The Odyssey: Characters

In The Odyssey the characters can be divided into two groups: the main characters (Odysseus, Telemachus, Penelope, Athena, Circe, Calypso) and the minor characters. This section provides analysis of both the major and the minor characters in The Odyssey.

Odysseus

Odysseus

Odysseus, the protagonist of Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey, is a complex and multifaceted character whose traits and actions evolve throughout the story. At the outset, he is portrayed as a courageous, cunning, and resourceful hero, whose intelligence and strategic thinking enable him to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. However, as the story progresses, his flaws and weaknesses are revealed, including his pride, impulsiveness, and tendency to act rashly. Ultimately, Odysseus character is defined by his struggle to find his way home and reclaim his identity as a king, husband, and father.

One of Odysseus’ defining traits is his intelligence and cunning. He is a master of disguise, able to assume multiple identities in order to achieve his goals. He feigns madness in order to avoid being drafted into the Trojan War, and later disguises himself as a beggar in order to infiltrate his own palace and assess the situation with the suitors. His cleverness and ability to think on his feet enable him to survive numerous trials, such as his encounter with the cyclops Polyphemus, whom he blinds by telling him his name is “Nobody”. Odysseus’ intelligence is also evident in his leadership skills, as he is able to inspire and motivate his crew even in the face of danger and uncertainty.

However, Odysseus’ intelligence is often tempered by his pride and impulsiveness. He is quick to anger and prone to violence, which often leads him into trouble. His pride is evident in his refusal to heed the warnings of the gods, such as when he provokes the wrath of Poseidon by blinding his son Polyphemus. His impulsiveness is also evident in his decision to reveal his true identity to the Cyclops, which ultimately leads to the prolongation of his journey home. Additionally, his tendency to act rashly and without considering the consequences leads him to engage in dangerous and foolhardy acts, such as when he disregards his men’s warnings and opens the bag of winds, causing a storm that sends them off course.

Despite his flaws, Odysseus is ultimately a sympathetic character, whose struggles and journey home evoke feelings of empathy and admiration. His loyalty to his family and homeland is unwavering, and he endures incredible hardships in order to reclaim his identity and reunite with his loved ones. His encounters with characters such as Circe and Calypso reveal his vulnerability and his longing for companionship, highlighting his humanity and his need for connection.

In conclusion, Odysseus is a complex and multifaceted character, whose traits and actions reflect his strengths and weaknesses. His intelligence and cunning are tempered by his pride and impulsiveness, which often lead him into trouble. However, his loyalty and determination to reclaim his identity and reunite with his family are admirable, and ultimately make him a sympathetic and relatable character. His journey home is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit, and his character remains a timeless symbol of courage, resilience, and heroism.

Telemachus

Telemachus from the Odyssey

Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, is one of the key characters in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey. Throughout the story, he undergoes a significant transformation from a timid and uncertain youth to a confident and assertive young man.

At the beginning of the story, Telemachus is shown to be a vulnerable and powerless young man who is struggling to assert himself in a household that is dominated by his mother's suitors. He is afraid to confront them and often feels frustrated and helpless. However, as the story progresses, Telemachus begins to find his voice and becomes more assertive in his actions.

One of the key moments in the character development of Telemachus in The Odyssey occurs in Book 2, when he confronts the suitors in his home and demands that they leave. This is a bold move for Telemachus, who has always been passive in the face of the suitors' aggression. However, he is motivated by the arrival of Athena, who encourages him to take action and seek out information about his father's fate.

Throughout the rest of the story, Telemachus continues to grow in confidence and courage. He takes on a more active role in the search for his father and becomes a key player in the battle against the suitors. He also gains the respect and admiration of his father, who is impressed by his son's bravery and intelligence.

One of the most significant aspects of Telemachus' character is his relationship with his father. Despite the fact that they have been separated for many years, Telemachus remains fiercely loyal to his father and is determined to find out what happened to him. This loyalty drives him to take risks and to pursue his goals with determination.

In addition to his loyalty to his father, Telemachus also displays other admirable traits such as intelligence, wisdom, and empathy. He is able to see through the false promises of the suitors and is not swayed by their flattery. He also shows compassion towards his mother and is able to understand her struggles and challenges.

Overall, Telemachus is a complex and multi-dimensional character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the course of The Odyssey. He starts out as a vulnerable and uncertain youth but gradually becomes a confident and assertive young man who is respected by all those around him. His loyalty to his father, his intelligence, and his empathy make him a compelling character and a key figure in the story.

Penelope

Penelope from the Odyssey

Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, is one of the most complex and intriguing characters in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey. Throughout the story, she is portrayed as a strong and resourceful woman who is able to resist the advances of the suitors and remain loyal to her husband.

