Why is Odysseus an archetype?

The archetypal hero is one who is seen as a leader and often has a trait which defines them above all else. Odysseus was best known for his wit and cunning during the Trojan war and this earned him the name of a 'hero' (a mortal who possessed god-like powers or traits). In Homer's Odyssey Odysseus is rather arrogant and self-centered but he is the one leading his army along and taking charge.

Odysseus is considered an archetype because he embodies characteristics and experiences that are universally recognized and repeated across cultures and literature. He represents the hero's journey, facing challenges, overcoming obstacles, and ultimately achieving personal growth and transformation. Odysseus' cunning intelligence, bravery, and resilience make him a symbol of the human capacity for survival and perseverance in the face of adversity. His adventures, as chronicled in Homer's "The Odyssey," serve as a blueprint for countless other hero narratives, making him a timeless and enduring archetype.