In Homer’s poem, The Odyssey, The main character Odysseus is shown as a hero for modern times. Homer really does this in a number of ways. The main aspect of Odysseus that Homer concentrates on is his guile and his ability to seek the truth in others. He does this with Penelope to see if she has been faithful to him, and tests her until he is satisfied. He decides that she is innocent and has remained loyal to him and becomes a figurehead in the poem for determining innocence; he is the judge of people. Odysseus does this again with his farter, Laertes. In his father’s orchard, Odysseus tests father to see if he has indeed remained a good man. Laertes has been good, and Odysseus has once again fulfilled his role as the judge in the story.
Looking at the other hand, Odysseus is not the soulless person shown above. No, he feels terrible when he talks to his wife in disguise, but he does so regardless because he has to find the truth. This shows a real human character behind Odysseus. Again with his father, Odysseus is broken up about disguising himself, and reveals himself when he is sure of his father’s good will. Odysseus is not perfect, but that’s what people are. Is the fact that Odysseus is able to overcome these feelings of sorrow that makes him a real modern hero.
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I agree with your belief that he is a hero, but you did conviently leave out the first 18 chapters of the book. During which he constantly lies and doesn't trust anyone. These are not traits that are seen in heroes of today. When Calypso offers Odysseus a way out of her life and to leave her island, instead of being joyful and willing to get out of this horrible place, he immediately questions Calypso saying, "Passage home? Never. Surely you're plotting something else goddess" (158). He is quick to judge others rather than believe that they are trustworthy. I accept your thoughts though.
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