question icon

What motivates Odysseus to reveal his name?

Category: Literature
Explanation:

In Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, Odysseus reveals his name to Polyphemus, the Cyclops, in order to taunt him and provoke him into a rage. Odysseus and his men had been trapped in the Cyclops' cave and were in grave danger, but Odysseus cleverly devised a plan to escape by blinding the Cyclops and hiding under his sheep. As they were sailing away, Odysseus couldn't resist taunting the Cyclops and revealing his true identity, which resulted in the Cyclops calling on his father, the sea-god Poseidon, to curse Odysseus and prolong his journey home. Odysseus' ego and desire for glory and fame motivated him to reveal his name, even at the risk of his own safety and the safety of his men.

Was this helpful? star star star star star No votes.
Cite this page

What motivates Odysseus to reveal his name?. (2023, Apr 11). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/qa/literature/what-motivates-odysseus-to-reveal-his-name

Answered by StudyMoose
One of our experts proficient in Literature provided the explanation to this question. Feel free to rate the answer and let us know if you liked it.
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment