Cultural Artifact In The Odyssey

An epic is a long narrative poem that can reflect the entirety of a culture. By the time one is done reading an epic they will have a better understanding of a culture and their teachings. Epics often have conflicts that are more dramatic than usual and involve a hero and an antagonist. The hero's antagonist often displays qualities that go against the subject culture. Due to this a triumph is perceived as a cultural triumph rather than a personal triumph for the hero. Epics also feature supernatural forces that are beyond the understanding for humans. An epic is an important cultural artifact because they tell the victorious story of a whole nation and educates others.

An example of an epic that was a cultural artifact is Homer's The Odyssey.

The Odyssey is an important piece of literature that influenced the culture of Greece. In the story of The Odyssey we learn the importance of hospitality to the people of Greece. To many people the idea of strangers residing in their home could make someone feel uncomfortable. The homeowner may be afraid that danger may rise upon them or they may not trust the stranger. In The Odyssey however the lack of hospitality is what affects Odysseus. Men are measured by the way that they host their guest. The guest are expected to come bearing gifts, respect the household, and act with grace and appreciation. Ancient Greeks were hospitable even when it's not their desire to be. They would provide food, shelter, and protection to travelers without questioning. Breaking these rules in The Odyssey are deemed to be disrespectful to the gods. This explains why the culture of Greece finds it so important to be hospitable.
Another piece of literature that played an important role on their nation and culture is the story of Joseph in Genesis.

Joseph was a young man that lived with his father, Jacob and his many brothers. Joseph was favored more by his father and this caused his brothers to become jealous of him. His brothers plotted to kill him but, chose to spare his life and sew him into slavery. While in slavery Joseph begins to work for a wealthy man named Potiphar, and eventually becomes the supervisor of the house. One day Potiphar's wife tried to seduce Joseph, she was rejected and accused Joseph of raping her. Joseph is thrown into jail or a crime he did not commit. While in jail, Joseph meets the King's cupbearer and interprets his dreams accurately. He eventually went on to interpret the King's dream accurately and is made a ruler. A famine fell over the nation causing Joseph's brothers to travel to the city where he resides in. Joseph forgave his brothers for selling him into slavery and sent for them, his father, and all their livestock to live in the finest part of the land. Joseph s character exemplifies compassion forgiveness and faithfulness. He obeyed God's teachings and he loved and forgave his brothers even after they betrayed him. He also remained faithful to God during his adverse trials. His story teaches us that God will reward those that remain steadfast and faithful. This explains why so many believers of this faith trust in God no matter what their situation may

be.
In conclusion, one can see how the hero in an epic plays an extraordinary role on a culture. The people of that culture are seeking to match the same characteristics of the heroic person in an epic. A cultural triumph is gained in an epic and that is why the legacy is to live on in the cultures. People of Greece will forever teach the story of Odysseus because they want their nation to be just as hospitable and loyal like the men in The Odyssey. People of faith will forever read The Bible and encourage others to be steadfast and faithful just as Joseph was. Epics are imperative and influence a nation's teachings, beliefs, and character.