In Homer's The Odyssey, Odysseus tries to get home after being away for twenty years. In his voyage to get home he encounters many problems that he has to overcome and his questionable judgment is tested several times regarding the safety of his crew and his own. Though he was successful in the end in reaching his goal to reach home I question whether he is truly a hero and if so what actions did he display to determine his heroism.
             In this first example to help me answer my question of Odysseus being a hero is in this passage:
             Nevertheless I long- I pine, all my days-
             to travel home and see the dawn for my return.
             And if god will wreck me yet again on the wine-dark sea,
             I can bear that too, with a spirit tempered to endure.
             Much have I suffered, labored long and hard by now
             In the waves and wars. Add this to the total-
             (Book 5, 2412-248)
             In this passage it shows to me Odysseus never ending perseverance and great spirit. It helps show how badly Odysseus wants to get home. He has the attitude that he can surpass any obstacle that may come his way. Odysseus is willing to fight and overcome the different trials the gods can put him through. He also shows fearlessness since he is not afraid what harm the gods could do to him, but instead is ready to take up the great challenge. He truly believes in his capabilities because his heart is willing himself to get home to finally see his wife, Penelope and his son Telemachus. Even the chance to become immortal by the temptation of Calypso does not extinguish his flame to return home to Ithaca. To have this ability to never give up despite how hopeless things might appear requires much strength and intellect.
             The following example shows Odysseus in a different light in contrast with the first example:
             Let me tell you about the voyage fraught with hardship
             Zeus inflicted on me, homeword bound from ...