When describing the characters of Odysseus and Oedipus, Homer and Sophocles both avoid defining these men by typical physical characteristics such as stature or features distinctive facial features. Instead, these authors focus on the detail of specific physical wounds that function as embodiments of each character's identity. Parallel plots in the Odyssey and Oedipus Rex reveal the symbolic meaning of Odysseus' scar as well as that of Oedipus' swollen foot and gouged out eyes. In both works, the infliction of these wounds is essential to the fates of the characters, with the specific degree of personal involvement in the creation of these wounds functioning as a reflection of the amount of control each man has over his own life. Furthermore, Ulysses' scar and Oedipus' swollen foot, as signs and proof of their origin, allow others to recognize them. However, the true nature and meaning of these wounds, while symbolically similar, differ: for Odysseus, his scar is a key to redemption, while for Oedipus, his swollen foot and damaged eyes are inevitable signs of his cursed fate. , representative of his final destiny. destruction. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Throughout the Odyssey, Odysseus, known for his wit and intelligence, hides his identity in the hope that he can return to his home in Ithaca and take revenge on the uncouth suitors who torment his faithful wife and son . In doing so, he employs many disguises both on his own and with the divine aid of Athena; telling stories to those he meets on his travels, he also uses his oratory skills to create new characters for himself. The scar on his upper thigh, however, remains a constant throughout these physical and verbal metamorphoses as a sign of his true identity. When he enters the palace and is washed by his old nurse, Eurykleia, it is this scar that betrays his appearance as a beggar: “Now Odysseus was sitting by the fire, but suddenly he turned to the dark side; because he immediately thought in his heart that, as he touched him, he might notice his scar, and his whole story might come out. He approached and washed his master, and immediately recognized that scar, which the white-tusked boar had once inflicted on him” (19.389-394). After this surprising moment of recognition, the nurse recalls the story of Odysseus' name death and how he received the scar during a hunting trip. Etymologically Ulysses means "son of pain", and his scar rightly functions as a reminder of his origins: generated in a moment of pain, Ulysses nevertheless maintains the mark as a sign of value and true royalty. Furthermore, because he is aware of the implications of his scar, Odysseus is able to use it to his advantage, reclaiming his identity as the rightful king so he can regain his throne. Unlike Odysseus, Oedipus, who is unaware of the true meaning and nature of his wounds, begins the play blinded by the reality of his circumstances. Ironically, although his name itself means "swollen foot", Oedipus chooses to regard his wound as simply an insignificant and annoying reminder of the "old pain", and thus remains unaware of his true identity as the son of Jocasta and Laius: OEDIPUS. What made me suffer when you took me in your arms? MESSENGER. Your ankles should bear witness to this. OEDIPUS. Why do you talk about that old pain? MESSENGER. I untied you; the tendons of your feet were pierced and chained - OEDIPUS. My bands mi.