Topic > Ulysses: from arrogance to a modest and altruistic hero

Contrary to what is commonly thought, the superman is not the only type of character that adapts to the heroic personality. While “superheroes” come to mind when you think of a hero, there are many other ordinary people capable of extraordinary things. A hero is a person who takes the initiative to embark on a journey of inner growth. During this symbolic journey, one truly finds oneself and improves the lives of others mentally and physically. In Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, Odysseus embarks on the path of heroism, giving birth to the reborn spirit of a selfless and modest hero. During the trial, Odysseus faces many challenges that he must overcome to earn his noble title. Odysseus proves himself to be a well-deserving hero because he is smart with his decisions, shows intelligence, and gets rid of arrogance. Odysseus faces many obstacles in which he must make intelligent decisions. Throughout the Odyssey, Odysseus is often faced with difficult decisions that he must make to benefit himself and his crew. One of the most difficult decisions Odysseus is forced to make is the choice between crossing the path of Skylla or Kharybdis. On the one hand, if they take Skylla's side, six of Odysseus' men will be captured and eaten by the monster. On the other hand, if they take Kharybdis' side, then it's a lottery between losing all crew members in a deadly vortex, or everyone making it out alive. In this case, Odysseus chooses to cross Skylla's path because it would be a better decision for the crew to sacrifice only six members rather than threaten the lives of all the crew members. As guaranteed, six crew members were captured and eaten by the creatures... middle of paper... come, tired before your knees, your waters? Here is your servant; Lord, have mercy on me." (V, 467-473). Odysseus not only demonstrates that he has shed his arrogance, but also shows the transformation he has undergone during his hero's journey, thus demonstrating his nobility and merit in being a hero. Ulysses confirms his role as a hero because he puts thought into everything in his choices, is witty and frees himself from excessive personal pride. From sacrificing six of his men to surrendering his pride to the gods, Odysseus accepts his noble title and proves that he deserves to be a hero. He embarked on a journey where he grew into himself and freed himself from the one thing that always held him back; his arrogance. At the end of the journey, Odysseus went from being a selfish and arrogant leader to being a selfless and modest hero..