Odysseus


Character Source Material: Illiad, The (Epic Poem attributed to the Greek Poet, Homer)


Odysseus, the cunning king of Ithaca, is a tapestry woven from ambition, pragmatism, and a yearning for home. Groomed for leadership by his father, Laertes, and hardened by the tutelage of the trickster god Hermes, Odysseus possesses a mind as sharp as his spear. He's not simply a fierce warrior, but a strategist who thrives on crafting intricate plans and outwitting his opponents. Yet, beneath this intellectual prowess lies a yearning for his homeland, Ithaca, and his faithful wife Penelope. This internal conflict fuels his ambition – he craves not just victory in the Trojan War, but a chance to showcase his brilliance and secure a swift return home. Despite his resourcefulness, a mischievous streak flickers within him, evident in his willingness to bend the truth or employ deception when necessary. Odysseus is a hero forever grappling between the glory of war and the solace of home, a man who wields both wit and weaponry with equal mastery.


5 Factor Personality Summary for Odysseus

Trait Percentile Trait Disposition
Neuroticism 68.86 Average
Agreeableness 46.08 Average
Extraversion 28.74 Average
Conscientiousness 63.88 Average
Openness 90.04 High
personality chart
Link to full personality profile report.



5 Factor Personality Items and Responses for Odysseus

This section displays the detail item responses that were used to generate the above personality summary. The methodology for selecting the item responses for this fictional character involved using research from a generative artificial intelligence tool to summarize a descriptive response to a question related to each item. The research was reviewed and a judgement was made on the most appropriate response on that item. You can view an example script for collecting these responses (see: Script for Automated Five Factor Assessment)

Trait Item Item Response Item Score AI-Generated Research*
Openness Do not have a good imagination. Very Inaccurate 5

I would say this statement is Very inaccurate. Odysseus is well-known not only for his physical strength but, perhaps even more so, for his cunning and wit. His use of creative problem-solving and imaginative strategies throughout the poem — for example, coming up with the idea for the wooden horse to infiltrate Troy during the Trojan war, and using multiple disguises and plausible stories to trick his enemies — all point to a very strong imagination. Therefore, to state that Odysseus does not have a good imagination seems to misrepresent his character as portrayed in the text.

Openness Am not interested in abstract ideas. Moderately Inaccurate 4

I would rate this statement as 'Moderately inaccurate'. While Odysseus is predominantly portrayed as a cunning and strategic hero who employs both physical and intellectual methods to overcome challenges, the Odyssey does not explicitly show him as being uninterested in abstract ideas. Instead, his interest in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, which are inherently abstract concepts, features quite strongly throughout the series. Therefore, it can be argued that Odysseus is indeed interested in abstract ideas to some extent.

Openness Have difficulty understanding abstract ideas. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus seems to have no difficulty understanding abstract ideas. In fact, he is known for his intellectual capabilities and clever problem-solving skills, which often involve abstract thinking. For instance, it was his idea to build the infamous Trojan horse, which demonstrates an innovative and abstract solution to a complex problem. Therefore, it would not be accurate to suggest that he has difficulty with abstract ideas.

Openness Have a vivid imagination. Very Accurate 5

It's 'very accurate' to say he has a vivid imagination. Odysseus is known for his sharp intellect and cunning nature, which often forms the basis for his imaginative solutions to problems. For example, he concocts the Trojan Horse plan, a unique and imaginative strategy that leads to the downfall of Troy. Furthermore, his ability to craft convincing stories and disguises throughout his journey home further demonstrates his vivid imagination.

Neuroticism Seldom feel blue. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Evaluation: Moderately inaccurate. Explanation: It is shown that though he is resilient, resourceful and a strategic thinker, he also experiences a fair share of melancholy or 'feeling blue', especially when separated from his home and family for a long period. He displays moments of sorrow and yearns to return home, which is not in alignment with 'seldom feeling blue'. Consequently, the statement can be categorized as 'moderately inaccurate'.

