Polyphemus

Definition

Polyphemus is a one-eyed giant from Greek mythology, specifically a Cyclops, who is most famously known for his encounter with Odysseus in Homer's 'Odyssey.' This creature embodies the themes of brute strength and the consequences of violating the sacred code of hospitality, as he is both a monstrous figure and a representation of the dangers that come with being inhospitable.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polyphemus is the son of Poseidon, which plays a crucial role in the consequences Odysseus faces after blinding him.
2. In his encounter with Odysseus, Polyphemus captures Odysseus and his men and begins to eat them, showcasing his brutal nature.
3. Odysseus uses cunning to escape from Polyphemus by tricking him into drinking wine and calling himself 'Nobody,' so when he blinds the giant, Polyphemus cannot seek help.
4. The episode with Polyphemus reflects the violation of xenia, as he shows no hospitality toward Odysseus and his men, instead resorting to violence.
5. After blinding Polyphemus, Odysseus reveals his true name out of pride, leading to Poseidon's wrath and further challenges on his journey home.

Review Questions

• How does Polyphemus exemplify the themes of strength and hospitality in Greek mythology?
  • Polyphemus represents raw physical strength as a Cyclops who can overpower Odysseus and his men. However, his actions also serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of hospitality. Instead of welcoming Odysseus and his crew, he resorts to cannibalism, highlighting how violating xenia leads to dire consequences both for him and for Odysseus.
• What are the consequences of Odysseus revealing his true identity to Polyphemus after blinding him?
  • When Odysseus reveals his name to Polyphemus in a moment of pride, it invokes the wrath of Poseidon, who seeks revenge on Odysseus for harming his son. This act leads to numerous challenges during Odysseus's journey home as Poseidon creates obstacles at sea, showcasing how personal choices can have broader repercussions in mythological narratives.
• Evaluate the significance of Polyphemus's encounter with Odysseus in relation to the broader themes present in 'The Odyssey' and Greek mythology.
  • The encounter between Polyphemus and Odysseus is significant as it encapsulates essential themes such as cleverness versus brute force, the consequences of violating hospitality norms, and divine retribution. It serves as a pivotal moment in 'The Odyssey,' illustrating how intellect can triumph over strength. Moreover, it reflects the complexities of human behavior, as both characters exhibit traits that lead to their ultimate fates: Odysseus's cunning allows him to escape while also setting off a chain reaction due to his pride.

Related terms

Cyclopes: Mythical giants with a single eye in the center of their forehead, known for their immense strength and craftsmanship, particularly in forging weapons for the gods.

Odyssey: An epic poem attributed to Homer that narrates the adventures of Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War, featuring numerous encounters with mythical creatures.

Xenia: The ancient Greek concept of hospitality that emphasizes the importance of generosity and respect towards guests, which is often violated in the stories involving Polyphemus.