An essay examining the aspect of characterization in Sophocles' King Oedipus and Homer's The Odyssey
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... e find the two heroes, several other characteristics set the two apart. One is the dignity which Odysseus is able to maintain throughout his arduous twenty year ordeal. For instance, in meeting with the Phaecians, rather than burdening them with his troubles, he decides instead to remember his manners and ask Zeus blessing for the rulers: "O Father Zeus, grant that Alcinous may accomplish all that he has promised. His fame would never die wherever mankind till the soil, and I should come again to the land of my fathers. " (121) While part of this supplication was for his own benefit, Odysseus, it would seem, makes sure to include his hosts, out of politeness and respect. In contrast to this, Oedipus trials and tribulations seem to take their toll, as his character rapidly deteriorates to the point where desperation ruled his existence, where dignity had once prevailed. When Oedipus begins to get ...
