What Are Some Archetypes From The Odyssey?
The Odyssey has many different archetypes that are still relevant in literature, film art, and theater. Some of the archetypes include the trickster, the mentor, the temptress and the underworld archetype.
The Odyssey tells the story of a man trying to return home to his family after the Battle of Troy. It is the story of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca. After the battle, Odysseus tries to go home, but is held hostage by a nymph named “Calypso.” The Gods of Greeks intervene to help bring Odysseus home. Then, through cunning and bravery, Odysseus is reunited with his family.
Archetypes are recurrent symbols found in art and literature. In the Odyssey, the trickster archetype is found in the character of Penelope, Odysseus’ wife. Because Penelope uses trickery to deceive her unwanted suitors. Then, with the mentor archetype, Odysseus’ father, Menelaus, is a great example. Menelaus becomes reinvigorated after finding out that his son is alive and helps him thwart his foes.
For the temptress, Calypso can be seen as an archetype. She tempts Odysseus into staying on her island. The underworld archetype is found with the ghosts that are drawn to blood. The blood symbolizes their great hope for reanimation.
