The Odyssey Group

Question:

kalvin
kalvin
Student
College - Sophomore

If there is an obvious theme in the Odyssey, what is it?

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Posted by kalvin on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 8:32 AM and tagged with the odyssey, themes.

Answers:


  1. bmadnick Teacher
    High School - 11th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    The most obvious theme is heroism and the epic journey of the hero. Odysseus shows us the qualities a hero needs off the battlefield. Homer broadens the definition of a hero by having Odysseus face new difficulties in his struggle to get home. On his journey, he meets up with a sorceress, a Cyclops, and Scylla and Charybdis, unusual enemies for a soldier. In overcoming these difficulties, Odysseus must use his intellect as well as his physical strength.
    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/odyssey/themes

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    Posted by bmadnick on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 12:26 PM


  2. kriskress Teacher
    High School - 10th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    I would say the most prevalent theme in The Odyssey is the relationship between father and son and the inevitable maturation/development of both. Seeing the two men from Book 1 to 24 proves major changes and significant character development. Telemachus goes from boy to man, from very timid and shy to ready to rule the country while Odysseus himself goes from rash and arrogant to calculated and humble. Together, their relationship develops from estranged family to unstoppable team.

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    Posted by kriskress on Wednesday October 31, 2007 at 4:18 PM