Odysseus (Greek: Ὀδυσσεύς, translit. Odysseus; Latin: Ulixes), also known by the Roman name Ulysses, is a legendary Greek king of Ithaca and the hero of Homer's epic poem the Odyssey. He was also a key participant in the Trojan War, as he is featured in Homer's other epic, the Iliad. Odysseus is most famous for his cunning intellect and his long, arduous journey home after the Trojan War, which took him ten years. In Hebrew, Odysseus is known as אודיסאוס (translit. Odisa'os). In Latin, he is referred to as Ulixes, which is the name used by the Roman poet Virgil in his epic, the Aeneid. The name Odysseus is derived from the Greek word odussomai, meaning "to hate" or "to be angry", which may reflect his role as a controversial and often contentious figure in Greek mythology. Throughout his adventures, Odysseus encounters various mythical creatures and faces numerous challenges, which test his wit, courage, and endurance. His journey is a classic example of the hero's journey, a common narrative structure in world mythology.
Legendary Greek king of Ithaca
In Greek and Roman mythology, Odysseus, also known by the Latin variant Ulysses, is a legendary Greek king of Ithaca and the hero of Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey. Odysseus also plays a key role in Homer's Iliad and other works in that same epic cycle.