American Traditional tattoos, also known as Old School tattoos, have a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when sailors shared stories of “tattooed men” they had seen in Polynesia, Japan, and Indonesia. These tattoos, characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and iconic designs like roses, anchors, and eagles, have become a time-honored tradition in America.
The American tattoo tradition began during the American War of Independence, particularly among sailors who sought to mark their achievements. James Cook brought body art and the word tattoo (originally spelled tatau) to the mainland, with C. H. Fellowes being arguably the first known figure in American tattooing.
American tattoo culture has been shaped by various influences, including Native American tribes, European settlers, sailor culture, and circus performers. After the American Revolution, sailors cultivated a culture of tattooing for several years. Photographer Chris Rainier travels the globe to explore the true history behind traditional tattoos and how artists like Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins built their reputation. Odyssey Tattoo Studio was established in 2018 with the goal of providing quality tattoos in a relaxed atmosphere. By the 19th century, almost 90% of United States sailors had tattoos, and mariners continue to wear them today.
In conclusion, American Traditional tattoos have a rich history and are celebrated in numerous studios across the country.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| The Art of American Traditional Tattoos | Explore the history, key components, and tattoo inspiration for American traditional tattoos. | thehonorablesociety.com |
| Tattoos Have A Story | Tattoos tell a story. Every single one, be it just one you get on a whim or on a stupid, drunken night or even one that you’ve put a lot of thought into. | theodysseyonline.com |
📹 Everything you need to know to read Homer’s “Odyssey” – Jill Dash
View full lesson: ed.ted.com/lessons/everything-you-need-to-know-to-read-homer-s-odyssey-jill-dash An encounter with a …
What Is The History Of American Trad Tattoos?
The American Traditional tattoo style began emerging in the late 1800s, primarily influenced by American sailors who encountered Polynesian and Japanese tattooing during their expeditions in the Pacific. Characterized by bold black outlines and a limited color palette, this style features motifs like anchors, compasses, hearts, roses, and swallows, often reflecting sailor traditions. Known also as Old School tattoos, these designs contrast with the modern "new school" tattoos that explore a broader range of colors and techniques.
American Traditional tattoos have become a significant aspect of American culture, expressing personal values and experiences while also connecting to American history and identity. The style has a storied history, gaining prominence in the 1930s, although its roots can be traced back to sailors in the early 1900s. The two-dimensional art style of these tattoos makes them both distinctive and complex, appealing to many individuals seeking a timeless and visually striking design.
Furthermore, Neo Traditional tattoos later emerged as an evolution of the original style, blending traditional motifs with contemporary tattoo techniques. By understanding the origins, characteristics, and symbolism of American Traditional tattoos, individuals can better appreciate the cultural significance and heritage behind these iconic designs, which continue to be popular today.
What Is The Oldest Culture With Tattoos?
Before Ötzi emerged from the ice, the earliest definitive evidence of tattoos came from Egyptian mummies dating back to the era of the great pyramids over 4, 000 years ago. Various cultures, including ancient Siberian nomads, Indigenous Polynesians, Nubians, Native South Americans, and Greeks, engaged in tattooing for diverse reasons such as protection from evil, expressions of love, and indicators of societal status.
Notably, the tattoo of a Sudanese woman, excavated in 2005 but revealed through a CT scan in 2014, depicted a symbol representing the Archangel Michael, showcasing the significance of tattoos in historical contexts.
Previously, the Chinchorro culture's mummy from present-day Chile was believed to possess the oldest known tattoos, characterized by a mustache-like arrangement of black dots under the nose. However, this notion has been dispelled, and it is now widely recognized that Ötzi, the Tyrolean Iceman who perished around 3250 B. C. and was preserved beneath an Alpine glacier, holds the title for the world’s oldest tattoos. Ötzi bears 61 tattoos on his body, indicating the long-standing tradition of tattooing across various civilizations.
