Odysseus

Odysseus is the clever and resourceful king of Ithaca who, after the fall of Troy, finds himself on the shores of Etna in Sicily, the land of the Cyclops. As the story unfolds, Odysseus, a noble hero often ensnared by his own hubris, attempts to secure provisions for his crew but is captured by Polyphemus, the Cyclops. His ingenuity shines through as he devises an elaborate plan involving wine to blind the giant and escape captivity. Despite his valor and tactical brilliance, Euripides paints Odysseus in a more complex light than Homer’s original portrayal. This Odysseus, bearing the lineage of Sisyphus, the notorious sinner and trickster of Corinth, embodies a blend of civilized brutality and sophistry. His plea for mercy is cunningly crafted, yet his actions—blinding the drunken and surprisingly buffoonish Polyphemus—contrast sharply with the sympathy evoked earlier when he appeared weak and oppressed. Notably, Odysseus’s actions and character explore the themes of justice and compassion, as he also champions better lives for the satyrs. Ultimately, Polyphemus's prophecy that Odysseus will face prolonged wanderings before reaching home foreshadows his continuing struggle and journey.

Polyphemus

Polyphemus, the Cyclops and son of Poseidon, is a formidable and terrifying presence in the play, embodying raw egoism and the brutal application of might over morality. Characterized as a "man-eater," he holds Odysseus and his men in captivity, showing no regard for divine beings or human decency. Engaging in a philosophical exchange with Odysseus, he scorns the idea of mercy as a construct of the weak, valuing only his desires and appetite. His gruesome consumption of Odysseus's crew members underscores his savage nature. However, under the influence of wine provided by Odysseus, Polyphemus transforms into a comedic figure, a decadent buffoon who, despite his abhorrence of war, attempts to indulge in violence against Silenus. This shift in demeanor serves to justify Odysseus's vengeance. After being blinded by Odysseus, his repeated insistence that "Nobody" has harmed him becomes a point of humor, yet as Odysseus departs, Polyphemus’s ominous prophecy regarding Odysseus's fate adds a somber note to the narrative.

Silenus

Silenus, progeny of Bacchus, the god of wine, is an emblem of satyric conventions, embodying lewdness and a penchant for revelry. Shipwrecked on Etna while in pursuit of Dionysus, Silenus is enslaved by Polyphemus and serves as the "father" to the satyr chorus. He epitomizes cowardice and self-indulgence, engaging in deceit to safeguard his interests. Offering Odysseus food in exchange for wine, he revels in intoxication, yet betrays Odysseus by falsely accusing him of theft when faced with Polyphemus’s ire. His drunken antics persist as he partakes in the plot to intoxicate the Cyclops, ultimately resulting in his comedic mock marriage to Polyphemus. Despite his deceit and cowardice, Silenus contributes to the story's humor and satirical edge.

The Satyr Chorus

The Chorus of Satyrs, led by Coryphaeus, serves as the traditional comic element in satyr plays. These "horse-men" are marked by their bawdy demeanor and penchant for merriment, embodying the spirit of Bacchic worship. While they initially pledge to assist Odysseus in executing his plan against Polyphemus, their inherent cowardice prevails, and they retreat from action, humorously claiming physical ailments as their excuse. Their role as the chorus allows them to engage directly with characters like Silenus and Odysseus, adding an interactive layer to the play. The satyrs' primary interest lies in returning to their Dionysian festivities, making them both a source of amusement and a commentary on the frivolity of excessive indulgence.

Coryphaeus

Coryphaeus, the leader of the Chorus of Satyrs, orchestrates the chorus's antics and interactions with the main characters, reinforcing the play's satirical and comedic elements through his leadership.

The Companions of Odysseus

Odysseus's companions, loyal members of his crew, remain silent throughout the play. Despite their voicelessness, they play a crucial role in aiding Odysseus in executing his plan to blind Polyphemus, showcasing their unwavering loyalty and support for their captain.