Odysseus Flaws

An Epic Hero With a Flaw
In one of Homer 's most ancient Greek epics The Odyssey, Odysseus is clearly defined as an epic hero. Although having no superpowers like the Gods, Odysseus is portrayed as brave, loyal and having cunning intelligence throughout his journey home following the fall of Troy. During his return back to Ithaca, Odysseus is faced with many challenges which derail him from his nostos / homecoming. Yet, these obstacles are not only because of the wrath of the Gods, but also due to the consequences of Odysseus ' mortal flaws and weaknesses. Although smart and decisive, Odysseus suffers because of his excessive pride.
Stranded in a gigantic cave with Polyphemus the one-eyed Cyclops by his side, the wise Odysseus devises a very strategic plan. As they both sipped the
After defeating Polyphemus, Odysseus feels glorious because of his victory. He wants to make sure that people know that he was the one who blinded Polyphemus. But this sense of pride becomes detrimental to his goals and causes Odysseus to suffer grave consequences. One of Poseidon 's rages is seen as Odysseus sailed to Phaiakia. As he sailed on his raft, the anger of the sea becomes apparent as Poseidon the "Earth Shaker" gathers clouds, roughs the seas and gathers huge waves. The storm mounts as "a giant wave struck him down from its fearsome crest when he 'd spoken. It twirled his raft in the water and threw him far from the craft, making the steer-oar drop from his hand. The mast was cracked in the middle by frightfully shifting winds that came at it gale-force. The man went under a long time, unable to bob up swiftly from under the drive and fall of the huge wave." (McCrorie 75) The great storm totally deteriorates Odysseus ' spirit. A tired and suffering Odysseus finds himself hoping to slip away from his own