Odyssey 5

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magic with the help of moly, when he fills his men’s ears with wax and ties himself to a post so that he and his men can get by the Sirens safely, and when he disguises himself as a beggar and reveals his true identity to few. Odysseus is by “far the best of mortal men for counsel and stories” (Bk. XIII, 297 – 298). Also, Odysseus is said to be able to match a god in wits and trickery (Bk. XIII, 291 – 295). Penelope, Odysseus’ wife also uses her wit and trickery to get herself out of situations. An example of this is when she pretends to be weaving a shroud for Laertes, but actually undoes at night as much as she had done in the morning. Athene, the goddess of wisdom, provides another example of the usage of wit and tricks. Athene disguises Odysseus as a beggar and also surrounds him with a mist numerous times so that his former acquaintances will not see or recognize him.
Other significant mental characteristics that the Greeks valued are ...

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the bow in his hands, strings it with greatest ease, and sends an arrow clean through all twelve axes” (Bk. XXI, 75 – 76). Strength was also a part of the Phaiakian’s competition. Strength was needed for the discus throwing (which Odysseus excelled in), wrestling, and boxing. Also, the Greeks loved competition, proven by the fact that they urged on Odysseus and Iros to fight. And when they finally saw blood, they went crazy, laughing and cheering like it was the most exciting thing in the world.
The Greeks enjoyed many recreations and pastimes, of which dancing, singing, and storytelling were dominant. The Phaiakians were known for their terpsichorean skills, ...

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