Examples Of Archetypes In The Odyssey

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Homer’s The Odyssey contains universal elements that allow the reader to connect and analyze situations outside of historical and cultural context. Odysseus is a war hero trying to return home to his homeland and family. His previous journey served two objectives: to win the Trojan War, and, on a more profound level, to find a sense of identity. He left his son Telemakhos to fend for himself and to defend his mother Penelope, who is bound by societal restrictions imposed on as a women in power during this time period. Telemakhos is born in the shadow of his father, and he too wishes to mature and become his own person. The Odyssey contains situations and themes that all of humankind can identify and relate to, making it a universal piece understood
Many believe humans are born with a common mind, and that humans recognize common themes known as archetypes. Odysseus embodies the archetype of the epic hero. Odysseus uses his skill and strategy, to escape the Cyclops Polyphemus. However his fatal flaw is exposed in this trial, as he gives his name, “Laertes’ son, Odysseus”(V, 20). His arrogance in proclaiming his name for recognition of his victory leads to consequences which were easily avoidable.This archetype that Odysseus epitomizes can be studied and compared to literature of today that uses the same guideline for a hero as it is common across all cultures. Another characteristic of an epic hero is that they are human, unlike, “the gods who are young forever” (XIV, 527). The division created between the common man and all higher powered beings, magical or otherwise, makes the story a triumph for normal humans through Odysseus. One roots for their fellow mortal, so Odysseus’ story is any other human’s as well. This archetype is historically relevant and generally significant as it is still present in modern media. Humans are deeply flawed beings, and the archetype of the epic hero resonates with the reader as

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