At the beginning of the story, Penelope is shown to be grieving for her husband, who has been absent for many years. Despite the pressure from the suitors, who are eager to take her as their bride, she remains loyal to Odysseus and continues to hope for his return. She is also shown to be intelligent and resourceful, as evidenced by her cunning plan to delay the suitors by weaving and unraveling a shroud for her father-in-law.

As the story progresses, Penelope's character becomes more complex and nuanced. She begins to show a greater range of emotions, from despair and frustration to hope and longing. She is also shown to be a skilled manipulator, using her wit and charm to outsmart the suitors and keep them at bay.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Penelope's character is her relationship with Odysseus. Despite the fact that they have been separated for many years, she remains deeply devoted to her husband and refuses to believe that he is dead. Her loyalty to Odysseus is one of her defining traits and is the source of her strength and determination.

In addition to her loyalty to her husband, Penelope also displays other admirable traits such as intelligence, wit, and compassion. She is able to see through the false promises of the suitors and is not swayed by their flattery. She also shows compassion towards her son Telemachus, who is struggling to assert himself in a household dominated by the suitors.

However, Penelope is not without her flaws. At times, she is shown to be too trusting and naive, as evidenced by her willingness to believe the false promises of the suitors. She is also portrayed as somewhat cold and distant, as she keeps her true feelings hidden from those around her.

Overall, Penelope in The Odyssey embodies the virtues of loyalty, intelligence, and resourcefulness. Her unwavering devotion to her husband, combined with her cunning and wit, make her a compelling figure in the story. Her struggles and triumphs serve as a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit.

Athena

Athena

Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, is one of the most prominent and complex characters in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey. Throughout the story, she serves as a guide and protector to Odysseus and his family, and plays a pivotal role in shaping the events of the narrative.

One of the defining traits of Athena's character is her intelligence and strategic thinking. She is shown to be a master of disguise and is able to manipulate the actions of mortals to achieve her goals. For example, she disguises herself as Mentes, a family friend of Odysseus, to advise Telemachus and encourage him to assert himself in his own household.

Athena is also shown to be a fierce protector of her favored mortals. She is particularly protective of Odysseus, whom she views as a hero worthy of her admiration and support. Throughout the story, she intervenes on his behalf, guiding him through various trials and battles and ensuring that he emerges victorious.

In addition to her intelligence and protective nature, Athena is also depicted as a patron of the arts and crafts. She is often associated with weaving and spinning, which were traditionally viewed as women's activities. This association reflects her role as a protector of women, particularly those who are skilled in the domestic arts.

However, Athena is not without her flaws. At times, she can be ruthless and unforgiving towards those who cross her. For example, when Poseidon harms Odysseus's crew, Athena encourages Zeus to punish him severely. This demonstrates her willingness to use her powers to exact revenge on those who displease her.

Despite her flaws, Athena in The Odyssey is ultimately portrayed as a powerful and benevolent figure, who uses her intelligence and strategic thinking to guide and protect mortals. Her character serves as a symbol of wisdom and strength, and her interactions with mortals highlight the complex and often tumultuous relationship between gods and humans in Greek mythology.

Calypso

Calypso

Calypso is a complex and enigmatic character in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey. She is a nymph who resides on the island of Ogygia, where she takes Odysseus as her lover and attempts to keep him with her forever.

At first glance, Calypso seems to be a temptress who seeks to lure men into her grasp. She is described as beautiful and alluring, and her island is depicted as a paradise. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Calypso is a much more complex character than she initially appears.

One of the most notable aspects of Calypso's character is her sense of loneliness and isolation. As a nymph, she is immortal and has lived on her island for centuries, cut off from the rest of the world. Her desire for companionship and love is evident in her interactions with Odysseus, whom she views as a potential partner.

Despite her loneliness, Calypso is also shown to be a powerful and independent figure. She is able to control the winds and the seas, and is not afraid to use her powers to protect herself and her island. She also resents the fact that men are able to come and go as they please, while she is trapped on her island.

Calypso's relationship with Odysseus is one of the most complex and interesting aspects of her character. On the one hand, she genuinely seems to care for him and wants him to stay with her. She offers him immortality and promises to make him her equal in power. On the other hand, her attempts to keep him on the island are ultimately selfish and misguided. She fails to understand Odysseus's desire to return home to his wife and family, and her attempts to keep him with her are ultimately doomed to fail.

Despite her flaws, Calypso is ultimately portrayed as a sympathetic character, whose actions are driven by a combination of loneliness, desire, and a longing for companionship. Her interactions with Odysseus highlight the complex relationships between mortals and immortals in Greek mythology, and demonstrate the challenges that arise when two beings from different worlds attempt to forge a connection.

