Voyages to Re-creation

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

2003

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | Classical Literature and Philology | Classics | English Language and Literature

Advisor

Scott Richardson, Modern and Classical Languages and Literature

Abstract

Odysseus and Ishmael use the experiences they have on their voyages to recreate themselves. By looking at Odysseus and Ishmael side by side, a great understanding evolves of the changes that occurred in them. Odysseus uses events and encounters with people to come to an understanding on how to live his life. Similarly, Ishmael uses the people around him to see what he wishes to gain in his own personality, as well as what he does not want to become. Each feels lost in the world, but through the journey they are able to relearn what is important in their lives and to become the men they wish to be. Their journeys teach them how to live a life they will enjoy without the support of their past.

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