Compare and/or contrast the role of the father-son relationship in The Odyssey to the relationship of Abraham and Isaac in the Old Testament. How does each relationship influence the action and theme(s) of each work?

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http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/comparison.htm

Odyssey:
http://classics.mit.edu/Homer/odyssey.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odyssey
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/odyssey/

Abraham and Isaac:
http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/HEBREWS/GENABRAH.HTM
http://www.usbible.com/Sacrifice/AbrahamIsaac.htm
http://www.jewfaq.org/origins.htm

You'll probably find more contrast than comparison.

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To compare and contrast the role of the father-son relationship in The Odyssey and the relationship of Abraham and Isaac in the Old Testament, you will need to analyze each relationship separately and then consider their influence on the action and themes of each work.

To begin, let's examine the father-son relationship in The Odyssey. In this epic poem by Homer, the central father-son relationship is between Odysseus and his son Telemachus. Throughout the story, Odysseus is portrayed as an absent father due to his long absence during the Trojan War and subsequent journey back home. Meanwhile, Telemachus is left to fend for himself and grow into a man without his father's guidance. When Odysseus returns disguised as a beggar, he tests Telemachus' loyalty and maturity, and their eventual reunion brings about a sense of closure and completeness.

On the other hand, the relationship between Abraham and Isaac in the Old Testament is quite different. Abraham is depicted as a devoted and obedient follower of God. In a moment of great faith and trust, God commands Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, as a test of his loyalty. This event, known as the Binding of Isaac or the Akedah, showcases Abraham's unwavering devotion to God, as well as his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice. However, at the last moment, an angel intervenes and provides a ram for the sacrifice instead, sparing Isaac's life.

In terms of the influence on the action and themes of each work, both relationships shape the central narrative and explore significant themes.

In The Odyssey, the father-son relationship between Odysseus and Telemachus contributes to the overall theme of family and loyalty. Telemachus' growth and development throughout the story, from a vulnerable and uncertain young man to a strong and confident leader, highlight the influence of his father's absence. It underscores the importance of a father's presence and guidance in a son's life.

Similarly, in the story of Abraham and Isaac, the relationship revolves around themes such as faith, obedience, and sacrifice. The ultimate test of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son serves as a profound exploration of his faith and trust in God. It challenges the reader to contemplate the ethical and moral implications of such a demanding request from God.

In summary, while both The Odyssey and the story of Abraham and Isaac explore the father-son relationship, they differ in terms of the presence or absence of the father, the nature of their interactions, and the resulting themes. The Odyssey emphasizes the absence and influence of a father on a son's growth, whereas the story of Abraham and Isaac focuses on the themes of faith, obedience, and sacrifice.