The Odyssey
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Odyssey Book VIII
Throughout the book, Odysseus has suffered and been mocked on his journeys, but he seems to maintain his values. Give an example of when he is tactful and respectful in this chapter. Why do you think Odysseus remains honorable despite actions by either the gods or mortals that interrupt his voyage home?
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No matter what happens, Odysseus always keeps his composure. In the past, he had been in many terrible battles, trapped with Calypso, unable to reach his family, sent out on a violent sea, and washed up on an island. He is admired so because he always overcomes whatever terrible thing is thrown at him next. In this book, Odysseus was challenged and mocked by Laodamas when he was not participating in the games. He accepted this challenge, and triumphed at discus throwing. Although he did do a bit of friendly boasting, he was not vain about his talents, and still showed respect for Laodamas. He did not think it proper to challenge Laodamas because he was his host and a friend. He may have acted this way because that is just how he is; kind and respectful. He is also wise enough to know that one should not ask for help from someone, and then disrespect them.
ReplyDeleteIn this chapter we see Odysseus interact with a large group of people that he barely knows. He is respectful, charming, kind and the perfect guest. Even though he has been through so much and is probably tired and incredibly frustrated, he is very tactful and composed. One example of Odysseus keeping his composure is when Laodamas is making fun of him and trying to get him angry. Odysseus remains calm and respectful and joins the games. Even though Laodamas was trying to make Odysseus mad, Odysseus kept his normal, tactful attitude, while showing his strength. I think that Odysseus remains this way despite the fact that nothing is going his way because he is a truly nice and honorable person. He is also very conscious of the gods power and how they could influence his life if he makes them angry.
ReplyDeleteThroughout his journey, Odysseus has managed to maintain his values and respect towards others. Especially in this book, Odysseus is challenged by a prince unknown to him and is mocked for not joining in the competitions. Although it might be tempting for Odysseus to prove he is better than Laodamas, he maintains his respect and says that he would never compete against his host. I think that he keeps his values because after being away from home from so long, he probably has had lots of time to realize what is most important to him and what things in life he values. He has experienced many more hardships in life than other people in this book, and he therefore is more wise and knows how to act the right way.
ReplyDeleteIn this book, like others, Odysseus remains calm and recluse in his navigates aggressive situations with a relaxed confidence but no bravado or ego. In this book, a jealous Laodamas attempts to provoke Odysseus in order to boost his own confidence and ego. Yet, unlike many men, he does not accept the challenge but leaves Laodamas in an awkward situation. I believe his way of thinking is thinking big not acting big. He shows he has a big heart and no wish for conflict or any trouble of the sort. He shows hardship and his only wish is to go home, not become rich, or become a fierce warrior or be known as the king that gave up. What he truly wants above nothing else is to get home. And if the only way he can get home is to be silent and pass on through that is exactly what he is going to do.
ReplyDeleteOne of the main reasons why people are enthralled with Odysseus upon their first encounter with him is his godlike stature and his humble personality. He exceeds all men because he outmatches them in all areas, strength, bravery, physical beauty, and wisdom, but never boasts about his greatness, provokes other men, or challenges them. Most mortal men who have these qualities of excellence would want to show off and challenge other men. Gods, on the other hand, who are also well aware of their great powers, never provoke or challenge other gods or mortal men who they know are much weaker then they are. Odysseus is similar to gods in the sense that he never shows off the powers he has unless he needs to.
ReplyDelete* just as a correction I men Broadsea instead of Laodamas
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