Write an essay explaining how epics reveal a civiliazation’s customs, manners, and values. Support your ideas with atleast 3 references from The Odyssey.
An epic like The Odyssey can reveal a civilization’s customs, manners, and values in many ways. Firstly, how the characters behave can have a great impact on the understanding of the culture of the person. For example, Odysseus was gone to war for 10 years, and the next 10 years of his life, he spent on trying to get home even though he was tempted by Calypso to stay with her. This shows that even after 20 years of all he’s been through, he still cares about his wife and family. This way the epic explains that family had a great value for the people in that time. Likewise, Penelope, Odysseus’s wife, never gave in to the suitors who wanted to marry her. After all that time, she still waited for Odysseus to get back.
In those times, it was mandatory to treat a guest with a lot of respect; those were the manners that were taught to everyone. When Odysseus is found by the daughter of Alcinous, washed up on the beach, he is brought to their house and seated in the place of honor at the banquet. There he describes his story to the people.
The gods also had great importance to the people in those days. They are mentioned in epics many times and they affect the actions by advising people what to do. For example, most of Odysseus’s choices were given to him by Athena, the goddess of wisdom.
Is this all right? Also, I can't think of a conclusion to write.
Thanks
-MC
Yes, I think you have answered well. You might extend your explanation of the importance of the Gods.
You might write your conclusion about how these values are the same today.
Got it. Thanks Guru (:
-MC
It was very well written, I hope you got a good grade.
Your response provides a good explanation of how epics like The Odyssey reveal a civilization's customs, manners, and values. You have supported your ideas with references from the text, which is great.
To conclude your essay, you can briefly summarize the main points you discussed in your body paragraphs. For example, you can highlight how the behaviors of characters such as Odysseus and Penelope demonstrate the value placed on family and loyalty in ancient Greek civilization. You can also mention the significance of hospitality and the respect shown to guests, as seen in Odysseus's treatment at the house of Alcinous. Lastly, emphasize the importance of gods and their influence on human actions and decisions, as illustrated by Athena's guidance to Odysseus.
Overall, The Odyssey provides a rich insight into the customs, manners, and values of ancient Greek civilization, presenting a world where familial bonds, hospitality, and the role of the gods played a significant role in shaping individuals and society.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.