What is an epic hero? What makes them so “epic” in the first place? This is a question that many find themselves asking themselves before they read through Odysseus’ journey. Epic heroes can be defined in many different ways, but they all mention the challenges they go through, the fame that they achieve, and the abilities that they have. Throughout Homer’s “The Odyssey,” the concept of the epic hero’s journey and the evolution of Odysseus’ character traits as an epic hero are referenced subtly, yet provocatively. Odysseus develops as an epic hero by showing flaws and ultimately overcoming those flaws, being tested by secondary characters, and achieving fame. To set things straight, epic heroes aren’t perfect. Odysseus especially shows himself as selfish, cocky, and boastful in his worst moments.
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Firstly, Odysseus could have completely avoided meeting Polyphemus at all, however, through his curiosity and selfishness, he and his men found themselves inside the cave of the Cyclops, searching for hospitality they didn’t necessarily need. On top of this, after Odysseus had already blinded Polyphemus and could have safely left the island, he made his second mistake. “‘Kyklops, if ever mortal man inquire how you were put to shame and blinded, tell him Odysseus, raider of cities, took your eye: Laertes’ son, whose home’s on Ithaka!’” (Book 9, lines 548-552). Odysseus had no need to do this, but his boastfulness took control. As a result of this, Polyphemus had Odysseus cursed by his father Poseidon. With all this being said, Odysseus grows as an epic hero as the story goes on, and partially redeems some of his bad
Firstly, Odysseus could have completely avoided meeting Polyphemus at all, however, through his curiosity and selfishness, he and his men found themselves inside the cave of the Cyclops, searching for hospitality they didn’t necessarily need. On top of this, after Odysseus had already blinded Polyphemus and could have safely left the island, he made his second mistake. “‘Kyklops, if ever mortal man inquire how you were put to shame and blinded, tell him Odysseus, raider of cities, took your eye: Laertes’ son, whose home’s on Ithaka!’” (Book 9, lines 548-552). Odysseus had no need to do this, but his boastfulness took control. As a result of this, Polyphemus had Odysseus cursed by his father Poseidon. With all this being said, Odysseus grows as an epic hero as the story goes on, and partially redeems some of his bad