Being an epic hero doesn't always mean putting others before yourself. It takes great responsibility and patience to prove that you are worthy of such a prestigious title. In Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, Odysseus, king of Ithaca, is attempting to return home after fighting for ten years in the Trojan War. Odysseus faces many challenges against both mythical creatures and gods. On the way home, Odysseus' wife Penelope and their son Telemachus pushed aside suitors seeking the throne of Ithaca and Penelope's hand in marriage long enough for Odysseus to return home to his embattled kingdom. and claim his life. Ulysses was in fact a true epic hero; he presented this through his prudence and tenacity during his journey home. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Odysseus faced many challenges in all accounts of his journey home, but he was stubborn to remain patient and strong throughout. While enduring his frightening encounter with the inhuman beast, Odysseus remained calm, persistent, and fearless; for he knew that if a move was made too soon, his troops would be trapped in the den and left to die. Odysseus strategically constructed a plan to entice the Cyclopes to open their only exit. Although Odysseus had not always been prudent, his characteristics as an epic hero had been evident even before he began his journey home. Although Odysseus was not always as loyal in marriage as one would want an epic hero to be, he did what was necessary to protect his life and the lives of his warriors. When Odysseus visited Calypso in the fifth book, she refused to let him return home. Odysseus had to think of a way to convince Calypso to let them go. He did what had to be done. The fifth book reads: After Calypso, drowned in lust, succeeded with Odysseus, she could now return to her journey home. Odysseus promised her that he would return, saying those words only to convince her to allow him to leave. Odysseus knew his mistakes and his strengths throughout his journey, but he was aware at all times of what he was doing. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get Custom Essay Odysseus showed his characteristics of being an epic hero in many ways; be courageous, responsible, honorable, loyal, persistent, patient, intelligent, prudent, courageous and noble. He knew how to stay calm in difficult situations and knew his limitations and strengths. Odysseus knew he wanted only one thing; to return to his life he left just ten years before his journey home. He was persistent, stayed on track and remained determined to achieve his goal. Odysseus is the perfect example of an epic hero and proves this after his numerous victories against gods and mythical animals during his prolonged adventure home..