The ancient practice of tattooing, which dates back millennia, has been substantiated through findings of tattoos on mummified skin. In the Mentawai culture, for instance, tattooing—referred to as titi—has been an integral part since approximately 1500 BCE, passed down through generations. Tattoo artists use both traditional hand-tapped methods and modern machines to create intricate designs.
The history of tattooing extends to Neolithic times, with evidence of tattoos discovered on well-preserved remains, including Ötzi, whose tattoos date between 3370 and 3100 B. C. Some sources debate whether the oldest tattoos originate from the Chinchorro culture in South America or belong to Ötzi, with scholarly articles acknowledging both claims.
Moreover, ancient Chinese texts suggest that tattooing was practiced as far back as 2000 B. C. The Greeks employed tattoos from the 5th century for communication among spies, while Romans marked slaves and criminals with tattoos. The rich tapestry of tattoo history reveals its deep cultural significance across diverse societies.
Where Did Tattoos Come From?
Native American tribes, the Ainu people of Japan, and various Polynesian cultures have developed distinctive tattoo traditions that reflect identity, spiritual beliefs, and social status. Alongside tattoos, body piercings also boast a rich history as an early form of body modification. Evidence suggests tattooing has ancient roots, with some of the oldest tattoos dating back to between 3370 BC and 3100 BC. The remarkable discovery of Otzi the Iceman in 1991 revealed tattoos on his mummified skin, solidifying the art form's historical significance.
Military influence has notably shaped tattoo culture in America, with the first recognized tattoo artist, Martin Hildebrandt, tattooing patriotic symbols on sailors and soldiers since1846. Yet, the emergence of "Tattooed Freaks" within popular culture created a duality in public perception. Historical records show that tattooing was prevalent across numerous cultures, including ancient Greeks, who utilized tattoos by the 5th century for clandestine communication.
In Japan, the practice is believed to extend back to the Paleolithic era. Similarly, excavations of Egyptian mummies, particularly female ones, reveal the long-standing tradition of tattooing in ancient Egypt, coinciding with the age of the pyramids.
The term "tattoo" likely derives from the Marquesan word "tatu," referring to a puncture or skin marking, or from related Polynesian languages. Over millennia, the tattooing technique and tools have advanced significantly. Evidence of tattooing dates back to the Neolithic period, confirmed by mummified remains and archaeological artifacts. Notable findings indicate that tattooing may have been practiced during the Upper Paleolithic period in Europe.
In addition to the Greeks, the Romans historically used tattoos to mark criminals and slaves, demonstrating the cultural implications of tattooing throughout time. Records indicate that ancient Egyptians predominantly engaged in tattooing practices among women for approximately 1, 000 years. Latin America's Pre-Columbian civilizations, such as the Mayans and Aztecs, are also recognized for their tattoo practices.
Recent excavations revealed the world's oldest figurative tattoos on Egyptian mummies dating between 3351 and 3017 BCE, showcasing how the art spread through international trade to places like Crete, Greece, and Arabia, while there are indications of tattooing in ancient China. The artistic expression of tattooing, believed to have originated around 5000 BC, remains significant across various cultures globally, reflecting deep-rooted meanings and personal narratives. Tools designed specifically for tattooing have been uncovered in prehistoric sites across Europe, indicating the craft’s extensive history.
Who Invented Tattoos And Why?
Tattoos have been a significant form of body art and cultural expression since Neolithic times, evident through archaeological findings of mummified skin and ancient artifacts. Various ancient cultures, including Siberian nomads, Indigenous Polynesians, Nubians, Native South Americans, and Greeks, practiced tattooing for diverse reasons: to ward off evil, express love, denote social status, reflect religious beliefs, serve as adornments, or act as forms of punishment.
The oldest known tattoo evidence is from Ötzi the Iceman, dated between 3370 and 3100 BCE, who was discovered in 1991 in the Alps. The evolution of tattoos is also documented in artifacts from as early as 5000 BCE, with Neolithic clay figures revealing potential early tattoo marks.
