Characterization in Tennysons Ulysses free essay sample

An analysis of Alfred Lord Tennysons Ulysses. This paper takes a different look at Homers creations redone by Tennyson in the Victorian Age. The author of this paper takes a look at the characterization of Ulysses which Tennyson envisages as a more contemporary, earthly man, whose own restlessness matches the restless nature of Victorian society. He also discusses Homers characterization of Odysseus as a favorite of the gods. Tennyson portrays further human qualities in Ulysses through his lust for glory. Unlike the immortal god-like Odysseus, Tennysons portrayal of Ulysses as aged and mortal is the clearest example of his humanity. Tennysons characterization of Ulysses brings a humanistic quality to Homers once god-like hero by depicting his earthen limitations of restlessness, selfishness, and lust for glory. The aged King portrayed by Tennyson in Ulysses resembles only a shadow of the great hero found in Homer. All of the god-like glory that set Odysseus apart and carried him through turmoil is brought to earth by Tennysons depiction of Ulysses human qualities. We will write a custom essay sample on Characterization in Tennysons Ulysses or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The former glory of Odysseus is recalled as a boast of greatness with the aid and direction of his gods absent. The reader discovers that however great Ulysses once was, he know possesses many of the same faults as ordinary men. The result is a human King facing death yet dreaming of glory.