The power of Odysseus: Achieved or Received? .
Throughout The Odyssey, Odysseus" gained authority due to the aid and power of others, which resulted in three phases of understanding: self-determination, courage, and having a greater vision in life. In order to understand these three phases, one must be able to conquer predominance from those who are less useful than others. While being physically strong, he lacked mental strength without the guidance of the gods. Odysseus was a loner, but once meeting up with others he became popular. Once he makes these friends he learns more about the subjects of daily life. They are the ones who have more predominance than others because they know more people and are more intriguing. Odysseus needed and used the help of others to gain more knowledge throughout the story.
Once Odysseus has served enough time in a place against his will, he would be determined to leave that place. Odysseus" journey towards home was now going to have the chance to come to and end. For seven years, Calypso held him prisoner on the island of Ogygia where he wanted to leave to seek the completion of his journey. Calypso agrees to let him go but first offers Odysseus some advice and guidance saying, "Only I will not aid [you] on [your] way, for I have no ships fitted with oars, nor crews to bear [you] over the broad ocean ridges; but I will freely give [you] counsel and not hide how [you] may come unharmed to [your] own native land"(Bloom, 47). Calypso realizes the greatness of Odysseus and gives him some advice. Odysseus though will have to prove his greatness by making his own ship and understand how he will make it home.
Even though Odysseus was physically strong, at other points his weaknesses were evident. When the Phaeacians returned Odysseus home, he couldn't figure out where he was. For some reason, he decided to recount his jewels and gifts. While doing so the Phaeacians were turned to stone by Poseidon for helping him return home.