A Homeric Greek
hero has the following key characteristics:
1. Superior strength and physical prowess. Odysseus
is an epitome of a Greek hero because he displays superior strength and power.
He was a great warrior who was able to fight and win great exploits. Amid the
forces of nature that tried to deter him from pursuing his destiny, he was able
to survive and reached his destination.
2. Sharp mental power and a hunger for glory (persuasive
speaker, clever and shrewd). Odysseus was the one responsible for creating the
Trojan horse which the main cause of the Trojan’s s defeat. Even at the
beginning of the story, he was able to suggest how wisely choose the husband
for Helen. He was also able to outwit Cyclops; and was not tricked and turned into
pigs like his companions.
3. Sensuality. Odysseus was not only strong and
cunning; he was also very attractive. Although he was not able to win Helen’s
hand, he was able to gain the heart of the ever faithful Penelope. The witches,
Circe and Calypso both fell in love with him that they were willing to help him
despite detaining him and delaying his journey for years.
