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Achilles
and Odysseus: Two Lives which Teach one Lesson The lives of Achilles and Odysseus perhaps most clearly represent the vast differences one finds in the range of heroes in Greek mythology. They vary in almost every possible way including the choices they make, the realms of humanity they represent, and the themes which they embody. Achilles is faced with a choice: live a long and unremarkable life or lead a short, but glorious life. Odysseus, likewise, is given a choice: live forever as Calypso’s husband or return to his mortal wife. Both seem to be given a choice to live forever: one only in legend, one literally. However, Odysseus chooses to spurn immortality and return to his home. Ironically, it is this choice that grants him fame and makes him a legend (for if he hadn’t returned no one would have told his tale). It is clear, though, that Achilles and Odysseus choose the life of fame for very different reasons. For Achilles, it is his desire for glory and hero status that spurs his choice. For Odysseus, the choice is made with less ambition: he wants to return to a “mundane” life, to be reunited with his family and live out his life with them. Achilles’ choice is in many ways the antithesis of this. He directly rejects domestic life, never taking a wife nor having children. Clearly both men represent different spheres of heroism. One is a domestic hero; while the other is an “action” hero. All of the things which seem to represent Achilles: his strength, armor, speed, and endurance, relate to his physical prowess. In contrast, Odysseus is known for his mental skills, his cunning, and his wit. Together, perhaps they would the ideal hero: a man perfect in body and mind. Their beauty also lies in different realms. Achilles is described repeatedly as “godlike” in his physique. Odysseus is also “godlike,” but for the intellectual and emotional integrity of his mind. Rightly, these men feel that nobility lies in different realms. For Achilles, it is valor in combat that deserves reward and respect, and it is through this that he indeed earns his respect. Odysseus gains his respect by enduring long trials, remaining pious, and keeping a cool head. This last directly conflicts with the image of Achilles, who we see run rashly through the battlefield and even challenge his commander. It could even be said that these two heroes embody two common Greek themes: Eris and Eros. Achilles is an angry, wrathful even, man who seeks personal glory for the acts of war he commits and the Eris they inflict. Odysseus, throughout his adventures, takes on different lovers. He stays one year with Circe and seven with Calypso. His end goal is to reunite with his wife. In fact, the very thing which identifies him to his wife is his knowledge of their bed, the place of Eros. Achilles, the hero of action, physical prowess, and Eris differs greatly from Odysseus who represents reflection, mental endurance, and Eros. Both, however, are heroes to the Greeks. In fact, to see them best, we must see them both. As a mortal, one lives between heaven and earth, it is best to act bravely, but rashly and wisely, but slowly. No man wants to face an early death, but no man wants to spend ten years of his life in Odyssean introspection. It is best to achieve moderation between action and thought. top – discuss – essays
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All original material © 2003 Erika Salomon.