Modern tattoo practices trace their origins to 19th-century New York City, where Martin Hildebrandt established the first professional tattoo parlor. During this time, the European perception of tattoos began shifting, influenced by travelers like Captain James Cook, who, during his explorations of the South Pacific, introduced the English word "tattoo" while noting indigenous body modifications.
Tattooing’s significance varied across cultures; for instance, the ancient Greeks employed tattoos in the 5th century for secretive communication among spies. In contrast, the Romans used them to mark criminals and slaves. Indigenous cultures, such as those in South America, maintained rich tattoo traditions that the 19th-century German ethnologist Karl von den Steinen believed were deeply rooted in social customs.
Technological advancements have played a crucial role in the evolution of tattooing techniques. The invention of the pneumatic tattoo machine by artist Carson Hill in California marked a significant development, allowing for greater precision and complexity in tattoo art. Historically, tattoos have reflected societal acceptance and the shifting perceptions of those with body art. Tattoos, initially associated with marginalized groups and punishment, have undergone a cultural transformation, influencing their acceptance today.
The historical narrative of tattoos spans centuries, with documented practices across various global cultures. Each culture has its unique motifs and meanings, from cult symbols to intricate designs such as horse motifs found on the remains of ancient leaders. Today, tattoos continue to bear symbolic weight for many, embodying personal, cultural, and spiritual meanings that traverse time.
In conclusion, while the origins of tattooing are ancient and diverse, tattoo art remains a prevalent and continually evolving form of self-expression and cultural identity, reflecting the rich tapestry of human history.
What Is The Theme Of American Traditional Tattoos?
American Traditional tattoos, also known as Old School tattoos, are easily identifiable by their bold black outlines and a limited color palette, steeped in rich history and distinct symbolism. Originating in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, this tattoo style reflects significant themes such as love, bravery, and rebellion. Common motifs include hearts, roses, anchors, eagles, and skulls, each carrying unique meanings. For instance, a heart symbolizes love and passion, often accompanied by a banner or name, while roses represent beauty and romance.
American Traditional tattoos are noted for their ties to sailor culture, featuring nautical themes that denote stability and adventure. Anchors embody strength, while skulls can symbolize mortality, courage, and protection, reflecting the rugged nature of early American life. Eagle tattoos, on the other hand, not only represent America but also signify honor, intelligence, and prowess.
The style is known for being rebellious and bold, with artists incorporating their personal flair while adhering to key elements that define the genre. This has created a timeless form of expression ultimately linked to themes of freedom and the desire to break societal norms.
Each design within the American Traditional tattoo repertoire has its own story and symbolic weight, making them not just mere decorations but reflections of individual beliefs and experiences. The consistent use of recognizable imagery—such as skulls, eagles, and roses—creates a powerful language of symbols that tattoo enthusiasts cherish.
Overall, American Traditional tattoos celebrate motifs that resonate deeply within American culture, showcasing themes related to love, nature, courage, and rebellion. As an art form, they reflect significant historical influences while continuously evolving to maintain their relevance and emotional impact in contemporary tattoo culture.
What Do Tattoos Symbolize In American Culture?
American traditional tattoos have evolved significantly, encompassing a diverse range of meanings and subjects. This tattoo style symbolizes not only rebellion but also themes of identity, freedom, and individuality. While historically associated with counterculture—such as sailors and bikers—tattoos have transcended these origins to serve as powerful forms of self-expression and personal identification. Each design in American traditional tattoos carries specific meanings based on the imagery used. For instance, an anchor can represent stability, while a rose may symbolize beauty or love.
The cultural significance of tattoos in America varies through different societies and time periods. American traditional tattoos, defined by bold lines and vibrant colors, embody a deep connection to the culture and history of the nation. They serve as expressions of personal values and experiences, intertwined with American identity. Similarly, native American tattoos have been used for centuries to depict identity, life events, beliefs, and spiritual visions, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots.
Specific motifs in American traditional tattoos also communicate nuanced meanings. Predatory animals, like bears, symbolize strength and virility, with many modern adaptations incorporating unique creatures that resonate with contemporary themes. Designs featuring iconic symbols, such as eagles and military insignia, reflect historical bravery and masculinity, pivotal traits in early American culture. Lady head tattoos are a prominent example, often associated with femininity, beauty, and independence.
