Everyone Can Love

Odysseus’ story brings to light many new concepts and elaborates on old concepts. As he tells the tale of his journeys, he expels wisdom and insight into Greek values. In Book 9 the reader is subject to two mythical (almost magical) creatures, the Lotus-eaters and the Cyclops. The hindrance that these creatures/people provide also reminds the listener of important ideals. Although Odysseus continually defeats these mythical obstacles, combat with each creature teaches a lesson. These creatures, even though they are the “bad guys” of our story, are not portrayed as totally evil. Every character in the Odyssey has a certain inherent goodness. The first display of virtue in Book 9 is after the Cicones fought the Greeks, killing six men from each ship. Odysseus explains that he delays their departure in order to honor the fallen men, “I would not let our rolling ships set sail until the crews had raised the triple cry, saluting each poor comrade” (9.73-9.74). As Odysseus continues to tell his story, he describes the monstrous, ruthless, Polyphemus. However, Odysseus mentions one detail that proves Polyphemus has some tenderness and kindness within. Polyphemus’ intense care for his sheep and rams can be interpreted as love for his only companions. Odysseus notices that Polyphemus is “Stroking [the ram] gently” (9.498). Polyphemus may be brutal to Odysseus, but his sweet caretaking of his ram reveals tenderness in one of the most frightening Greek mythological creatures. The gods also show compassion. This is seen in Athena showing kindness towards Odysseus and his family. Poseidon is also kind. Although in the Odyssey the sea god is viewed in a mostly negative light, Odysseus shares the perspective that portrays Poseidon as nice father rather than an evil tormentor. I know, it’s sappy, but in The Odyssey, Homer show that everyone (even the more frightening and ruthless characters) posses some positive attributes. Homer shows that everyone can love someone, even if it is just your pet ram which you will eventually eat, fellow sailor or son.Or do you think Homer was trying to use the small displays of kindness and tenderness to make his characters appear more realistic? However, there are also the suitors who seem to have no kindness when they plague Odysseus' home and plot to murder Telemachus.