Fate

Fate is defined as destiny or, " the development of events beyond a person's control" (dictionary.com) Although we haven't read very far into this book, based off of the reading we have done I believe that odysseus can not control his fate. The only way his fate can be altered is by the gods. For example, we learn in class that Hermes, the messenger god, was sent to convince calypso to let odysseus go. If Hermes or any other god did not help, odysseus's travels would not necessarily continue. One line that we previously discussed in class was, "But then, when the wheeling seasons brought the year around, that year spun out by the gods when he should reach his home, ithaca" (20). It is pretty evident that in this culture, many believed that fate is controlled by gods and that one can not change their own fate. I think that someone's choices can change their planned fate, but ultimately it is up to their gods to decide their fate. A little later in the book it says, "But my heart breaks for Odysseus, that seasoned veteran cursed by fate so long." Although Odysseus longs to reach his home town in Ithica, his pre-determined fate by the gods curses him and keeps him from reaching his wanted destination. So far in The Odyssey, it seems as though the people relied on their gods for their destiny and looked upon their gods for each part of their life.

If anyone disagrees, please share your thoughts because I would love to hear!