The definition of a leader has a broad spectrum of interpretations. A leader can be a politician, a parent, a soldier, or anyone who has any type of groundbreaking qualities. To define a true leader it doesn't matter if they are rich, poor, man, woman, or anything. Odysseus was willing to give his life for his soldiers at any type during his journey. Some may say he was not a good leader others such as say he could've been one of the greatest. For example, Odysseus took initiative at war in Troy with creating the Trojan horse, devised a plan for his men when they were in danger with Cyclopes and when they were on Circe's island Odysseus selflessly went with the leader when half of his men were turned into pigs.
Odysseus's first true signs of leadership can be seen when he leads his troops during the Trojan War. As it says in the book, " Tell me, Muse, of the man of ways, who has driven far journeys, after he had sacked Troy's sacred citadel " (Book 1 lines 1-3). Odysseus had the courage and bravery to go off to war for his country. At times Troy was considered to be the strongest military in the world. He left his family, his people and his land. A leader is someone who is respected and trusted by others and will follow the chosen path and willing to fight side by side until death. The fellow soldiers of Ithaca must trust in Odysseus's direction. Odysseus designed the Trojan horse and planned the ambush to win the war in Troy. He did not just take the Citadel of Troy in a normal storming fashion such as, ancient battle techniques, but used his creativity and cunning mind to conquer the Trojans. Not only did Odysseus lead his men to a victory but also did it in such a way that very few of his men lost their lives. Once the war was done he led them home through many distractions on the long journey home. It takes a courageous soul to want to fight for your country. He did nit look at the victory as a personal gain that only he would benefit but in a way which all of his motherland could benefit from.