And That's Why I Don't Like Odysseus

I'm in an honors English class. Currently, we are reading books of the Odyssey and then writing an essay about how Telemachus changes throughout the beginning. But, for now we've stopped reading about Telemachus and instead, we are delving into Odysseus's life. I HATE HIM.

Firstly, Odysseus is unfaithful to his wife. I understand that the poor guy has been trying to get home, but you just don't cheat on your wife, no matter how tempting Calypso or Circe or anyone is. His wife Penelope is being courted at home herself, but she doesn't ever give in to her suitors. She refuses to believe that Odysseus very well could be dead. But not Odysseus; he's all, "Oh, I miss my wife, I miss my dear Penelope so much," and then the next stanza says "and they lost themselves in love." Penelope needs a better husband.

My next big reason why I hate Odysseus is that he's really full of himself. Obviously, this epic poem is all about Odysseus, making him the hero. However, you don't go spouting off about how great and righteous you are, especially if you're bragging to someone you just ticked off. Exhibit A: when he and the remainder of his crew have just seconds ago blinded Polyphemus and got on the water again, Odysseus starts shouting "I am the son of Laertes!" and all that jazz. And what does Polyphemus do, in between throwing mountaintops at their ship? He starts praying to Poseidon, who just gives Odysseus a whole lot more trouble than the guy needs. 

So yeah. Odysseus is definitely NOT on my list of favorite people.

Love from your faithful blogger and (David's girl)friend,

Meridith