysseus constantly yearns to return to his kingdom, his wife Penelope, and his son Telemachus. This longing is most evident in the episodes where Odysseus encounters various distractions and temptations that threaten to divert him from his ultimate goal.

One such distraction is the enchantress Circe, who offers Odysseus eternal pleasure and immortality if he stays with her on her island. However, Odysseus resists this temptation, as his desire to reunite with his family and reclaim his throne outweighs any momentary pleasure (Book 10, line 222-228). This demonstrates Odysseus' unwavering commitment to his goal of returning home, even when faced with enticing alternatives.

Additionally, Odysseus' longing for his homeland is further emphasized through his encounters with the Sirens and the nymph Calypso. Both beings attempt to seduce Odysseus and keep him away from Ithaca. However, Odysseus resists their allure, as his desire to be reunited with his loved ones surpasses any allure of immortality or sensual pleasure. These encounters highlight the depth of Odysseus' longing for his homeland and his determination to overcome any obstacle that stands in his way.

Quest for Knowledge

Alongside his goals of personal glory and longing for his homeland, Odysseus also embarks on a quest for knowledge. He seeks to learn about the world, its creatures, and the nature of humanity. This quest is evident in his encounters with various mythical beings and in his interactions with different cultures along his journey.

For example, when Odysseus visits the land of the Lotus Eaters, he sends his men to investigate the island and discover its secrets. This showcases Odysseus' curiosity and desire for knowledge about the unknown. Similarly, when he confronts the Cyclops Polyphemus, Odysseus seeks to understand the nature of this creature and the extent of his powers. By blinding Polyphemus and escaping his wrath, Odysseus gains knowledge about the Cyclops and his weaknesses.

Furthermore, Odysseus' quest for knowledge is also evident in his interactions with different cultures and civilizations. When he arrives in the land of the Phaeacians, he engages in conversation with the king and queen, eager to learn about their customs and traditions. This curiosity reflects Odysseus' thirst for knowledge and his desire to broaden his understanding of the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Odysseus' goals in The Odyssey are multifaceted and shape the narrative of the poem. His pursuit of personal glory, longing for his homeland, and quest for knowledge are central to his character as a hero. Despite the challenges and obstacles he faces, Odysseus remains determined to fulfill his goals, showcasing his resilience and strength. Through his journey, readers are reminded of the importance of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's goals. The Odyssey serves as a timeless reminder of the human spirit and the power of setting and striving for goals, even in the face of adversity.

Bibliography

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