Throughout Homer's epic poem, "The Odyssey," the protagonist Odysseus embarks on a perilous journey that takes him away from his well-known family. loved for an extended period of time. This essay aims to explore the reasons for Odysseus' departure from home and the implications of his absence on his family. By analyzing key moments in the text, we can better understand Odysseus' motivations and the impact of his actions on those close to him. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay One of the main reasons Odysseus left home was his duty as a warrior. At the start of the Trojan War, Odysseus, as king of Ithaca, felt responsible for defending his city-state and honoring his commitments to his allies. This sense of duty is evident in Book II of “The Odyssey,” where Odysseus passionately addresses the congregation, urging them to join the war effort. He says: “I wouldn't be considered a latecomer if anyone else here was raring to go. » This statement underlines Ulysses' willingness to sacrifice his personal happiness for the common good. Furthermore, Odysseus's departure from home is motivated by his desire for glory and fame. In ancient Greek society, heroes were celebrated for their heroic deeds, and Odysseus sought to leave a lasting legacy. In Book VIII, he recounts his meeting with the Cyclops Polyphemus to King Alcinous, proudly declaring: "I am Odysseus, son of Laertes, known above all for the study of cunning designs, and my fame reaches to heaven. » Ulysses' desire for recognition and immortality pushes him to embark on dangerous adventures that take him far from his family. Furthermore, Odysseus' journey is shaped by the will of the gods. In Greek mythology, the gods often meddled in the affairs of mortals, and Odysseus was no exception. The god Poseidon, angered by Odysseus' blinding of his son Polyphemus, hinders his journey home, forcing him to face numerous challenges and obstacles. This divine intervention not only prolongs Odysseus' absence but also adds a layer of complexity to his decision to leave his family. The key word “why did Odysseus leave home” is answered in the divine forces that shape his destiny. While Odysseus' departure undoubtedly affected his family, it is important to note that his actions were not without consequences. Penelope, his faithful wife, faces the burden of awaiting his return and fending off suitors who seek to marry her and claim Odysseus' kingdom. His loyalty and resilience in the face of adversity are testament to the strength of his character. Likewise, Odysseus' son Telemachus is forced to mature quickly and take on the responsibilities of a leader in his father's absence. These consequences highlight the far-reaching impact of Odysseus' decision to leave his home. In conclusion, Odysseus' departure from his family was motivated by his sense of duty as a warrior, his desire for glory and fame, and the influence of the gods. While his actions had profound effects on those close to him, they also shaped the characters of Penelope and Telemachus, revealing their resilience and strength. The key word “why did Odysseus leave home” is answered through an exploration of these factors. “The Odyssey” is a timeless reminder of the sacrifices individuals make for greater causes and the lasting impact those choices have on their families. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers. Get a custom essay Works CitedHomer. The Odyssey. Translated by Robert Fagles, Penguin Classics, 1996.