The Role Of Odysseus Free Will In Homer's Odyssey

As Odysseus and Everett drift off their courses, fate aids the men by sending insightful guides to help them progress on their journey. The hero’s tend to stumble upon characters who’s convenient appearances can only be explained by destiny. In Everett’s case, fate delivers Tommy, a talented hitchhiker who sets Everett on the path to stardom. When Everett meets Tommy, he tells Everett he’s going to Tishamingo, and “a man there pays folks money to sing into a can” (Coens, O Brother, Where Art Thou?). Tommy’s advice, and also his exceptional guitar playing, give Everett quite a bit of money, and widespread fame that saves him in the end of the story, and without the help of fate would be unattainable. Similarly, fate sends Odysseus to Circe, the bewitching nymph that gives him vital
The lustrous goddess gives him detailed instructions on how to travel to the underworld and “consult the ghost of Tiresias, seer of Thebes” (Fagles 10.541). Circe’s information not only helps Odysseus to progress in his journey, but also saves him from certain death later on his quest. Likewise, when Odysseus finds himself lost, he has the good fortune of washing up on Phaeacia. The people of Phaeacia happen to be “men [who] excel the world at sailing” and welcome Odysseus (Fagles 7.124). The Phaeacians shelter Odysseus and shower him with gifts, but most importantly, they offer him an easy journey home, which is his ultimate goal. Unforeseen guides are crucial parts in both The Odyssey and O’ Brother, Where Art Thou, and provide salvation for both Odysseus