The Contributions of Homers Book XXIV :: Greek, Odyssey

Greek literature, in particular, kors Odyssey, remains a masterpiece because of its structure. Additionally, an abundance of science pours forth from its pages. Aristophanes and Aristarchus, two Greek critics, claimed that homing pigeons Odyssey ended with the lines, victorious 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, entirely omitting it leaves Homers work unfinished. Book XXIV features a wonderful direct of the hu gentlemans gentleman condition. The initial encounter between Achilles and Agamemnon appears of little significance, but the overall concept lends immenseness 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 plotte d and, in turn, this becomes a downfall of man. First, Homer calls attention to the human archetype 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 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 outcome of actions, still when write outingly committing a wrongdoing. Homer illustrates this behavior as he writes how Amphimedon charges genus Penelope with the fault of his death because of her indecision, even after he admits that he make her finish her weaving against h er will and forced her (XXIV 161). Amphimedon also attributes his demise 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.