Challenges Odysseus example essay topic
350 words
In the epic poem The Odyssey the central character, Odysseus is portrayed as a strong, powerful leader. Odysseus' life has been filled with constant conflicts and challenges. Odysseus finally ended the war, using his cunning tactics; Odysseus's near attack on the Trojans was incredible. Odysseus was a great leader; a courageous and skillful leader during the war, his leadership skills have helped him be victorious in all he does. The challenges Odysseus had to face, the Cyclopes, Calypso, the terrible storms, the wrath of Poseidon, and the worst of all the gluttonous suitors that have taken over him home and court his wife. Odysseus' ability to evaluate situation, and use cunning logic helped Odysseus make it home. Odysseus may not always been honest; he lies to his troops, and he does not trust anyone but himself to do things right. Odysseus' curiosity leads his troops into danger to satisfy his curiosity. Odysseus always makes sure to protect himself, even at the cost of his men, who are loyal to him. The best summation I can give of Odysseus' character is that he is an ambitious and determined leader. In comparison the character Agamemnon in the epic poem Iphigeneia at Aulis does not match up to the powerful Odysseus. Agamemnon did not have the skills to lead men into victorious battles.
From the beginning Agamemnon states that he does not envy men of authority, honors as sweet as they taste fill life with pain. His comment is in reference to the sacrifice he must make. Agamemnon's beliefs differ from the beliefs of the men he leads. His desire to be a general is great but at the same time Agamemnon is not as determined to honor the oath he and the rest of the suitor of Helen made many years age. Fables, Robert; Know, Bernard.
The Odyssey. Homer, Penguin Books, New York, New York, 1996. Merwin, W.S., Di mock, George. Iphigeneia at Aulis.
Euripides, Oxford University Press, New York 1978.
