Leah Shapiro

In book 5 of The Odyssey, Homer utilizes repetition to reinforce Odysseus’ control of his own fate despite the Gods’ interference. A god named Leucothea approaches Odysseus and questions the root of Posiedon’s hatred. Even at this first encounter, she determines Odysseus’ individuality by stating “why is the god of earthquakes so dead set against you?/ strewing your way with such a crop of troubles!/ But he can’t destroy you, not for all his anger./ Jut do as I say. You seem no fool to me.” (page 163, 373-376) Furthermore, the statement “But he can’t destroy you” concretes Odysseus’ independence. She continues on to command Odysseus to take certain actions, constantly repeating the word “you.” Though this repetition may seem insignificant, the recurrence shows the reader that Odysseus can control his own actions. Though Inos somewhat commands Odysseus “But once you grasp the mainland with your hands/ untie it quickly, throw it into the wine-dark sea,” (page 163,384-385) Odysseus still has to perform the actions by himself. Finally, the last line of the passage most notably interlaces repetition when Inos says “but you, you turn your head away!” (page 163, 385) This statement shows that Odysseus can not only control his actions, but also his “head”, which could be taken literally, as a body part, or figuratively, as his mental state.