Who is Odysseus

Who is Odysseus, the protagonist of the Homeric Epic, The Odyssey? From the Illiad, Odysseus is known as the brave and cunning soldier who helped topple the Trojan empire. Yet, in the Odyssey, Odysseus is shown to be a more vulnerable, and thus, more reliable character. Through two specific relationships with women in The Odyssey, light is shed on the character of the hero. It is the Queen of Aeaea, Circe who reveals Odysseus’ sexual …

…need of help. Nothing of a hulky and seductive hero is suggested. Instead, the true nature of Odysseus is bared. He is a man humbled by his own nudity. Yet, he is also wise in that he chooses his actions carefully and listens to advice even though it is derived from a female. Odysseus is a man worthy of trust because he respects those who respect him and because he is tactful in avoiding scandal.