Overall, the character of Calypso in The Odyssey is multifaceted, as her actions are motivated by a complex set of emotions and desires. She is not simply a temptress, but a powerful and independent figure who is driven by a deep sense of loneliness and a desire for companionship. Her interactions with Odysseus serve to highlight the complex and often tumultuous relationships between mortals and immortals in Greek mythology, and her character serves as a reminder of the challenges that arise when two beings from different worlds attempt to forge a connection.

Circe

Circe is a prominent character in Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey. She is a goddess of magic and enchantment and plays a significant role in the journey of Odysseus. Circe is a complex character, portrayed as both a beautiful and dangerous sorceress. Her character can be analyzed from different perspectives.

Firstly, Circe is portrayed as a powerful and confident goddess. She is depicted as a woman who is in control of her life and is not afraid to exercise her power. When Odysseus and his men arrive on her island, she welcomes them and offers them hospitality. However, she also transforms them into pigs, which highlights her ability to use magic to achieve her goals.

Secondly, Circe’s character can also be analyzed in terms of her relationships with men. Throughout the poem, she is seen as a seductive and alluring figure, who uses her charm to manipulate men. When Odysseus arrives on her island, she is immediately attracted to him and tries to seduce him. However, Odysseus is immune to her charms, and instead, he manages to outsmart her and force her to turn his men back into human form.

Thirdly, Circe is also portrayed as a character who is capable of change. After Odysseus overcomes her, she realizes that he is not just an ordinary man and offers him help and guidance. She becomes a mentor to Odysseus, advising him on how to return home and warning him of the dangers he may face. This transformation in her character shows that she is capable of recognizing her mistakes and making amends.

Overall, the character of Circe in The Odyssey is a complex one, embodying both the positive and negative aspects of a powerful goddess. She is portrayed as a woman who is confident in her abilities and uses her power to achieve her goals. Her relationship with men is also significant, as she is seen as a seductive figure who uses her charm to manipulate them. However, her transformation throughout the poem also shows that she is capable of change and growth.

Poseidon

Poseidon is the god of the sea and the primary antagonist in The Odyssey. He is angry at Odysseus for blinding his son, Polyphemus, and repeatedly tries to prevent his safe return home. Poseidon's vengeful nature and desire for retribution demonstrate the flaws of the ancient Greek gods and their arbitrary use of power. Despite his hostility towards Odysseus, Poseidon also embodies the forces of nature and the unpredictable challenges that sailors face.

Zeus

Zeus is the king of the gods and the most powerful deity in Greek mythology. He is often portrayed as a wise and just ruler who values hospitality and piety. In The Odyssey, Zeus is sympathetic to Odysseus and helps him on his journey home. However, he is also a distant and impartial figure, and his interventions are limited by the rules of fate and destiny. The character of Zeus in The Odyssey represents the cosmic order and the limitations of mortal agency in the face of divine will.

Antinous

Antinous in The Odyssey is one of the suitors who has taken over Odysseus's palace in his absence and tries to win the hand of Penelope. He is portrayed as arrogant, selfish, and cruel, and represents the worst aspects of human behavior. Antinous is a symbol of the corrupt and decadent society that Odysseus must confront on his return, and his eventual fate serves as a warning to others who seek to challenge the natural order.

Eurymachus

Eurymachus is another suitor who seeks Penelope's hand and is depicted as more cunning and diplomatic than Antinous. He tries to negotiate with Odysseus and is less openly hostile than his counterpart. However, Eurymachus is also complicit in the suitors' wrongdoing and lacks the courage to stand up to them. He represents the moral ambiguity and political maneuvering that Odysseus must navigate to restore order and justice.

Amphinomus

Amphinomus is the only suitor who shows any compassion towards Odysseus and his family. He warns the others against their reckless behavior and even tries to dissuade them from their plans. However, he is ultimately swept up in their plot and killed along with the rest of the suitors. Amphinomus represents the potential for redemption and the possibility of change in even the most corrupt individuals.

Eumaeus

Eumaeus is a swineherd who shows great hospitality and loyalty to Odysseus, despite not knowing his true identity at first. He is portrayed as humble, hardworking, and kind-hearted, making him a contrast to the selfish and arrogant suitors who have taken over Odysseus' home. Eumaeus is also shown to be a good judge of character, as he immediately sees through the disguised Odysseus' ruse. His loyalty to Odysseus is unwavering, and he even helps him defeat the suitors in the end.

Eurycleia

Eurycleia is a loyal and devoted servant of Odysseus' family. She has served the household for many years and is shown to be a wise and caring figure. Eurycleia plays an important role in recognizing Odysseus when he returns home disguised as a beggar. Despite being an old woman, she is brave and courageous and helps Odysseus and Telemachus in their fight against the suitors. Her loyalty to the family is unwavering, and she is rewarded for her service at the end of the story.

