The Destruction Of Poseidon In Homer's Odyssey

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Hook The Greek translation of Poseidon is “Earth Shaker,” a name unjustly associated with wrath and revenge. Thesis Poseidon has an underserved reputation of being a wrathful and vengeful god. “Odysseus, with the help of his men, lifts the flaming stake, charges forward and drives it into Polyphemus ‘ eye, blinding him . . . Poseidon curses Odysseus, sending storms and contrary winds to inhibit his homeward journey.” (Johnson, Poseidon: Greek God and Lord of the Sea.) Even though Poseidon’s punishment is arguably harsh, it is justified since Odysseus killed his son, Polyphemus. Odysseus is fortunate he did not receive a more severe penalty, such as a curse or disfigurement, retributions commonly imposed by the Gods. “Although most myths cast Poseidon in a…show more content…
. . The king of Troy had promised to pay the gods with vines of gold when the wall was finished but failed to keep his end of the bargain. Poseidon was infuriated and sent a sea monster to destroy the wall.” (Johnson, Poseidon: Greek God and Lord of the Sea.) Poseidon’s destruction of the wall was justifiable since the king of Troy breached his agreement to compensate Poseidon and Apollo with vines of gold for the year of strenuous labor. The king of Troy’s actions was an outrage, especially towards a god who frequently received praise and offerings for this blessings upon humans. When a mortal breaks a promise to a god, it could result in the utmost punishment, death. Poseidon showed mercy to the kind of Troy by sparing his life, but destroying the wall. “When the king of Crete requested a gift from Poseidon, a fine bull to sacrifice, Poseidon generously sent him the very finest from his herd, so fine in fact that King Minos decided to keep it himself instead of sacrificing it. Poseidon was angry and caused the king’s wife to fall in love with the bull.” (Skidmore, Poseidon and Greek
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