The Odyssey by Homer is an epic of enormous proportions. The themes, ideas and messages in the poem are timeless and appeal to every generation of readers. The Odyssey's protagonist is Odysseus, the ruler of Ithaca and a Greek hero of the Trojan War. The poem chronicles Odysseus" journey home from the Trojan War, which is fraught with disaster and hardship and the obstacles he continues to face upon his arrival in Ithaca. Home is Odysseus's main objective, he yearns to be reunited with his wife Penelope and son Telemachus. In order to achieve his objective Odysseus relies on his wit more than his strength. Athena the goddess of wisdom admires Odysseus" cleverness and stands by him throughout his journeys. In the mythical world the Gods" judgment prevails and they possess ultimate control over the lives of mortals. Despite Odysseus's great cunning and astute qualities he is still subject to the power of the Gods and must always disguise his true identity throughout the poem in order to successfully return home.
A man of "twists and turns", Odysseus is consistently put to the ultimate test during his ten year adventure of return to Ithaca to restore his authority . Odysseus rises to the occasion by using his intellect to overcome obstacles. Never at ease, Odysseus is always ready to spin a tale to save his skin. Even upon his arrival in Ithaca, Odysseus remains wary of his surroundings and trusts no one. The Phaeacians leave Odysseus sleeping in a cove sacred to nymphs with his Phaeacian treasures. When Odysseus awakes he does not recognize Ithaca because Pallas Athena has enchanted his sight. She approaches Odysseus in the guise of a young shepherd boy and he weaves an elaborate lie, taking precautions because he does not recognize his surroundings. Athena, amused by Odysseus" tale reveals herself and teases Odysseus, "You terrible man, foxy ingenious, never tired of twists and tricks-so not even here, on native soil, would you give up those wily tales that warm the cockles of your heart! " This part of the text exemplifies Odysseus" shrewd and calculating characteristics which are so amazing they are recognized and appreciated by the Gods.
