Final answer:
Polyphemus, the Cyclops from Homer's 'The Odyssey', has justification for revenge against Odysseus, who exhibited hubris by invading Polyphemus' home and blinding him, reflecting a tragic flaw that led to his prolonged journey.
Step-by-step explanation:
In discussing which "villain" from Homer's The Odyssey is justified in seeking revenge against Odysseus, one can argue that Polyphemus, the Cyclops, has a strong case. Despite his fearsome appearance and actions, readers can muster sympathy for Polyphemus, considering Odysseus' trespass into his home and the blinding that followed.
Odysseus' encounter with Polyphemus reflects the Greek Hero's arrogance—a hamartia—that Sophocles would define as a flaw leading to his downfall. This is seen when Odysseus cannot resist bragging to Polyphemus about his true identity, which ultimately curses his journey home.
Unlike Oedipus, who accepts responsibility for his actions to maintain his moral and heroic status, Odysseus' pride causes him unnecessary trouble. Thus, readers can understand Polyphemus' desire for vengeance as a consequence of Odysseus' hubris.