Neuroticism Am relaxed most of the time. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus is not a character who can be described as relaxed most of the time. He is often in the state of conflict or struggle, requiring his mental alertness and physical strength. His journey home, as described in the Odyssey, is fraught with peril and challenges, leaving him constantly on edge. Even when he is home, he must plot and carry out the removal of unwelcome suitors vying for his wife. These circumstances certainly don't lend themselves to a relaxed state of mind or being. Hence, the statement or suggestion that Odysseus is usually relaxed would be moderately inaccurate.

Neuroticism Get upset easily. Moderately Inaccurate 2

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus is characteristically portrayed as being patient and wise, known for his strategic thinking and calm demeanor, especially in the face of adversity. He is often in stressful and dangerous situations, such as in encounters with mythological creatures and gods, yet he remains calm, uses his intellect to generate strategies, and does not let his emotional state override his judgement. Nevertheless, there are instances where he does show emotional turmoil like when he is held captive by the nymph Calypso, but these moments are normally triggered by significant events rather than minor annoyances or difficulties. Therefore, while it's not entirely inaccurate to say he gets upset, it is certainly not a defining or common trait for him.

Neuroticism Have frequent mood swings. Moderately Inaccurate 2

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus does show a range of emotions, from determination and bravery to despair and sadness, reflective of his long and challenging journey. However, these are not mood swings in a clinical sense as they are often tied to specific experiences or events. Furthermore, Odysseus is also often described as patient and strategic as he makes his way back home, managing his emotions despite hardships. However, it is important to note that reactions and behaviors can be interpreted differently based on reader's perspective or translation of the original texts.

Conscientiousness Make a mess of things. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus is known for his intelligence, eloquence, and versatility. He is a strategic planner who faces numerous challenges and always finds a way out. He is known for his leadership skills, bravery, and skill in overcoming obstacles. However, his journey back home after the Trojan War is filled with complications not purely attributable to his missteps but largely due to external forces including gods, monsters, and nature. There are instances where his curiosity and pride lead him into dangerous situations, but to generalize that he 'makes a mess of things' would be moderately inaccurate. Instead, his character demonstrates resilience, cunning, and a persistent drive to achieve his goals.

Conscientiousness Often forget to put things back in their proper place. Very Inaccurate 5

This question is 'very inaccurate'. This is based on analysis of Odysseus's character in the Greek epic poems where he is portrayed as structured, methodical, and strategic. The character Odysseus is depicted as very mindful and pays careful attention to detail - an example of this being his ability to devise the escape plan using the Trojan horse. He is rarely described as forgetful or careless, thus indicating that forgetting to put things back in their proper place is not characteristic of Odysseus. Therefore, the statement is very inaccurate.

Conscientiousness Like order. Moderately Accurate 4

Moderately accurate. Odysseus indeed shows traits of liking order, though perhaps not in an everyday, conventional sense. Odysseus appreciates strategies, structuring, planning ahead, and he often takes his time to ensure he is making correct decisions. However, this does not necessarily extend to a passion for orderliness in every element of life. Thus, describing him as liking order is moderately accurate but not fully encompassing of his complex personality.

Conscientiousness Get chores done right away. Moderately Inaccurate 2

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus is known for his intellect, strategic mind, and storytelling skills rather than his proactivity in chores. His journey back to Ithaca after the Trojan War takes him about ten years, during which he faces numerous challenges and delays. While these delays aren't necessarily his fault, they do suggest a pattern of postponement. However, it's crucial to remember that Odysseus is more focused on larger quests and adversities than everyday tasks. He does showcase a sense of duty and responsibility, but his tasks are more often than not of a heroic or adventuristic nature rather than domestic chores.

Agreeableness Am not interested in other people's problems. Moderately Inaccurate 4

My evaluation is 'moderately inaccurate'. Odysseus is often deeply involved in the problems of others, whether it be his crew members, citizens of Ithaca, or divine beings. As king of Ithaca, he has the responsibility to care for his people and their issues. Furthermore, throughout his journey home, he often stands up for his crew and tries to keep them safe despite numerous challenges.

However, it could be argued that Odysseus sometimes behaves selfishly and prioritizes his own objectives, such as rushing into situations without fully considering the potential consequences for his crew - a characteristic that contributes to their eventual deaths. Nevertheless, this doesn't necessarily indicate a lack of interest in other people's problems but rather reflects a character flaw in his judgement and decision-making ability. It's important to remember that ancient Greek heroes like Odysseus were often portrayed as complex figures rather than virtuous paragons.

