Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer's Odyssey Throughout history, the world has seen many beautiful literary works such as Homer's epics, the Odyssey. This book is a standard by which all literary novels are compared. Symbolism permeates the pages, drawing the reader into the intriguing plot that includes twists and turns within the central theme. Additionally, the author intelligently uses imagery and diction to paint dramatic pictures in the reader's mind, building on the main themes. The book contains an engaging use of symbolism that makes the story more interesting and understandable. This magnetizes the reader into the book. "At the first sight of dawn, the great Alcinous left his bed, as did Odysseus, ravager of cities, relative of Zeus." (Homer, 79) In this quote, Odysseus is referred to as the relative of Zeus who is the supreme god. Here, the word kinsman is used as a symbol to represent Odysseus' strength and courage. He is so muscular that he has the honor of being called a relative of Zeus. Besides Zeus, there are many other gods mentioned in the book. Each god can be associated with one or another symbol. Zeus announces: "It is Poseidon, the girdle of the world, that is so intoxicating against him..." (6). This quote shows that Poseidon, the god of the sea and earthquakes, is called the world-girdle, which literally means world-shaker. Poseidon is given other aliases, including the earth shaker, which suit him not only because of his position, but also because of his nature, which is very short-tempered. The gripping plot includes deceptions and unexpected twists within the central theme, thus adding interest. After the Trojan War, the veterans returned home to their land in a......middle of paper......rils of a hero. (214) As seen from this quote, the words Homer uses, as sketched, create vividly graphic images in the reader's mind. The details of how Antinous is killed here help reinforce this theme that is exhibited throughout the novel. As shown above, there is good use of symbolism in the Odyssey to heighten the reader's interest. Furthermore, there are unexpected twists around the central theme that keep the reader on the edge of their seats. Finally, Homer ingeniously uses words to create stunning images that help one relate to the text and reveal and intensify the key themes described in the book. The Odyssey is clearly an exceptional piece of writing that will forever remain a classic. This epic is undoubtedly among the elite of books published over time.