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Describe 2 ways that Odysseus is guilty of hubris in Book 8.

User MattW
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Final answer:

Odysseus shows hubris in Book 8 by boastfully asserting his athletic superiority at the Phaeacian games and revealing his identity with excessive pride after his victory in an archery contest.

Step-by-step explanation:

Odysseus displays hubris, or excessive pride, in Book 8 of the Odyssey in two distinct ways. First, during the games the Phaeacians hold in his honor, Odysseus boasts about his athletic prowess after being taunted, confident that he can outperform all others despite being a stranger and a guest. Second, after securing victory in the archery contest, Odysseus reveals his identity boastfully to the Phaeacians, showing pride in his own reputation and past actions, despite the potential dangers of unveiling his identity to strangers.

Hubris is a common example of hamartia, a tragic flaw evident in characters of Ancient Greek tragedies. Greek Hero figures often draw the ire of the gods through their pride, and Odysseus is no exception. His actions in Book 8 demonstrate an overconfidence and a willingness to put his own glory above his safety and the respect due to his hosts.

User Glaand
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