Odyssey, the, Pt 3 – the Central Themes (1965)

The Odyssey is an epic poem featuring three intertwined themes: the return of the soldier Odysseus, the coming-of-age of his son Telemachus, and the fantastical adventures of Odysseus. The central moral truth is that intelligence combined with bravery can overcome great odds. Odysseus, often portrayed as a clever trickster, faces numerous challenges, including encounters with mythical creatures and the suitors invading his home. Telemachus’s journey symbolizes a young man’s search for identity and strength, aided by the goddess Athena. The narrative explores themes of deception, human nature, and the complexity of relationships, particularly between men and women. Ultimately, it raises questions about the desire for adventure versus the need for stability.

Keywords
Odyssey, epic poem, Odysseus, Telemachus, themes, bravery, intelligence, adventure, deception, Athena, human nature, relationships, identity