The Contrast Between the Fates of Odysseus and AgamemnonThroughout Homer's epic poems, "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey", the contrasting fates of Odysseus and Agamemnon serve as a recurring theme. Even though both heroes share the experience of war and face various challenges, their outcomes differ significantly. Odysseus triumphs on his long and arduous journey home, while Agamemnon meets a tragic end on his return. This essay will explore the contrasting fates of these two characters, examining their individual journeys, the choices they make, and the consequences they face. Through this analysis, it becomes evident that Odysseus' perseverance, intelligence, and adaptability ultimately lead to his success, while Agamemnon's hubris and lack of foresight lead to his downfall. Say no to plagiarism. Get a Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original Essay Ulysses, the cunning and resourceful hero of “The Odyssey,” embarks on a perilous journey back to his homeland of Ithaca after the Trojan War. His journey is fraught with many challenges, trials and temptations, but he manages to overcome them all thanks to his intelligence and strategic thinking. For example, in the Cyclops episode, Odysseus cleverly blinds Polyphemus, allowing him and his men to escape. Moreover, he outwits the enchantress Circe, resists the seductive song of the sirens, and navigates the treacherous waters of Scylla and Charybdis. These examples illustrate Odysseus' ability to think critically and make calculated decisions, leading to his ultimate victory. In contrast, Agamemnon, the leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War, faces a tragic fate upon his return to Mycenae. His journey is marked by the consequences of his own actions and decisions. Agamemnon's fatal flaw is his pride, which leads him to commit acts of arrogance and disrespect the gods. For example, he sacrifices his daughter, Iphigenia, to appease the gods and obtain favorable winds to sail to Troy. This act angers his wife, Clytemnestra, who plans his murder in revenge. Agamemnon's lack of foresight and inability to consider the consequences of his actions ultimately leads to his demise. Another significant difference in the fates of Odysseus and Agamemnon lies in their ability to adapt to their circumstances. Odysseus demonstrates remarkable adaptability throughout his journey, constantly evolving and adjusting his plans as needed. For example, when he is shipwrecked on the island of the Phaeacians, he adapts to their customs and tells them his story, gaining their sympathy and assistance. Additionally, upon his return to Ithaca, Odysseus disguises himself as a beggar to assess the situation and come up with a plan to reclaim his kingdom. These examples highlight Odysseus' flexibility and ability to adapt to new environments and challenges. On the other hand, Agamemnon's inability to adapt to his changing circumstances contributes to his downfall. When he returns, he meets a woman who has taken a lover and seeks revenge for the murder of their daughter. Rather than seeking a peaceful resolution or attempting to understand Clytemnestra's point of view, Agamemnon remains steadfast in his belief that he is entitled to his position and power. This inflexibility ultimately leads to his murder by his wife and her lover. In conclusion, the contrasting fates of Odysseus and Agamemnon in Homer's epic poems highlight the importance of intelligence, adaptability, and foresight. Odysseus's unwavering determination, strategic thinking, and ability to adapt to new situations ultimately led to his journey home., 1996.