Loyalty in Odyssey Essay - 824 Words

Loyalty in The Odyssey Loyalty is defined in the Websters dictionary as faithfulness or devotion to a person, a cause or a duty. Through this definition, it can be expressed that loyalty is a major theme in Homers epic, The Odyssey. The author presents four mayor illustrations of loyalty, which are given by Penelope, Telemachus, Eumaeus and Philoetius and Odysseus. Penelope is Odysseus faithful wife who not only doesnt re-marry but also keeps hope that Odysseus is still alive and will someday come home. Telemachus embarks on a journey in search of his father, who has never actually met. Eumaios, the swineherd and Philoitois, the cowherd, remained committed to their duties as true servants of Odysseus. And ultimately, Odysseus†¦show more content†¦Telemachus, Odysseus only son, shows his loyalty to his father by going on a voyage to search and investigate his fathers destiny. Telemachus comments He father me, left me behind at home, and from me he got not joy ( Homer, Book XVI, 135). The autho r clearly demonstrates how this character, despite of never -----with his father, stays true to his cause: finding his father. Many times the author states Telemachuss will to bring back Odysseus, If men could have all they want, free for the taking, Id take first my fathers journey home ( Homer, Book XVI,135). Another significant illustration of loyalty is given by Eumaeus, the swineherd and Philoetius, the cowherd, to their long gone master, Odysseus. Eumaeus speaks highly of his kings return home, Now bring my prayer to pass! Let that men come back-some god guide him now (Homer, Book XXI, 267). On the other side when hearing that Odysseus is coming home, Philoetius replies if only Zeus would make that oath come true-youd see my power, my fighting arms in action (Homer, Book XX, 264). The author describes how ‘both men broke into tears and threw their arms around their old master when they realize the true identity of the beggar, Odysseus. They obviously have great respect and devotion for him. By standing next to Odysseus in the slaughter, risking their own lives, the author properly establishedShow MoreRelatedTheme Of Loyalty In The Odyssey973 Words   |  4 Pagesmajor themes of The Odyssey are loyalty, hospitality, revenge and Disguise. Penelope stays loyal to Odysseus for 20 years, waiting for him to return home and Eurycleia is loyal to Odysseus and tells him who had been disloyal to him while he was away. When Homer recorded The Odyssey, members of the household and staff were loyal to the paterfamilias. Loyalty was expected in ancient Greek times out of respect. Women and servants were submissive to the paterfamilias and their loyalty demonstrated thisRead MoreExamples Of Loyalty In The Odyssey989 Words   |  4 PagesLoyalty is defined in Webster’s dictionary as unswerving allegiance, faithfulness. With this definition it can be expressed that loyalty plays a big role in Homer’s epic ‘the Odyssey’. 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