Aeneas vs. Odysseus

Definition

Aeneas and Odysseus are two central figures in epic poetry, representing different ideals of heroism in their respective narratives. Aeneas, the protagonist of Virgil's 'Aeneid', embodies the values of duty, sacrifice, and destiny, while Odysseus, from Homer's 'Odyssey', exemplifies cunning, cleverness, and personal glory. The contrast between these two heroes highlights the evolution of heroic ideals from the Homeric tradition to the Roman context.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aeneas is often viewed as a 'tragic hero' because he is constantly torn between personal desires and his greater duty to found Rome.
2. Odysseus is celebrated for his intelligence and resourcefulness, famously using tricks like the Trojan Horse to achieve victory.
3. While Aeneas is guided by fate and the gods towards a preordained goal, Odysseus relies on his own wits and experiences to navigate obstacles.
4. The portrayal of Aeneas reflects Roman values of duty and nationalism, contrasting sharply with Odysseus' focus on individual glory and adventure.
5. The relationship with divine forces differs: Aeneas has a more submissive approach to the will of the gods, while Odysseus often challenges or negotiates with them.

Review Questions

• How do Aeneas' motivations differ from those of Odysseus in their respective epics?
  • Aeneas is motivated by a sense of duty (pietas) towards his family, people, and destiny, aiming to fulfill the prophecy of founding Rome. In contrast, Odysseus is primarily driven by personal glory and the desire to return home after the Trojan War. This fundamental difference highlights how Aeneas' character reflects Roman values, emphasizing collective responsibilities over individual achievements.
• Analyze how the themes of fate and free will are represented differently in the journeys of Aeneas and Odysseus.
  • In the 'Aeneid', fate plays a dominant role in Aeneas’ journey as he is often depicted as an instrument of destiny working towards the founding of Rome. His actions are heavily influenced by divine intervention. Conversely, Odysseus exhibits more free will and agency in his journey; he navigates various challenges using his cleverness and resourcefulness rather than being strictly guided by fate.
• Evaluate how Aeneas and Odysseus represent evolving ideals of heroism in literature from Greek to Roman times.
  • Aeneas and Odysseus embody contrasting ideals that reflect shifts in cultural values between Greek and Roman societies. While Odysseus represents the quintessential Greek hero whose cunning and individualism shine through his adventures, Aeneas symbolizes the Roman ideal of heroism rooted in duty, sacrifice, and collective destiny. This transition illustrates how literature adapts to cultural changes, prioritizing national identity and purpose in Aeneas' narrative compared to personal glory in Odysseus' tale.

Related terms

Epic Hero: A central character in an epic poem who embodies the values and traits admired by their culture, often facing grand challenges and embarking on significant journeys.

Pietas: A Latin term meaning 'duty' or 'piety', representing Aeneas' dedication to his family, country, and the will of the gods, which drives his actions throughout the 'Aeneid'.

Cunning: The ability to achieve goals through cleverness and skillful deceit; a key trait of Odysseus that allows him to navigate complex challenges during his journey home.