TEEP Paragraph: “The Cyclops” Episode of the Odyssey As Homer indirectly characterizes Polyphemus and Odysseus in the scene of “The Cyclops,” he conveys Odysseus’s heroism in order to compare the ancient Greek values to modern day values. For example, since Polyphemus mistreated Odysseus and his men, Odysseus threatens him by stating “have a care for the god’s courtesy; Zeus will avenge the unoffending guest,” revealing that Odysseus has a close relationship with the gods (663). Meanwhile, Polyphemus realizes that Odysseus is a “ninny” and proclaims, “We Cylopes care not a whistle for your thundering Zeus or all gods in a bliss. We have more force by far” (663). Through Homer’s indirect characterization, we can infer that Polyphemus is disrespectful towards Odysseus’s religious beliefs, doubtful of the gods, and impolite as he mistreats his guests. At the same time, Odysseus imminently comes up with a plan to allow him and his men escape from the Cyclops. Disgusted and feeling bad for most of his men, who were feasted on by Polyphemus, he prays to Athena for “a club, or staff” so he could stop the torture (664). Homer illustrates this to let the reader know the suffering and pain he experienced in the scene of “The Cyclops.” In no time, Athena grants his wish with “an olive tree, felled green and left to season for Cyclops hand,” allowing Odysseus to cut out “a six- foot section of this pole” to make a stake (664). The author conveys this to infer that Athena might adore Odysseus so much because of how strong and brave he is. Having his tools to defeat Cyclops, Odysseus unafraid of stabbing Polyphemus in the eye, stabs him when he is enjoying his
