Throughout Odysseus’ journey, he completes deeds requiring great bravery in the face of danger, which helps him overcome his battles. A good example of this is when some of Odysseus’ men are captured at Circes, the remaining crew want to give up and go home. Odysseus is adamant about saving his men, saying “Though the men wanted to be put to sea at once and escape, I made up my mind to see what happened to my comrades ----and rescue them if I could!” (121). This dialogue helps to show that Odysseus is a hero. While most people would have taken the opportunity to leave when they could and only save themselves, he is deciding to try to rescue his people, even though it can be dangerous, which requires a lot of bravery. Another example is while Odysseus and his crew are stuck in the cave of polyphemus, Odysseus devises a clever plan to escape, and his men stick a large wooden stake through the Cyclops' eye to blind him (102). This action shows bravery and heroism because while stuck in this cave, he had to see many of his comrades die. While he could have just given up and let himself and his remaining crew get eaten, he perseveres and leads his men to be able to escape the cave, risking getting hurt or killed in the process. These events help to show Odysseus’ acts of leadership and heroism.

    Odysseus goes through many hardships, losses, and battles, but he never strives away from his leadership and morals. His priorities were always trying to save himself and his crew, which can be seen when he's in Polyphemus' cave and at Circes. Although it didn't work out in the end, he tried his best at every trial. These things help to show that he should be considered a hero, and that no heroes are entirely perfect.