Agreeableness Am not really interested in others. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Moderately inaccurate. Odysseus shows deep concern and loyalty to his family, friends, and crew throughout the narrative. He often motivates his crew and tries to keep them safe, showing a significant level of interest and care for others. However, it's important to note that he is primarily focused on his own journey home, which sometimes leads him to make decisions that are not in the best interests of those with him. This combination of traits makes the statement moderately inaccurate, as he does exhibit interest in others, but not consistently or unselfishly.

Agreeableness Feel others' emotions. Moderately Accurate 4

Moderately accurate. Odysseus is both a shrewd thinker and an empathetic individual. While there is no explicit indication in the epic poems about him feeling others' emotions in the sense of emotional contagion that we often refer to today, there are instances showing his understanding and concern about others' feelings. For instance, he displays empathy towards his men throughout their journey and is deeply grieved when they die. He also shows sensitivity towards his wife Penelope's suffering over his prolonged absence. This suggests that although Odysseus might not directly feel others' emotions, he is aware and does respond to them empathetically.

Agreeableness Sympathize with others' feelings. Moderately Accurate 4

Evaluation: Moderately Accurate. Explanation: Odysseus is often portrayed as sympathetic towards the feelings of others. This is evident from his interactions with people who have been through hardship, like the Phaeacians who have lost their city, and his own companions. However, Odysseus's sympathy can sometimes be subjective, varying based on the circumstances and the individuals involved – for instance, he has less sympathy for his enemies or those who pose threats to his journey. The complexity of his character and his tactical mindset often prioritizes practicality and survival which may overshadow his empathy. It is this balance that makes the evaluation 'moderately accurate.'

Extraversion Keep in the background. Very Inaccurate 5

Very inaccurate. Odysseus is a king and a hero who often takes center stage in the action. He frequently takes on leadership roles, for instance, he is a strategist during the Trojan War, leading his men on numerous adventures. His reputation for cunning and as a smooth talker (he was known for his rhetorical skills) also suggests a person comfortable in the limelight. In addition, he always yearns to return home and reclaim his throne, signifying a character who does not avoids positions of authority and visibility. Therefore, Odysseus does not prefer to keep in the background.

Extraversion Don't talk a lot. Moderately Inaccurate 4

Moderately Inaccurate. Odysseus is well-known for his speaking abilities. He is often referred to as 'wily,' 'cunning,' or 'eloquent' Odysseus, indicating that his strength lies in his intelligence and in his ability to talk himself out of difficult situations or talk others into helping him. His tale-telling to King Alcinous and the Phaeacians as well as his persuasive talks at various points in the story demonstrates his eloquence and talkativeness. However, it's also worth mentioning that Odysseus is not constantly talking. He knows when to keep quiet and observe, balancing his words with wisdom, showing that his talkativeness is not incessant or pointless.

Extraversion Talk to a lot of different people at parties. Moderately Inaccurate 2

My assessment would be 'moderately inaccurate'. Odysseus is recognized as social and cunning; however, the text does not particularly portray him engaging in active conversation with many individuals at parties. His interactions are more strategic and focused, often involving discussions with gods, enemies, or persons who could aid in his journey home. Parties, as we understand them today, don't really appear in the Homeric epics in the way they might in contemporary times. It's also important to remember that the interpretation of character behavior can depend on the translator's choice of words and nuances.

Extraversion Am the life of the party. Very Inaccurate 1

Very inaccurate. Odysseus is not typically depicted as 'the life of the party'. He is characterized as a wise, cunning, and strategic leader with strong perseverance and heroic qualities. His character is more focused on overcoming challenges, defeating enemies, and returning home to his family rather than indulging in party-like atmospheres. While he is known for his eloquent speech and can indeed hold attention when he chooses, his focus tends to be more on goals and plans than social enjoyment.

* AI-Generated Responses are text output captured from entering an item-related question for this character into a generative AI model such as Chat-GPT, Google Gemini, or Anthropic's Claude. For example, a question for the item "Like order" would be "Does <Character Name> like order?".