The Odyssey

In order to truly appreciate that pressing themes and lessons presents in Homer’s “The Odyssey”, one must consider the great Greek poet’s other epic, “The Iliad”. In particular, an analysis between the concluding battle scene at the end of “The Odyssey” compared to the themes and values presented throughout “The Iliad” is essential in developing a full comprehension of the text. Not only does Odysseus’s memorable battle with the suitors reignite images of “The Iliad”, as seen in the role rage and emotion plays in both instances, but also acts as a means of contrast between core values, presented between fighting for honor versus fighting for survival as well as the power of a warriors strength versus the power of a warriors cunningness. Whether comparing or contrasting ideologies, a greater illumination and understanding of “The Odyssey” is achieved.

In order to develop a platform upon which we can compare Odysseus’s battle with the suitors and the values of “The Iliad”, it is necessary to first revisit the overarching themes presented in the latter poem. One major theme that became a focal point of “The Iliad” was the role that human emotion, and in particular rage, played in the motivations of our heroes. The most memorable representation of an act of rage possessing a character and leading him to extreme lengths occurs after Achilles defeats Hector in a bloody battle. After Hector attempts a futile request that his body be returned to his kingdom, Achilles gravely replies,

“Beg no more, you fawning dog-begging me by my parents! Would to god my rage, my fury would drive me now to back your flesh away and eat you raw-such agonies you have cause me,” (Homer Book 22 Line 407).

Achilles’ rage, as we know, finds it’s roots and direction towards Hector for his role in the slaying of Patroclus. “The swift footed” soon allows his rage to posses him, evident in his treatment of Hectors body, where he drags his opponents body around the gates of the Trojan kingdom...