In the Oddyssey, was Odysseus' action of telling the Polyphemus that his name is "Nohbdy" or was him allowing Circe to persuade him to stay with her the most characteristic of an epic hero?
I'm stuck between both options
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Read lots and let us know what you decide.
I've read everything I could, I still can't decide. While the first option is intelligent, the second option is brave. I'm at a crossroad.
To determine which action is more characteristic of an epic hero in "The Odyssey," we can analyze both situations and consider the qualities and behaviors typically associated with epic heroes.
1. Odysseus telling Polyphemus that his name is "Nohbdy":
In this episode, Odysseus and his men are trapped in Polyphemus' cave. Odysseus devises a plan to blind the Cyclops and escape by telling him his name is "Nohbdy." When Polyphemus screams for help, the other Cyclopes assume that "Nohbdy" is causing him no harm. This cunning deception allows Odysseus and his men to escape.
- Explanation on how this action exhibits traits of an epic hero:
1. Intelligence and resourcefulness: Odysseus uses his wit and quick thinking to come up with a plan to outsmart Polyphemus.
2. Leadership and strategic thinking: He demonstrates his ability to lead by organizing his men and devising a plan that ensures their escape.
3. Courage and bravery: Odysseus risks his life by staying in the Cyclops' cave and engaging in a dangerous encounter with a powerful creature.
2. Odysseus allowing Circe to persuade him to stay with her:
Circe, a beautiful sorceress, offers Odysseus immortality and eternal youth if he stays with her. His men, however, remind him of their ultimate goal: to return home to Ithaca.
- Explanation on how this action exhibits traits of an epic hero:
1. Loyalty and devotion: Despite the allure of immortality and eternal youth, Odysseus remains loyal to his goals and the well-being of his men by resisting Circe's offer.
2. Determination and perseverance: Odysseus remains focused on his ultimate mission, which is to return home to his kingdom and family.
3. Self-control and discipline: By resisting the temptation to stay with Circe, Odysseus demonstrates self-control and discipline in making decisions that align with his long-term objectives.
Both actions demonstrate different aspects of an epic hero, but Odysseus' action of telling Polyphemus that his name is "Nohbdy" is more often regarded as a characteristic of an epic hero. This action showcases his intelligence, quick thinking, leadership, and courage. However, the decision to resist Circe's persuasion also demonstrates important qualities such as loyalty, determination, and self-control. Ultimately, both can be seen as heroic actions, but the cunning and resourcefulness displayed in outsmarting the Cyclops tend to be more synonymous with the archetype of an epic hero.