The Contributions of Homers Book XXIV :: Greek, Odyssey

Greek literature, in particular, Homers 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 Homers Odyssey ended with the lines, Rejoicing in each other, they returned to their bed, the old familiar place they loved so well (XXIII 337-338). While, at first glance, Book XXIV appears unnecessary, tout ensemble omitting it leaves Homers work unfinished. Book XXIV features a wonderful study of the human condition. The initial encounter between Achilles and Agamemnon appears of little significance, but the general concept lends vastness to the book. Since The Odyssey meditates on the nature of civilization, it corresponds that Homer concludes his epic 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 as 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 circumstances (XXIV 25-31). Homer also identifies the tendency to dwell on a different aftermath. He illustrates this claiming that if only Agamemnon died differently, the possibility of idealization 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 dowry befell him (XXIV 36). Homer also has his character, Amphimedon, highlight another human trait the inclination to blame others for the outcome 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). Amph imedon 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 knowledge 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 let Laertes know of his well-being.