Question

At these words
a black cloud of grief came shrouding over [him].
Both hands clawing the earth for dirt and grime,
he poured it over his grizzled head, sobbing in spasms.
Odysseus' heart shuddered . . .

Why is this character upset?

Answer 1

maybe this might help

.Odysseus seems to feel the need to test everybody's loyalty, even his father's. Here we see Laertes break down at the perceived death of his son,

"At those words a black cloud of grief came shrouding over Laertes. Both hands clawing the ground for dirt and grime, he poured it over his grizzled head, sobbing, in spasms."

Note the intense emotion and the natural elements (earth, grime,dirt) used to personify his grief. As well, the sense of a sad old patriarch is effective.

Answer 2

Thanks

Answer 3

Your welcome hope i helped :).