Role of Disguise in The Odyssey

The role of disguise in The Odyssey serves a practical role for both Athene and Odysseus who take on a disguise more than once. It tends to be the preferred way to encounter people, and gather information. This practice should not be dismissed as mere function of practicality. Its reoccurrence throughout the epic be an indication that Homer was trying to communicate a particular significance and insight into peoples’ true nature based on their reactions …

…does not actually conceal the truth, and mislead others from doing so. Instead, it fulfills the truth based on unbiased reactions from those under the pretense however false this pretense might be. The discipline of the skill mastered by Odysseus proves how cunning he is, and proves to be far greater than any strength he possesses. The prudence and humility regarding ones identity is central to the message of The Odyssey and heroism in general.