Introduction
Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey are prime examples of the Greek epic, providing insight into how the Greeks perceived and depicted heroes and what views and values an epic reflected. Based on these classical works, it can also be understood what constituted a Greek epic. Achilles and Odysseus, while different in their virtues and motivations, both demonstrate the characteristics of a Greek epic hero, including reliance on skills, dedication to beliefs, and unwavering honor, revealing the values and peculiarities of the Greek epic genre.
Differences
Physical vs. Verbal Strength
Both Achilles and Odysseus are classical heroes in Greek mythology. Fundamentally, they are different in their drive and the virtues they rely on to overcome obstacles. Achilles is a muscular hero who depends on pure power, whereas Odysseus is “the man of many devices and of persuasive tongue” (Homer, 2019, v.i-95).
Rationality vs. Emotions
Their temper is also entirely different; Achilles is more impulsive, and his anger and lack of self-control lead him. Odysseus, on the contrary, is more self-controlling and cold-blooded (Homer, 2019). Logic rather than impulses dictates his decisions. Finally, the motivation of the heroes also differs, as Achilles is moved by his desire to achieve glory and take revenge. Odysseus is loyal to his family and kingdom, and this is what drives him.
Similarities
Honor
Despite the differences, certain common patterns between the two heroes can reveal what a hero means in a Greek epic. A hero is distinguished by his honor; for example, Achilles “will neither eat nor drink nor wash his blood-stained hands, till he has avenged the death of his comrade” (Homer, 2019, v.i-123). Achilles’ unwavering commitment to avenging his comrade’s death, even to the point of refusing to eat or drink until he achieves his goal, demonstrates his dedication to his values and his sense of duty. This sense of duty and commitment to one’s beliefs is an essential aspect of honor.
Dedication
Dedication is another important characteristic: both Achilles and Odysseus were not afraid of taking risks just for the sake of their beliefs, even if their beliefs differed. The most important part of being a hero in Greek epic is overcoming obstacles by relying on one’s skills, regardless of what exact skills the hero possesses. For example, Odysseus manages to escape from “the island where the Cyclops dwell—a gigantic tribe of rude shepherds, monsters in form” (Homer, 2019, v.ii-68). Odysseus is able to escape a grave predicament by outwitting the Cyclops with his cunning and intelligence. This lends weight to the concept that in Greek epic, a hero is characterized by his or her capacity to conquer challenges, regardless of the exact abilities they possess.
Ancient Greek Definition of a Hero
An epic could be defined by the characteristics of a hero’s journey, including the number of obstacles they face and how they demonstrate their virtues in overcoming them. The Iliad and Odyssey also reveal that an essential part of an epic is highlighting the path of a leader and showing their loyalty to their beliefs, allies, friends, and family.
The similarities between Achilles and Odysseus demonstrate the common worldviews and values of the Greek epic, with honor being the most essential virtue a man can have. Even in death, it is important that “Troy may bury her dead hero with his rightful honors” (Homer, 2019, v.i-138). The phrase underlines the concept that a hero’s honor cannot be taken away, even in defeat. It implies that a hero’s honor must be acknowledged and honored, even by one’s adversaries.
Conclusion
To conclude, the similarities between Achilles and Odysseus and their paths reveal the peculiarities of the concept of a Greek epic hero, Greek epic values, and what constitutes epic as a whole. A Greek epic hero is one who relies on his skills on his path, holds strong beliefs, and is a respectable leader. The obstacles on his path that he overcomes with his skills are an essential part of the Greek epic, while honor, bravery, and loyalty are the values reflected in an epic.
Reference
Homer. (2019). Homer: The Iliad; The Odyssey (W. L. Collins, Ed.) [The Project Gutenberg eBook]. William Blackwood and Sons. Web.