Essay on Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey

Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey During the course of history, the world has seen many fine works of literature like Homer’s epic, Odyssey. This book is a standard against which to compare all literary novels. The symbolism permeates the pages drawing the reader into the intriguing plot that includes twists within the central theme. Also, the author intelligently uses imagery and diction painting dramatic images in the reader's mind - building upon major the themes. The book contains a captivating use of symbolism making the story more interesting and understandable. This magnetizes the reader into the book. "At the first show of dawn, great Alcinous left his couch, as did that ravager of cities, Odysseus, kinsman of Zeus." (Homer, 79) In this quote, Odysseus is referred to as the kinsman of Zeus who is the supreme god. Here, the word kinsman is used as a symbol to portray Odysseus's strength and bravery. He is so brawny that he has the honour of being called the kinsman of Zeus. Apart from Zeus, there are many other gods mentioned in the book. One can associate each god with some or the other symbol. Zeus announces, "It is Poseidon the world-girdler who is so headily bitter against him..."(6). This quote shows that Poseidon, the god of the sea and earthquakes, is referred to as the world-girdler, which literally means world shaker. Poseidon is given other aliases including earth-shaker, which suit him not only because of his position, but also because of his nature, which is very hot-tempered. The riveting plot includes deception and unexpected twists within the central theme thus adding interest. After the Trojan War, the veterans returned home to their own land to a hero's ... ...rils. (214) As seen by this quote, the words Homer uses, such as spurted, create vividly graphic images in the mind of the reader. The details of how Antinous is killed here help enhance this theme that is exhibited throughout the novel. As displayed above, there is a good use of symbolism in The Odyssey to add to the interest of the reader. Also there are unexpected twists and turns around the central theme to keep the reader in suspense. Finally, Homer ingeniously uses the words to create stunning pictures that help relate to the text, and disclose and heighten key themes depicted in the book. The Odyssey is clearly an exceptional piece of writing that will forever remain a classic. This epic is undoubtedly part of the elite group of books published over the course of time.