So I’ve been doing more research, and I found something that kinda builds upon my last post (about Odysseus giving up his immortality, the heroic paradox, etc.) In Nancy Sultan’s Exile and the Poetics of Loss in Greek Tradition, the wife of a hero is extremely important, as her mourning perpetuates his glory after his death, and therefore brings him immortality. Here is a quote:
“All heroes are mortal, and all must die - preferably with honor. A hero’s death means nothing, however, if his story dies with him. The woman’s presence and vocal performance both at the moment of death and for a long time after is required.” (80)
With this argument, one could say that Odysseus’ real reason for questioning about Penelope’s faithfulness is to ensure that his glory will be sung after he dies. That’s not to say that love doesn’t play a part in the equation, but in a culture that values glory so much, this makes sense.
What does everyone else think?
Hello, I enjoyed reading your opinions. I am currently in eighth grade and have been assigned the task to write an essay on Odysseus as the Homeric Hero. The qualities my teacher has explained to me of a Homeric Hero are as follows:
Displays strength, courage, nobility, and trust
Confident with authority, articulate speaker
Sharp intellect and wit used to problem solve
Over time learns to temper pride with patience
Thirst for glory
Glory seeking can interfere with home coming
Character often remains static vs dynamic
I have found many examples of these traits throughout this epic poem but I am in desperate need of more. I am not asking you to write the essay for me I am just wondering if you coukd find some time to email me any specific things that happen in the book to support these qualities. My email is marshallizthebest@hotmail.com. Please email me with any info.
Thank you very much,
Marshall
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