1. Characteristics of an Epic Hero Example

2. KING
Odysseus is born the King of Ithica. As King, he is well known has a kingdom, a beautiful queen, and a son.

3. BATTLE OF TROY
Before his primary journey, he fought in the battle of Troy. During this war, ​he showed courage and cunning as he fought and defeated the Trojans.

4. MEDITERRANEAN SEA
While Odysseus​ struggles to get home, he made wide-ranging travels to different islands. He encountered many different races of people, gods, and Monsters.

5. DEFEATS THE CYCLOPS
During his time trapped in Polyphemus' cave, he devised a plan that showed his true cunning and strength. With Odysseus's plan, he was able​ to free his men from capture.

6. NAME IS KNOWN TO THE PHAEACIANS
Towards the end of his journey, ​he landed on the island of the Phaeacian's, who knew of King Odysseus and his struggle to go home. This aided him because they agreed to give him safe passage to Ithica.

7. NOT BRAGGART
Several times in his journey, Odysseus proved to be humble. Most notably when he went to the land of the dead to receive the prophecy to get home.

8. ENEMY IS POSEIDON
The major cause of Odysseus' struggle to return to Ithica came from the God Poseidon. Throughout his journey, Poseidon thwarted Odysseus as revenge for stabbing out the eye of the Cyclops Polyphemus.