An Example Of An Epic Hero In Homer's Odyssey

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Epic Hero. What really is an epic hero? Is it a hero that is well, epic? Technically. The definition of an epic hero is “a brave and noble character in an epic poem, admired for great achievements or affected by grand events.” (www.dictionary.com) Now, knowing this we can conclude that an epic hero isn’t just a regular “hero” we find out of the streets of Chicago. Like the man who returned that womens purse when she forgot it on the subway. An epic hero is a different type of hero, who is inspired by different events that happened in his/her life. How is Odysseus from the Odyssey considered an epic hero? Odysseus is an epic hero because he is guided by different gods, accomplishes challenges that other people can’t, he is intelligent and a courageous hero; he proves this to us by showing us how he overcame different challenges and was able to be guided through his journey home.

One example from the Odyssey that proves to us that …show more content…
I will tell you. But you must give me a guest-gift as you’ve promised. Nobody-that’s my name. Nobody- so my mother and father call me, all my friends.” (Homer 223) This shows that Odysseus was able to trick the cyclops into thinking his name was nobody. Which shows us that Odysseus also pursues another trait of an epic hero - Intelligent. Where a hero’s mind is his greatest weapon. Another example of an epic hero that Odysseus demonstrates to us is when he shows glory. Also known as kleos. He shows kleos when he talks to Alcinous. He reveals himself to Alcinous, demonstrating kleos by saying “I am Odysseus, son of Laertes, known to the world for every kind of craft—my fame has reached the skies. Sunny Ithaca is my home.” (Homer 212) This shows us that Odysseus has kleos, by saying that he is famous and known by all. Which is another epic hero

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