Odysseus has such contrasting and exasperating characteristics that make him a very intriguing character. He is reported as a godlike, ridiculously strong warrior-king, yet he is also cunning, crafty, and sometimes deceptive. I was angered when he taunted the cyclops and when he puts his crew at risk like we discussed in class Thursday. Then in his compassionate, emotional reunion with his wife, father, and son, he seems like a relatable person. It is obvious he is well loved by all his people. His herdsmen and servants, men and women alike all weep for him and remember what a good master he was. Is it just that his masculine tendencies sometimes overpower his other qualities? Or is he a double-sided character? I think the first time I see complete selfless compassion in Odysseus is book 24, line 357, "a black cloud of grief came shrouding over Laertes...Odysseus' heart shuddered, a sudden twinge went shooting up through his nostrils, watching his dear father struggle". I see him as a Tony Stark of sorts...playboy, legend, genius, yet not completely heartless.
ps. I commented on Sydni's post.
I know what you mean! Odysseus is such a jam-packs character. It's almost as though different people threw in their ideas of a perfect man/warrior, and then combined them all in one man. There are times, when I really like him, and there are other times when I completely loathe him.
ReplyDelete