Odysseus Role Of Archetypal Outcasts

The role of archetypal outcast serves as a reflection of what characteristics are rejected by societal norms; this is something that is represented in Odysseus’s character. While there were numerous expectations and norms in ancient Greece, wealth was an important status indicator, and therefore incorporated as a societal norm. Being that Odysseus was a powerful king, it’s fair to assume that he possessed great wealth as well, meaning he fit the societal standards. Up until his journey to Troy and back, Odysseus had never deviated from societal standards, at least in terms of wealth. However, upon reaching his beloved Ithaca, Odysseus was swiftly disguised as an old beggar by Athena to allow him to see how Ithaca had stood for 20 years without his leadership.
When faced with the wealthy suitors who’d been courting his wife for decades, Odysseus found himself being met with constant ridicule rather than civil discussions. Though hospitality was granted to him by Eumaeus, the swineherd, and Thelemacus, Odysseus’s son, the rest of the community was reluctant to give him an ounce of empathy, as they distinguished him purely on the basis of his low-class appearance. The suitors were quick to formulate predisposed opinions about this “old beggar,” never failing to treat him as ignoble, and they quickly outcasted him due to his perceived disadvantages; in this case, those disadvantages were his age and low economic status. Nonetheless, after observing the despicable ways of the suitors, Odysseus took the opportunity of Penelope’s matrimonious archery contest to confront them. Predictably, this confrontation wasn’t looked upon favorably by the suitors. As the suitors took turns struggling to string the bow they were presented with, an old man stepped up to the challenge and captured the