The Odyssey is one of the most outstanding epic poems written by the ancient Greek poet Homer. It shows several essential values that people appreciated in ancient Greece. Greek values that are present in The Odyssey are loyalty, hospitality, self-control, and family.
Detailed answer:
Homer’s poem tells the story of Odysseus – the king of Ithaca. He travels for ten years after the Trojan War trying to get back home (Blumberg, n.d.). The Odyssey presents a story full of adventures and temptation, good and evil choices, and hard-won victory. The epic poem was written ages ago. It still captivates audiences while showing a hero and appealing story that is remarkably human.
Lines of poem evoke feelings and show fundamental values that were special for Greek society. The lines “throwing his arms around this marvel of a father, Telemachus began to weep,” present how meaningful family was for people. Greek people valued loyalty, as well. Penelope, a wife of Odysseus, who waits for him for years, represents loyalty. She refuses to believe that he could be dead. Penelope is devoted despite suitors try to win her attention and insist on starting a new affair.
The story emphasizes self-control as a value with lotus fruits. Odysseus does not feel the temptation to eat the lotus fruits. However, his combats accept the food. Eventually, they lose motivation and desire to go back home. Another value, hospitality, is shown when beggars come to Penelope, asking for bread and roof. She asks her maids to take care of the beggars. Penelope says: “In the morning light, you’ll bathe him and anoint him so that he’ll take his place beside Telemachus feasting in the hall.”