To what extent does this description accurately portray why Odysseus's men meet their fate at the end of Book 12? Could Odysseus have saved them from disaster, or were the "blind fools" doomed from the start?

Answer 1

The fate of Odysseus's men at the end of Book 12 of Homer's "Odyssey" is a complex interplay of their choices, Odysseus's leadership, and the larger themes of fate and human agency.

1. Accurate portrayal of their demise: The description of Odysseus's men as "blind fools" captures their tragic flaw—impulsivity and a lack of restraint. Despite Odysseus's prior warnings, particularly about the dangers posed by the Sirens and the cattle of Helios, his men succumb to their desires. Their decision to ignore the injunction against eating Helios's cattle stems from greed and defiance, demonstrating a willful disregard for the consequences of their actions. This disregard signals a failure of discipline and wisdom, ultimately leading to their destruction.

2. Could Odysseus have saved them?: Odysseus does take measures to guide and protect his men. He listens to Circe and the Sirens and shares that knowledge with his crew. However, his ability to control their actions is limited. Once they are confronted with temptation—particularly regarding the cattle—their response reflects a collective weakness rather than a failure on Odysseus's part as a leader. His attempts to exercise control are thwarted by their own desires. This dynamic suggests that while Odysseus's leadership is critical, the fate of the men also hinges on their choices.

3. Were they doomed from the start?: In terms of fate, one could argue that the men were somewhat doomed from the outset. The notion of fate in the "Odyssey" operates on the idea that certain outcomes are inevitable, and the men, through their actions, align themselves with this fate. Their initial choices lead them into a series of challenges that culminate in their demise. In this sense, they reflect a tragic archetype; they are doomed by their inability to heed warnings and their susceptibility to temptation.

Ultimately, while Odysseus could possibly have enacted more stringent measures or found ways to inspire greater caution among his men, their fate is heavily influenced by their own weaknesses and the inexorable workings of fate. They are victims of both their desires and the inevitable consequences of their actions in a world where divine forces and personal choice coexist.