Question

Identify What universal themes does Homer explore in the Odyssey? Choose two events from either Part One or Part Two, and explain how Homer conveys theme, or central message, in each.

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

As you may already know, "Odyssey" is an epic story written, probably, by Homer. The story takes place in Greece, during the Trojan War and we learn about the achievements and adventures of the hero Odysseus and his attempts to return home.

In part I of this story, we are introduced to topics such as cunning and fidelity. Cunning is presented through Odisseuy's deeds, which is the main characteristic of this hero. Cunning is presented at all times in the work, pointing Odysseus as someone who is courageous, daring and intelligent. Fidelity, on the other hand, is presented through Odysseus' remorse for not being faithful to his wife during many moments in his adventures.

Part II of this work presents other themes such as character flaws and hospitality. The character flaw is also a great feature of Odysseus and shows how imperfect the hero is, in addition to humanizing him and allowing readers to identify with him. The hospitality is due to Odisseu's wife, who needs to receive in her home many suitors who bother her and destroy her family's patrimony.