Odysseus And Neoptolemus Character Analysis

When examining the text of Sophocles’ Philoctetes, it demonstrates the conflict of individuals and society during the Greek period. The relationship between the individual and their society is a topic of constant interest not only to philosophers and religious thinkers, but for each of us. Every person has plans, hopes, expectations, and needs. Their society has its own, in the form of laws, traditions, and needs for the greater good. Not to mention, often times the needs and demands of the individual come in conflict with those of society. With this being said, it raises problems for both the individual and society. There are 3 characters, Odysseus, Neoptolemus, and Philoctetes. Each of these characters show examples of these problems. Odysseus was one of the great heroes of Greek mythology. However, in the text of Sophocles’ …show more content…
Philoctetes says “Never-I would rather suffer anything than this (line 999). Philoctetes here is demonstrating his selfishness and is constantly choosing to play the victim. Yes, Philoctetes was bitten and is in pain but he doesn’t have to let society win and get the best of him. The only way Philoctetes can go back into society is if he chooses to go to Troy and help the Greeks win. Philoctetes goes from societal death to life by going to Troy. All these characters are dealing with an internal conflict against themselves and an external conflict against society. All of them are battling with their wants and the needs of the society they live. Odysseus is trying to defend his country but being a very deceitful person in order to accomplish it. Neoptolemus is following is duty but is struggling with being a moral upright man not just for his society but for his reputation. Philoctetes is just trying to get home and could care less about society. In the end, all these characters are more worried about the needs of