The Odyssey Translated By Robert Fagles

HOMER

THE ODYSSEY

TRANSLATED BY

Robert Fagles

Book I

Athena Inspires

the Prince

Sing to me of the man, Muse, the man of twists and turns …

driven time and again off course, once he had plundered

the hallowed heights of Troy.

Many cities of men he saw and learned their minds,

many pains he suffered, heartsick on the open sea,

fighting to save his life and bring his comrades home.

But he could not save them from disaster, hard as he strove—

the recklessness of their own ways destroyed them all,

the blind fools, they devoured the cattle of the Sun

and the Sungod blotted out the day of their return.

Launch out on his story, Muse, daughter of Zeus,

start from where you will—sing for our time too.

By now,

all the survivors, all who avoided headlong death

were safe at home, escaped the wars and waves.

But one man alone …

his heart set on his wife and his return—Calypso,

the bewitching nymph, the lustrous goddess, held him back,

deep in her arching caverns, craving him for a husband.

But then, when the wheeling seasons brought the year around,

that year spun out by the gods when he should reach his home,

Ithaca—though not even there would he be free of trials,

even among his loved ones—then every god took pity,

all except Poseidon. He raged on, seething against

the great Odysseus till he reached his native land.

But now

Poseidon had gone to visit the Ethiopians worlds away,

Ethiopians off at the farthest limits of mankind,

a people split in two, one part where the Sungod sets

and part where the Sungod rises. There Poseidon went

to receive an offering, bulls and rams by the hundred—

far away at the feast the Sea-lord sat and took his pleasure.

But the other gods, at home in Olympian Zeus’s halls,

met for full assembly there, and among them now

the father of men and gods was first to speak,

sorely troubled, remembering handsome Aegisthus,

the man Agamemnon’s son, renowned Orestes, killed.

Recalling Aegisthus, Zeus harangued the immortal powers:

“Ah how shameless—the way these mortals blame the gods.

From us alone, they say, come all their miseries, yes,

but they themselves, with their own reckless ways,

compound their pains beyond their proper share.

Look at Aegisthus now …

above and beyond

his

share he stole Atrides’ wife,

he murdered the warlord coming home from Troy

though he knew it meant his own total ruin.

Far in advance we told him so ourselves,

dispatching the guide, the giant-killer Hermes.

‘Don’t murder the man,’ he said, ‘don’t court his wife.

Beware, revenge will come from Orestes, Agamemnon’s son,

that day he comes of age and longs for his native land.’

So Hermes warned, with all the good will in the world,

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FAQs of The Odyssey Translated By Robert Fagles

What are the main themes explored in The Odyssey?

The Odyssey explores several key themes, including the struggle for identity, the importance of home and family, and the impact of fate versus free will. Odysseus's journey is not just a physical one but also a quest for self-discovery and understanding his place in the world. The poem also delves into the consequences of human actions, as seen through the fates of characters like Aegisthus and Agamemnon. Additionally, the theme of temptation is prevalent, particularly through the character of Calypso, who represents the allure of comfort and distraction away from one's goals.

How does Odysseus's character develop throughout the poem?

Odysseus evolves significantly throughout The Odyssey, showcasing traits such as cunning, bravery, and resilience. Initially portrayed as a heroic warrior, his character deepens as he faces numerous challenges that test his intellect and patience. His longing for home reveals a more vulnerable side, emphasizing his humanity and emotional depth. As he navigates trials posed by gods and monsters, Odysseus learns the value of humility and the importance of loyalty to his family, ultimately transforming him into a more reflective and wise leader.

What role do the gods play in Odysseus's journey?

The gods play a crucial role in The Odyssey, influencing Odysseus's fate and guiding his journey. Athena, the goddess of wisdom, acts as a protector and mentor, providing assistance and encouragement. In contrast, Poseidon, the god of the sea, embodies the obstacles Odysseus must overcome, as he seeks revenge for the blinding of his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus. The interactions between mortals and gods highlight the theme of divine intervention and the complexities of fate, illustrating how the characters' choices are intertwined with the will of the gods.

What is the significance of Odysseus's encounters with mythical creatures?

Odysseus's encounters with mythical creatures serve to illustrate the challenges of his journey and the broader themes of temptation and resilience. Each creature, from the Cyclops to the Sirens, represents different trials that test his cunning and resolve. These encounters also highlight the dangers of hubris and the need for wisdom in navigating life's challenges. Ultimately, they contribute to Odysseus's growth as a character, reinforcing the idea that true heroism lies not just in strength, but in the ability to learn from experiences and adapt to adversity.