Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

2-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Classics

Advisor

David Schur

Subject Categories

Classical Literature and Philology | Classics

Keywords

Odyssey, force, resistance, introduction, nostos, homecoming

Abstract

This thesis explores the ways in which Odysseus’ self-introductions to other characters in the Odyssey reveal the complexities of his character with regard to homecoming and his apparent resistance to it. In examining these introductions, the thesis argues that Odysseus that the language Odysseus uses when he introduces himself is often filled with allusions to force and resistance, indicating that he is perhaps more ambivalent about completing his journey home than would be expected of him. The manifestations of this ambivalence in his behavior upon arriving at Ithaka is also explored in the final chapters.

Share

COinS