Traits In Odysseus From The Odyssey

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Each character from The Odyssey has a unique personality that makes them memorable throughout the whole poem. These personalities help them in situations but at times it won’t always be that great to have. Each character has its’ pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages. Odysseus is a prime example of this. Even though he is the shining hero of the novel he isn’t perfect. He, just like all the other characters, has advantages and disadvantages in his personality. He has good things about him that can help him succeed but, also he has bad things in his personality which can sometimes cause him to get into trouble. Odysseus may have had help from the gods throughout the poem but, he is arrogant and vengeful. The gods always have Odysseus’ back and they are on his side. The goddess who is always watching over Odysseus is Athena. In one instance she even tells him how they are so alike. Odysseus is back on Ithaka and after smooth-talking his way and making a big Kretan lie, Athena reveals herself to him. “’No more of this though. Two of a kind, we are,/contrivers both. Of all men now alive you are the best in plots and storytelling. My own fame is for wisdom among the gods—/deceptions too./Would you even have guessed/ that I am Pallas Athena, daughter of Zeus,/ I that am always with you in times of trial,/…’” (Book 13. Lines 379 - 386) Athena reassures Odysseus and proves how she is always on his side. She helps him with disguises and gives him confidence in many situations. However, sometimes, he can be too confident. Odysseus possesses great arrogance. Even if he has just been saved by the gods he will boast and brag. When he was in Kyklops’ cave he almost was at a point of no return. However, he successfully managed to blind the Kyklops and escape. But, haughtily he stole some of the

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