Theme Of Chaos In The Odyssey

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In The Odyssey by Homer, he portrays the reoccurring theme of chaos versus calm and order. This theme is evident throughout the story particularly in the first few books. Homer shows the two themes contrast and push the plot of the poem to reach a conclusion. To eliminate chaos and regain order and calmness, heroes are needed to solve the problem. In the first twelve books of The Odyssey, Homer shows cunning and intelligent heroes in order to restore peace where there is chaos at the homeland, in foreign land, and on the seas. In the Odyssey, we see chaos in both the lives of Odysseus and Telemakhos contrasting with the calm and order observed by both men on their journeys. Throughout The Odyssey, Odysseus struggles against harsh circumstances that deters his efforts to return home. He’s buffeted against the waves, stranded on islands, held captive, and blown across seas for …show more content…

The Trojan War is the main cause of instability in their lives. It leads to Odysseus's disappearance in Telemakhos's life since he was child causing him to be unsure of his father and in turn himself in comparison to his great father. He talks to Athena disguised showing how he does not believe he is his father's son seeing as how he is unable to go against the suitors. (I. 259-264) There is only mayhem in the household as they plunder the resources and mistreat the people of the household. The suitors are barbarous and destructive, representing chaos and disorder soon to be overcome by the men of the household. On his journey he finds peace and kindness at the kingdoms he stops at. King Nestor, Menelaus, and Alkinoos had ordered kingdoms, good manners, and tremendous success. They spoke eloquently and maintained high ideals for themselves and their guests. They gifted Telemakhos and showed much

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