Question: Is Odysseus or anyone else in The Odyssey a hero? If so, what does this tell us about western ideas of heroism? Do any of these ideas remain in place today or have they changed? If so, how or how not and why or why not?
There are many different characteristics that heroes possess one or more of, such as determination, honesty, leadership, and many more. The one common characteristic that has always represented heroism, in terms of western ideology, is courage. Many historical heroes of the West show great acts of courage, such as Abraham Lincoln, who went against the beliefs the majority of America by fighting for African American privileges. A character that represents great courage in the Odyssey is Telemachus. Telemachus shows courage by setting out on a journey, unknowing of whether he’ll find his father or not. It takes courage to abruptly abandon a life of constant familiarity, and security, to a life of constant uncertainty, and danger. Telemachus is a hero because of his representation of the true mark of a hero; courage.
I agree that courage is the most important characteristics of any hero, regardless of the time period. Telemachus is a very brave young man. Even though he grew up without his father, he proves to us that he has the potential to become a hero as his father. Odysseus not only possesses courage, but he also sacrifices 20 years with his family for greater good.