The Contributions of Homers Book XXIV :: Greek, Odyssey

Hellenic literature, in particular, home runs Odyssey, remains a masterpiece because of its structure. Additionally, an abundance of wisdom pours forth from its pages. Aristophanes and Aristarchus, two Greek critics, claimed that bell ringers Odyssey finish with the lines, Rejoicing in each other, they returned to their bed, the old familiar place they love so well (XXIII 337-338). While, at first glance, Book XXIV appears unnecessary, unaccompanied omitting it leaves Homers work unfinished. Book XXIV cavorts a rattling(prenominal) study of the human condition. The initial encounter between Achilles and Agamemnon appears of little significance, exactly the overall concept lends importance to the book. Since The Odyssey meditates on the nature of civilization, it corresponds that Homer concludes his epical with a lesson addressing mankinds inherent qualities. At the beginning of the book, Homers character, Achilles, accurately brings to light that life does not happen a s planned and, in turn, this becomes a downfall of man. First, Homer calls attention to the human thought process. Achilles tells Agamemnon that we thought a different fate awaited Agamemnon because of his heap (XXIV 25-31). Homer in any case identifies the tendency to dwell on a different aftermath. He illustrates this claiming that if only Agamemnon died differently, the possibility of glory and fame awaited his son (XXIV 32-35). Finally, Homer concludes his lesson proclaiming mans way of thinking as incorrect and not so. He charges Agamemnon fated to whatever destiny befell him (XXIV 36). Homer also has his character, Amphimedon, highlight another human trait the inclination to blame others for the effect of actions, even when knowingly committing a wrongdoing. Homer illustrates this behavior as he writes how Amphimedon charges Penelope with the fault of his death because of her indecision, even after he admits that he made her finish her weaving against her will and forced her (XXIV 161). Amphimedon also attributes his transfer to Odysseus because of trickery. He condemns Odysseus for disguising himself (XXIV 171-177), although Amphimedon openly admits he attacked Odysseus (XXIV 178). In trading these stories (XXIV 1-226), Homer imparts his cognition on life, responsibility, and accountability. Since writing about the nature of civilization, Homer needs to feature the importance of the family relationship. As a result, the epic necessitates Odysseus visit to his father to permit Laertes know of his well-being.