NOTE: Free essay sample provided on this page should be used for references or sample purposes only. The sample essay is available to anyone, so any direct quoting without mentioning the source will be considered plagiarism by schools, colleges and universities that use plagiarism detection software. To get a completely brand-new, plagiarism-free essay, please use our essay writing service.
One click instant price quote
One of the traits the Greeks held in high esteem was intelligence. For example, when Odysseus encountered the cyclops Polyphemus, his quick wits saved his life. Telling Polyphemus that his name was nobody protected Odysseus from incurring the wrath of the other cyclopes, when Polyphemus cried out for help. Not only did Odysseus save his life, but he was rewarded with Polyphemus flock of sheep.
However being foolish resulted in consequences. By mocking Polyphemus and shouting Cyclops, if anyone ever asks you how you came by your blindness, tell them your eye was put out by Odysseus, sacker of cities, the son of Laertes, who lives in Ithaca. (Pg 139 Ln 502) After this fatuous taunt, Odysseus was plagued with Poseidon's anger for nearly ten years. Furthermore, Odysseus was revered by fellow humans and favored by the gods for his astuteness. Upon defeating the Trojans with his ingenious scheme, Odysseus fame as a brilliant strategist spread around the world. Henceforth Odysseus was called favorite of Zeus, Odysseus of the nimble wits. (Pg 161 Ln 60) In addition, Penelope is an example of how the ancient Greeks valued a keen intellect.
Penelope's shrewd plot to weave Laertes death shroud, and then to unravel it each night, showed her cleverness. Revered by all for her intelligence, like Odysseus, explains why Penelope had so many suitors. However because of their ignorance towards courtesy, Penelope did want any of them. All these examples illustrate the Greek value of intelligence.
Another quality honored by the Greeks was refinement. The Greeks always gave generous gifts to any visitor that appeared at their door. This exemplified some of their good manners. The reasons for this are general kindness and to make allies which would assist you in times of need. At a gods whim you could find yourself shucked across the world without any means for getting home, similar to Odysseus plight after his greedy crew had opened the gift from Aeolus. An instance where generosity proved helpful afterwards was when Eumaeus nourished and sheltered Odysseus upon his return to Ithaca, not even knowing that the beggar was really Odysseus in disguise.
Greeting each other cordially and respectfully also shows that the ancient Greeks valued refinement. For example, when Odysseus appealed to Arete for aid on returning to Ithaca he said, Arete, daughter of godlike Rhexnor, as one who has suffered much may I come a suppliant to your husband, to you, and to your guests. May the gods grant them happiness for life, and may each bequeath to his sons the treasures oh his house and the honors bestowed on him by the people. (Pg 99 Ln 47) Odysseus not only complimented Arete through her father which exemplifies respect and admiration towards her and her family, but he also genially wished the best for all in her company. This shows that the Greeks valued more than a simple Hi, I am fine. Can I have some food? The Greeks disfavor towards greed also shows how they value politeness and civility.
Aside from the occurrence with Aeolus another example is when Polyphemus had his eye stabbed out. Had he been kind and charitable towards Odysseus and his crew, his eye would still work properly. Hyperions cattle fit correspondingly with this theme. Despite the warning from Theban Teiresias, and Odysseus command to leave the cattle alone, Odysseus crew still slaughtered and ate Hyperions cattle. As a result of this Zeus destroyed their ship, killing all but Odysseus. This showed that the gods detest greed.
The best example of this is the suitors though. Their utter lack of respect toward Odysseus family and property made the suitors the most hated characters in The Odyssey. Because of their flagrant avarice, every last suitor was killed. Not only were the suitors killed, the maids that favored the suitors were also put to death. Today refinement and intelligence remain important values in society. We still strive for excellence in academics and parents teach their children manners and how to act civilly.
Despite thousands of years and different sides of the Earth, traits such as these significantly prevail.
Free research essays on topics related to: ancient greeks, polyphemus, greeks, odysseus, suitors
Research essay sample on Ancient Greeks Valued Example When Odysseus Polyphemus
