Amanuel Ghebremariam
Mr. Meritt
Omnibus
10/9/2024
Encomium
Odysseus is more than just a brave man. Whereas many people were
known by their strength or actions, Odysseus showed many of those things:
being cool and reserved when others might freak out on some dangerous
islands or in danger. It is his composure that helped him survive some of the
hardest challenges against creatures and sometimes the gods.
Odysseus was born into a royal or wealthy family, so they taught him
to be a leader and to think in an instant about everything that would happen.
From them, Odysseus learned how to be responsible and take care of an
army while at the same time being bright and perceptive of every situation
that came upon him. His family background gave him the start he needed,
while he worked hard for what we will know as the wise and controlled
leader.
He was not only trained for combat but also educated on using his head.
While others pursue glory or even corporal pleasure, Odysseus managed to
realize the important factor toward success lies in thinking ahead and
disciplining oneself.
His intelligence did not depend on one's physical strength alone. He
used his brain to get himself out of several dangers. For me, this is the
balance that makes Odysseus such an amazing hero. His self-control at all
times, even during the most dismal of circumstances, speaks much about
the kind of character he had.
Odysseus's self-control can be well evidenced when he had to face the
Sirens. As their songs were infamous for making sailors lose control and drive
their ships onto rocks,. But instead of falling into that trap, Odysseus had his
men bind him to the ship's mast and plug their ears with wax so they should
not hear the song. That wise move saved all of them.
Other examples include: he met the one-eyed Cyclops Polyphemus,
although he wanted to attack, Odysseus knew this is not a proper time. He
waited and planned a way with which he could blind the Cyclops and run
away. These moments show how cool he kept himself and did not act by
spontaneous impulse, and through that, he was able to triumph successfully.
I believe it is from these stories that are told, showing not only that Odysseus
was clever but more so his self-control, was what made him a great hero.
Odysseus in comparison to other Greek heroes, such as Achilles, is
quite different. Achilles was a strong figure, but at the same time, his
feelings controlled him, and he never thought before acting. His anger
brought him mistakes. Odysseus always stayed in a calm position and he
never allowed his feelings to take over.
Instead, he used his smarts while keeping down his emotions and
resolving problems in his mind. To me, this makes Odysseus a better hero
than Achilles. It means a truly strong man is not in his muscles but in the
control over himself and in his thoughts.
The life of Odysseus was truly a perfect example of why this
composure is so worth it, sure worthy of applause. We can follow Odysseus
and march up to any task just the way he did. His story is commendable as
he is an underrated character.
