Characters in The Odyssey and Ramayana

In The Odyssey and Ramayana, the authors depict the characters through the eyes of their culture and civilization. In both works, the representation of men and women reflects an ideal that was sought after at the time. Particularly, the texts focus on the relationships between the main characters and the religion, as well as the main character and their familial ties. In The Odyssey, there is Athena and Odysseus while in Ramayana, there is Rama and Sita. Both Athena and Sita represent the idealistic woman which base their actions and thoughts off of their emotions. Whereas Odysseus and Rama, their characters’ roles represent the ideal status of a male figure in the authors’ society and the man’s role between religion and the family.

Athena’s role in The Odyssey focuses on several key components in Greek society that they considered to be normal for women at the time. Her portrayal in the epic distinguishes her from other women, however she still is subservient to men. Athena does not have the power to fully disclose her true form to a mere mortal. Instead she disguises herself in several male figures in the form of friends of Odysseus or idolized male figures while talking to Telemachus. This perception helps carry along the point of men’s importance and how their word and knowledge was superior than a woman’s. By not being allowed to reveal herself in her true form shows men’s power over her, even as a goddess. She also reveals how important Greek society thought of familial ties. Her relation and reason for helping Odysseus isn’t based only on her own personal benefit but to aide one of her relatives, Odysseus. Her otherworldly presence also connects her to how important the Greeks thought of their religion. By...

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...of the Indian culture, however it shares some ideas with Homer’s view of Odysseus. Both figures become idealized and just like Odysseus Rama holds the idea of self restraint. “Rama knows what is right, his gurus have taught him self-restraint. He is grateful, truthful, and honest, and as the king’s eldest son, he deserves to be prince regent.” (867) He holds his own righteousness on another level, separate from any other being. This ability enables him to be the perfect example of what it means to follow one’s Dharma and to complete it. His views on how others perceive him helps demonstrate the idea of no boundaries and always being on your best behavior. In the Indian culture, these ideas were greatly valued and expressed correctly through this text. Even the idea of good triumphing over bad generates the culture’s thoughts on how to live in their society.