Melanthius

Melanthius is a goatherd who is loyal to the suitors and actively works against Odysseus and his family. He is shown to be cruel, selfish, and deceitful, often taunting and insulting the disguised Odysseus. Melanthius is instrumental in aiding the suitors during the final battle, bringing them weapons and mocking Odysseus. However, his treachery ultimately leads to his downfall, as he is punished by Odysseus for his actions.

Melantho

Melantho is a maid who is loyal to the suitors and behaves cruelly towards Penelope and Telemachus. She is portrayed as vain and selfish, often spending her time flirting with the suitors and belittling the servants. Despite being warned by Eurycleia to stop her behavior, she continues to act disrespectfully towards the royal family. In the end, she is punished for her disloyalty when she is killed by Odysseus during the final battle.

Polyphemus

Polyphemus is a cyclops who is initially hostile towards Odysseus and his men. He is portrayed as a violent and cruel character, devouring some of Odysseus' men and trapping the rest in his cave. Polyphemus' blindness, caused by Odysseus and his men, is a pivotal moment in the story and demonstrates the cunning and intelligence of the hero. However, Polyphemus is also portrayed as a sympathetic character, as he is shown to be deeply affected by his loss of sight and seeks revenge against Odysseus. His character serves as an important reminder of the dangers that Odysseus and his men face on their journey.

Laertes

Laertes is the father of Odysseus and a former king of Ithaca. He is portrayed as an old and wise man who has been mourning the loss of his son for years. Despite his old age, Laertes proves to be a skilled warrior when he joins Odysseus in the battle against the suitors. The character of Laertes in The Odyssey is also a symbol of the importance of familial ties and the love between a father and son, as Odysseus's reunion with him is a poignant moment of the epic.

Tiresias

Tiresias in The Odyssey is a blind prophet whom Odysseus encounters in the underworld. He is the only character in the epic who can foretell the future with accuracy, and he advises Odysseus on how to appease the gods and complete his journey home. Tiresias is also notable for being a symbol of the wisdom and power of the gods, and his encounter with Odysseus emphasizes the importance of the divine in Greek mythology.

Nestor

Nestor is the king of Pylos and a respected elder of the Trojan War. When Telemachus seeks his help in finding information about his father, Nestor welcomes him and offers him hospitality. He is portrayed as a wise and honorable leader, and his advice to Telemachus emphasizes the importance of hospitality, bravery, and respect for the gods. Nestor's character also highlights the importance of generational wisdom and the passing down of knowledge from one generation to the next.

Menelaus

Menelaus is the king of Sparta and the husband of Helen. When Telemachus visits him in search of information about his father, Menelaus welcomes him and offers him hospitality. He is portrayed as a brave warrior and a loyal husband, and his love for Helen is a central part of his character. Menelaus's character also emphasizes the importance of honor and loyalty in ancient Greek society.

Helen

Helen is the wife of Menelaus and the woman who was the cause of the Trojan War. When Telemachus visits her in Sparta, she recognizes him and offers him hospitality. She is portrayed as a beautiful and wise woman who has seen much suffering in her life. Her character emphasizes the importance of female agency and power, as she is able to make her own decisions and live her life on her own terms, despite the actions of men around her. Helen's character also highlights the themes of beauty, temptation, and the dangers of desire in the epic.

Agamemnon

Agamemnon appears in The Odyssey in Book 11 as a shade in the underworld. He is the brother of Menelaus, portrayed as a tragic figure, a hero who was murdered by his wife Clytemnestra and her lover Aegisthus upon his return from the Trojan War. Agamemnon warns Odysseus not to trust women and to be cautious upon his return to Ithaca. His appearance serves as a reminder of the dangers of unfaithful spouses and the tragic consequences of betrayal.

Helios

Helios, the sun god, appears in Book 12 of The Odyssey as the owner of the cattle on the island of Thrinacia. When Odysseus's men disobey his orders and slaughter the cattle, Helios is outraged and demands that Zeus punish them. Helios represents the natural order of the world and the consequences of disobeying it. His wrath serves as a warning to those who seek to challenge the gods and upset the balance of the world.

Eurylochus

Eurylochus is one of Odysseus's crew members in The Odyssey. He plays a prominent role in Book 10, where he convinces the crew to disobey Odysseus's orders and land on the island of Aeaea, home of the sorceress Circe. Eurylochus represents the danger of disobedience and the tendency of humans to act out of self-interest rather than following their leader. His actions ultimately lead to the transformation of half of the crew into pigs by Circe.