The Values Of Odysseus In Homer's Odyssey

Odysseus has long been known as classic epic hero, and, coupled with that, the perfect portrayal of ancient Greek values. However, there is another character in The Odyssey who displays these values more accurately—Odysseus’ son, Telemakhos. “’We three stand / ready to follow you and fight (23.126-128).’” In contrast to Odysseus’ loyalties, which are always somewhat uncertain and are in constant conflict with each other, Telemakhos’ values and allegiances are clear and straightforward. This is a sign of both integrity and loyalty, which are two Greek values. In addition, Telemakhos, like other young men in ancient Greece, prizes kleos (glory and renown). Before the battle with the suitors’ relatives, Odysseus and Telemakhos, as Laertes notes, “’vie in courage (24.533)!’” In that same scene,
First, during the contest in which the suitors and Telemakhos attempt to shoot Odysseus’ bow, “’he had it all but strung— / when a stiffening in Odysseus made him check. / Abruptly then he stopped (21.135-137).’” His father’s pride is the only thing that keeps Telemakhos from showing that he is a more than worthy heir to Odysseus. He is also a gifted speaker, as Nestor says: “’one would say No; no boy could speak so well (3.132).’” In addition to all this, Telemakhos accomplishes the tasks Athena laid before him at the beginning of the book perfectly and without delay. Because of all these things, Telemakhos appears to possess more arête than Odysseus. All in all, Telemakhos is the only character in The Odyssey who consistently lives by the ancient Greek values. Though he is often overlooked in favor of his father, he is The Odyssey’s best depiction of the nine values. In short, Telemakhos, rather than his father for whom the epic was named, is the true Greek cultural exemplar in this work of