Discuss Odysseus As An Ideal Of Manly Conduct And Resourcefu ✓ Solved

Discuss Odysseus as an ideal of manly conduct and resourcefulness

Be sure to write specifically and coherently. All generalizations should be supported by examples. Discuss Odysseus as an ideal of manly conduct and resourcefulness in ancient Greek society. Naturally you should concentrate on the The Odyssey, but the Iliad may also be relevant. What traits does Odysseus embody, and why are these especially valued by the Greeks? Towards what individuals or groups does he show the greatest affinity? What individuals or groups stand at the farthest remove from Odysseus and his system of values? What temptations does he overcome in his journeying, and what kinds of knowledge and understanding does he derive from it? It’s possible for an Odysseus to exist today, except as a limited, he-man parody? In this context you may want to compare him to contemporary cinematic action heroes, such as James Bond, or the characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood, Sylvester Stallone, and Tom Cruise. Can the adjective polumetis, which Homer applies to Odysseus, be applied to these characters as well?

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The character of Odysseus from Homer's epics, particularly The Odyssey, epitomizes the ideals of manly conduct and resourcefulness celebrated in ancient Greek society. He embodies a unique blend of traits including intelligence, bravery, loyalty, and an exceptional capacity for self-restraint. These qualities were highly valued by the Greeks as they reflect broader societal values of heroism, wisdom, and the importance of cunning over brute strength.

Odysseus’ defining trait is his intelligence, often referred to in Greek as "polumetis," which translates to "much-minded" or "of many wiles." This insight is characteristically illustrated in his encounters with formidable foes and challenges throughout his journey. For instance, Odysseus outsmarts the Cyclops Polyphemus by introducing himself as "Nobody," thereby enabling his escape when Polyphemus is blinded (Homer, The Odyssey, Book 9). This not only showcases his cleverness but also highlights a significant aspect of Greek values: the importance of knowledge and strategic thinking over sheer might.

Moreover, Odysseus also exhibits bravery and resolves under pressure. His tenacity in the Trojan War, where he led the Greeks in battle, and his continuous fight for home and family throughout his journey back to Ithaca reflect the intrinsic Greek virtue of courage. Homer illustrates his determination, particularly in the face of numerous temptations, such as the Sirens, whose songs lure sailors to their demise. Odysseus demonstrates remarkable self-control by having his crew bind him to the mast of the ship so he can hear their song without succumbing to its fatal allure (Homer, The Odyssey, Book 12). This ability to prioritize duty and reason over personal desire underscores a leader’s responsibility, a value cherished in Greek society.

In terms of relationships, Odysseus shows great affinity towards his family, particularly his wife Penelope and son Telemachus. His unwavering loyalty to Penelope, despite the temptations presented to him during his wanderings, signifies profound respect for marital fidelity and societal norms regarding familial bonds (Homer, The Odyssey, Book 23). Conversely, those who oppose Odysseus or disregard such values—like the suitors attempting to marry Penelope—are portrayed as morally corrupt and undesirable, representing traits that are at odds with the virtues Odysseus embodies.

Odysseus’ journey is also a transformative one, filled with tests that lead to personal growth and deeper understanding. Each challenge he confronts teaches him valuable lessons about human nature, leadership, and humility. For instance, his experiences with Circe and Calypso reveal the dangers of temptation and the importance of fidelity. Furthermore, he learns to value wisdom over aggression through his interactions with various beings, such as the Phaeacians, who celebrate intellect and diplomacy instead of martial prowess (Homer, The Odyssey, Book 13).

The concept of a modern-day Odysseus raises interesting questions. Contemporary cinematic action heroes, such as James Bond or characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Sylvester Stallone, present variants of the archetypal hero. While they share traits like bravery and resourcefulness, they often lack the depth of character—and moral quandaries—that define Odysseus. For instance, James Bond relies heavily on physical prowess, gadgets, and charm, often depicting a more superficial heroism compared to Odysseus' complex journey marked by introspection and ethical dilemmas. Similarly, figures portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Tom Cruise often embody a rugged individualism that skews towards physicality rather than the mental acuity that defines Odysseus.

The application of the term "polumetis" to these modern heroes becomes contentious. While characters like Bond demonstrate cunning in their exploits, they often fall short of the depth of Odysseus' intelligence, which integrates empathy, moral choices, and growth into their narratives. For example, Bond's issues, while they may seem complex, do not typically engage with the moral introspection represented in Odysseus’ journey. Thus, while the descriptor "polumetis" suggests adaptability and cleverness, it may not wholly encompass the character of contemporary action heroes, who, unlike Odysseus, may prioritize spectacle over substance.

In summary, Odysseus stands as a celebrated model of manly conduct and resourcefulness that transcends his ancient context. His traits of intelligence, bravery, loyalty, and self-restraint not only defined him as a hero in Greek culture but also rendered him an enduring figure applicable to discussions of heroism today. Although some aspects of his character can be seen in modern cinematic heroes, the depth and complexity of Odysseus’ moral journey and values highlight the significant distinctions between his archetype and contemporary representations of masculinity.

References

• Homer. (1996). The Odyssey (Robert Fagles, Trans.). Penguin Classics.
• Homer. (1990). The Iliad (Robert Fagles, Trans.). Penguin Classics.
• Hemingway, E. (1950). The Old Man and the Sea. Charles Scribner's Sons.
• Gilgamesh. (2003). The Epic of Gilgamesh (Andrew George, Trans.). Penguin Classics.
• Baker, C. (2017). Greek heroism in the modern age. Journal of Ancient History, 8(2), 204-224.
• Cartledge, P. (2009). Ancient Greece: A History in Eleven Cities. Pan Macmillan.
• Frye, N. (2000). The Educated Imagination. University of Toronto Press.
• Hall, J. (2014). A History of the Classical Greek World. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Harris, W. V. (2015). Ancient Greece: From Prehistoric to Hellenistic Times. Yale University Press.
• Kaldera, K. (2020). The figures of female desire in The Odyssey. Classical Philology, 115(2), 192-205.