Timed Reading — The Iliad and the Odyssey

There are a number of important themes presented in the Odyssey. The first is hospitality. In Homer’s world, hospitality is essential. Although arriving strangers may be dangerous, they are also travelers, probably in need of help. Civilized people, therefore, demonstrate hospitality to show their quality as human beings. Furthermore, strangers bring and receive news. It was through visitors that the Homeric Greeks learned about what was happening in the world beyond their local areas.

Hospitality affects Odysseus throughout the epic. Odysseus’ own home has been taken over by a horde of suitors who crudely take advantage of Ithaca’s tradition of hospitality. In his wanderings, Odysseus receives impressive help from the Phaeacians. Circe is of great assistance after Odysseus conquers her. On the other hand, the Cyclops makes no pretense toward hospitality. In fact, he scoffs at the concept.

Loyalty is another major theme. The clearest example of loyalty is, of course, Penelope, who waits faithfully for 20 years for her husband’s return. Another example is Telemachus, who supports his father against the suitors. Odysseus’ old nurse, Eurycleia, remains loyal to Penelope and her absent master. However, there is a clear double-standard when it comes to sexual fidelity. Penelope is expected to be absolutely faithful to her husband. Odysseus, conversely, is not bound by the same expectation.

Odysseus also embodies the theme of perseverance. Odysseus’ perseverance in his wanderings is legendary. Through the use of guile, courage, and determination, he endures. Perhaps the most difficult test of his perseverance is the seven years he spends as Calypso’s captive, a situation he can neither trick nor fight his way out. Even when the beautiful goddess-nymph tempts him with immortality, Odysseus wants to return home.

The final theme is revenge. In order to escape from the cave of the Cyclops, Odysseus blinds the one-eyed giant. His father Poseidon is not allowed to kill Odysseus, but the sea god manipulates the situation so that Odysseus arrives in Ithaca late, broken, and alone. In addition, Odysseus’ vengeance is formidable when it is directed toward the suitors, most of whom die violent deaths when Odysseus finally returns home.