How was the odyseuss a smart leadr in parts 1-3
In parts 1-3 of the Odyssey, Odysseus demonstrates his intelligence and leadership skills in various ways:
1. Outsmarting Polyphemus: When Odysseus and his men are trapped in the cave of the Cyclops Polyphemus, he devises a plan to blind the Cyclops and escape. He tells Polyphemus that his name is "Nobody," allowing him to trick him later. When the Cyclops is blinded, Odysseus cleverly hides his men under the sheep, enabling them to escape the cave undetected.
2. Planning the escape from Circe's island: After being transformed into pigs by the sorceress Circe, Odysseus manages to retain his human form by using the herb moly, given to him by the god Hermes. With his intelligence, he successfully convinces Circe to release his men and allow them to leave the island unharmed.
3. Surviving the Sirens and Scylla and Charybdis: Odysseus is warned about the deadly Sirens and the treacherous whirlpool Charybdis, as well as the monster Scylla. With his leadership skills, he advises his crew to plug their ears with beeswax to resist the enchanting song of the Sirens, and he orders them to steer closer to Scylla rather than Charybdis, minimizing their losses.
4. Devising the Trojan Horse: Although not covered in parts 1-3 of the Odyssey, it is worth mentioning that Odysseus was the mastermind behind the creation of the Trojan Horse, a stratagem that allowed the Greeks to finally win the Trojan War. This showcases his cunning and strategic thinking.
Overall, Odysseus proves himself to be a smart leader by consistently using his intelligence and quick thinking to overcome obstacles and ensure the survival of his crew.