Serious Problems In The Book Of Odysseus Essay Example

us - a barbarian, completely lacking in social etiquette." His comrades wish to pillage and depart before the inhabitant returns. This wish contradicts their actions in Ismarus when Odysseus advised them to swiftly depart Ismarus with their spoils.

Furthermore, Odysseus demonstrates his arrogance by disregarding his men's advice to take the plunder and leave, instead choosing to stay and test the hospitality of the caveman upon his return home. This decision proves to be a costly mistake as all the evidence in the cave indicates the presence of a savage and uncivil being. Nevertheless, Odysseus, in his arrogance, still waits for the caveman's return. These instances can be used by a reader to support the theory that it is wiser to "quit while you're ahead," starting from line 273 when the Kyklops spots Odysseus and his men.

The Cyclops, a one-eyed giant, initially expresses curiosity about the strangers' identity and origin (line 274). Upon being asked, Odysseus provides detailed information about their background except for the end where he arrogantly dictates proper behavior according to Zeus. In response, Polyphemus, the Cyclops, insults Odysseus by labeling him a "ninny," displaying arrogance and disrespect due to Odysseus' brave and heroic feats in the Trojan War.

Polyphemus exhibits two aspects of his personality, brute strength and a disregard for the Gods, by insulting Odysseus and dismissing his mention of the "care of the Gods courtesy" statement. In lines 307-311, Odysseus informs Polyphemus that Poseidon had destroyed their ship but spared them. These lines convey two important points: Odysseus' reverence for the powers of Poseidon and a cautionary message to the one-eyed giant that these men were spared by Poseidon, thus deserving

mercy from the Kyklops.

The text highlights the significance of foreshadowing the fate of Odysseus' ships and crew, as well as singling out Odysseus himself. In lines 465 to 475, Odysseus explains how he tied sheep together in groups of three and hung a man under each to escape the next morning when Polyphemus releases his flock for grazing. It is emphasized that Odysseus chose the woolliest ram for himself to escape under. This choice is not driven by arrogance but rather to display his leadership and nobility. When Polyphemus lets his flock out in the morning, Odysseus and his ram are the last to free themselves from captivity. This symbolizes Odysseus' prioritization of his men's well-being over his own, demonstrating his qualities as a great leader and hero.

After escaping from Polyphemus' cave, Odysseus succumbs to his arrogance and taunts the one-eyed giant. In response, the Kyklops hurls a hilltop at Odysseus' departing ship, nearly grounding it. Despite his men's pleas to stop provoking the monster, Odysseus cannot resist his arrogance and reveals his true name and identity to Polyphemus. However, he discloses his identity not out of arrogance, but rather following the customs of that era.

Odysseus' lack of wisdom and arrogance angers Poseidon, who seeks revenge for his son Polyphemus. This part of Odysseus' journey teaches him the importance of humility and the consequences of arrogance. In every instance where Odysseus, his men, or Polyphemus exhibit arrogance, there is a price to pay. For Odysseus, his arrogance results in losing all his men and ships. However, he carries this lesson with him and learns from it. When Odysseus shows humility, he achieves better outcomes compared

to when he lets his arrogance prevail.

The moral of the Odyssey is that a person's arrogance can be their downfall. This lesson allows the main character to defeat the disrespectful suitors and regain control of his kingdom and property.