Homer's The Odyssey: What Makes A Hero

What makes a hero? Is it the way they take down monsters you only see in your nightmares, or the way they deal with their everyday conflicts. Despite your definition of what makes a hero they will always have their problems. That's what keeps the reader interested is the main character's strengths, weaknesses, and conflicts.

The Greek mythology hero Odysseus from Homer’s The Odyssey has many strengths up his sleeve. He fought fearlessly in the Trojan war and had impeccable military strategies that he used to win. “Thus, with distinct precaution, I prepare/ My people.” Most of the Gods only trusted Odysseus with valuable information, such as how to get past the bloodlusting sirens that sing to the men who pass. “Me only permits those …show more content…
Expect when he put their lives in danger just to hear the lustful song of the sirens, because it make a slight damper in someone's respect. Circe says “If you must be tempted” indicting he has the option to listen, which he took fairly quickly. He is vulnerable with the temptation of other women, since he has been away from his wife for an unbearable stretch of time. “Bind me with the coercion strong, well-secured to the mast-foot.” He made this crew bind him up so he could listen to the sweet siren song endangering everyone. Because he has many weaknesses, that fuels the many conflicts he faces (Homer).

His temptations are fueled from him leaving his family the many years that he did. Odysseus was “beguiled by Circe” and had to figure out a way to get his men back into their right mind, and get off of the island to journey forward. Once they got off, he had to decipher a way to get past the sirens while listening to their song, and saving his men at the same time. He wasn't doing much saving from being tied down so he could hear the song and resist killing himself. Despite his problems and weaknesses he is still known as a great hero