Odyssey/Themes

Overview	Themes	Characters	Books	Legacy	Resources

Homer’s Odyssey explores a variety of themes that are relevant even today. The poem follows the journey of the protagonist, Odysseus, who is struggling to return home after fighting in the Trojan War. Along the way, he faces a variety of challenges and obstacles, both external and internal. Here are some of the major themes explored in the Odyssey.

Homecoming

Penelope and the Suitors by John William Waterhouse

At its core, the Odyssey is a story about the desire to return home. In fact, the Odyssey is a nostos, or a version of epic poetry that tells the story of the heroes returning home after the Trojan War. Odysseus spends years away from his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, and faces numerous trials before he is finally able to return. Throughout the poem, the idea of home and homecoming is emphasized in various ways. The characters long for the comfort and familiarity of their own homes and are willing to endure great hardships to achieve this goal. This theme is particularly evident in the character of Odysseus, who must navigate a treacherous journey home and resist the temptation to give up and stay in various exotic locations, such as the island of Circe or the land of the Lotus Eaters.

Cunning

Another central theme of the Odyssey is the importance of cunning and intelligence, or polymêtis in Greek. Odysseus is known for his cleverness and his ability to outwit his enemies. He uses his intelligence to overcome the obstacles that stand in his way, such as the Cyclops Polyphemus, whom he blinds by tricking him into drinking wine. This theme is also evident in the character of Penelope, who uses her intelligence to avoid being married off to one of her suitors by weaving and unraveling a shroud every night for three years.

Hospitality

Hospitality, or xenia, is a significant theme in the Odyssey. The poem shows the importance of being a gracious host and treating guests with respect, and vice versa. This theme is evident in the many instances where characters offer hospitality to Odysseus, such as when he is taken in by the Phaeacians, who provide him with a ship to return home. Conversely, those who fail to show hospitality are punished, such as the suitors who take over Odysseus’ palace and are eventually killed for their lack of hospitality. Read More »

Wandering

Odysseus is a restless wanderer, driven by a desire to explore the world and learn its secrets. Another defining characteristic of the Odyssey is also descriptive of its hero: polytropos is many twists and turns, or the unpredictability of the world that must be approached in versatile and creative ways. This trait is both a blessing and a curse: on the one hand, it fuels his curiosity and drives him to seek new experiences and knowledge; on the other hand, it leads him into danger and often puts his life at risk. Odysseus encounters many wonders and marvels; his curiosity and desire for knowledge are piqued, and he is drawn inexorably towards these strange and mysterious places. His insatiable desire for knowledge and experience gives him the courage to face his foes and the cunning to outsmart them.

Temptation

Ulysses and the Sirens by Herbert James Draper

The Odyssey also explores the theme of temptation. Odysseus is constantly tempted by the allure of pleasure and the desire to give in to his primal urges. For example, he is tempted by the songs of the Sirens, which almost lead him and his men to their deaths. Similarly, his men are tempted by the lotus fruit, which causes them to forget their homes and families. The poem regularly emphasizes the difficulty in resisting temptation and how even the strongest of men can succumb to their desires.

Loyalty

Throughout his journey, Odysseus tests the loyalty of those around him, including his crew, his family, and even the gods. His faithful wife Penelope also demonstrates unwavering loyalty in the face of suitors vying for her hand in marriage. The theme of loyalty emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s principles and commitments, even in the face of adversity. Loyalty is rewarded and disloyalty is punished. Odysseus’ perseverance and loyalty to his home and family are what enable him to eventually return to Ithaca and reclaim his his rightful place as husband, father, and king.

Perseverance

The Odyssey is also a story about perseverance. Odysseus faces numerous challenges on his journey home, but he never gives up. He is determined to return to his family and his home, no matter what obstacles he must overcome. This theme is also evident in the character of Penelope, who perseveres in her quest to remain faithful to her husband and protect her family from the suitors.