The Odyssey Group

Question:

amberlynn15
amberlynn15
Student
High School - 9th Grade

Based on Part 1 of The Odyssey, write a brief essay describing the character traits most valued in ancient Greece.

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Posted by amberlynn15 on Monday October 19, 2009 at 4:12 PM and tagged with character, character traits, characterization, essay, greece, the odyssey.

Answers:


  1. mstultz72 Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    We don't write essays for students, but we can answer specific questions.

    To the Greeks, the "guest-host" relationship was sacred.  Just as King Alcinous must give Odysseus shelter, food, and clothing before he can even ask his identity, the Greeks practiced hopitality to weary travelers. 

    The Greeks believed also in "arete," or excellence in all things, whether it be academics, weaving, or wine-making.  Examples can be seen in the Odyssey: the feats of strength among the suitors, Odysseus' contests with the Phaecians, and Telemachus' desire to string his father's bow. 

    In the Odyssey, Odysseus must balance his excessive pride, "hubris," with the requisite humility and homage to the gods.  This balance is known as "syphrosine," a kind of restraint.  One must exhibit excellence in all things, "arete," without displaying arrogance in the process.  The Greeks believed in the following the "epos megan," the golden mean--a kind of middle course.  One may drink, but not too much.  Moderation in all things.  Odysseus learns after visiting Hades, the land of the dead.    

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    Posted by mstultz72 on Tuesday October 20, 2009 at 6:11 AM