How did Odysseus change for the better?

Question

anonymous · Answer

So I read the Odyssey and I have to write an essay about how Odysseus changed for the better throughout the story.
I'm having a hard time doing that because I can't stand Odysseus. I think he's a whiney, annoying man who depends on his pride and help from Athena to make it through his journey. I can't think of any positive way that he changed. Ideas?

anonymous · Answer

just my take on things but I believe that he learned various morals and important values that have allowed him to survive and thrive. :D

anonymous · Answer

Really? This is the way I see it
At the beginning of the story, he got in trouble because of his arrogant attitude. He yelled at the Gods that he didn't need them during the Trojan war. This angered poseidon, and poseidon punished him. Odysseus learned nothing from his punishment. In fact, on the island of the cyclone, he said something like "Remember my name when people ask you who shamed you and blinded you". Poseidon punished him more. Odysseus only escaped with the help of Athena. He then went on to brag to the Phaecians about how if it wasn't for him, his stupid crew of men wouldn't have made it out alive. 

At the end of the whole ordeal, he kills all of Penelope's suitors (despite the fact that he cheated on her multiple times) and made the women clean everything up.

So I ask you, what lessons did Odysseus learn?

anonymous · Answer

There are so many lessons Odysseus learned.... For example: He learned that giving up who he is just to escape certain death, isn't any better then actually dying.