Ultimately, the meanings behind American traditional tattoos have grown and adapted to reflect contemporary realities while paying homage to historical traditions. They act as a canvas for storytelling, encapsulating personal narratives, cultural heritage, and evolving human experiences. The tattoos bridging various themes—from rebellion and patriotism to personal growth—demonstrate their role as significant forms of self-expression.
Importantly, tattoos in America have also faced societal perceptions that label them as symbols of low class or deviance. Yet, they continue to resonate deeply with individuals, portraying a sense of individuality that transcends past limitations. This ongoing dynamic suggests that tattoos are more than mere designs; they are transformative expressions that highlight the complexity and diversity within American culture.
As tattoos remain an enduring part of American identity, they continue to be embraced for their profound symbolism. American traditional tattoos encapsulate a broad spectrum of meanings that evolve with cultural shifts, marking a deep-rooted connection to both personal and collective stories. In essence, these tattoos are windows into the myriad beliefs, values, and experiences of those who wear them.
Why Were Tattoos Illegal In The US?
Tattooing has a complex history in the United States, marked by significant bans and shifting public perceptions. In New York City, tattooing was outlawed from 1961 until 1997 due to health concerns and societal notions deeming it "vulgar." Meanwhile, Norfolk, Virginia imposed a ban from 1950 to 2006 for similar reasons. European settlers brought negative views of tattoos to America, associating them with paganism and conservative religious beliefs. Despite the legal restrictions, artists like Thom deVita continued tattooing illegally, demonstrating resilience against the ban.
No federal law governs tattooing in the U. S., allowing varying regulations at state and local levels. For decades, the tattoo industry was stifled by regulations framed as health concerns, leading to accusations that authorities misused public health as a reason to suppress a disfavored practice. Nevertheless, public attitudes toward tattoos began to shift dramatically over the years. According to a Harris poll, approximately one in three American adults now have a tattoo.
In Massachusetts, tattooing faced a ban for 38 years until courts ruled the prohibition unconstitutional in 2000, siding with the ACLU that tattooing is an art form protected under the free expression clause of the First Amendment. This milestone contributed to changing perceptions regarding tattooing across the nation.
While New York City’s ban was lifted in 1997, other states had their restrictions. For instance, Oklahoma banned tattooing in 1963, leading residents to travel to neighboring states to get tattoos. Some laws specified that only doctors could perform tattoos, but the practicality of this stipulation was questionable.
Overall, the tide has turned on tattooing; once stigmatized and illegal in many places, it has become widely accepted in contemporary society. The trajectory from prohibition to acceptance underscores the evolving views surrounding this form of artistic expression.
What Are The Different Types Of American Traditional Tattoo Designs?
American Traditional tattoos are characterized by their bold lines and limited color palette, often incorporating iconic designs such as anchors, compasses, hearts, roses, swallows, and skulls. Emerging in the United States, this genre of tattooing, also known as "old school tattoos," "classic tattoo style," or "sailor tattoos," became widely recognized among sailors who used these designs to mark personal milestones and seek good luck. While early tattoos largely featured pin-up girls, flags, and eagles, the scope of American Traditional tattoos has expanded over time.
Initially dominated by men, this tattoo style gradually gained popularity among women as well, leading to a broader range of designs. Compass tattoos, for instance, symbolize navigation, adventure, and perseverance, reflecting the essential role of the compass in sailors' journeys. The bright, vibrant nature of American Traditional tattoos remains a signature aspect, with many designs depicting flowers, female figures, weapons, and nautical themes.
The aesthetic is not only visually appealing but deeply rooted in symbolism and meaning. Each tattoo expresses themes of love, loyalty, adventure, or protection, resonating with ideals of patriotism and bravery. Iconic symbols such as nautical stars, roses, and the defiant eagle serve as enduring motifs in this style.
The rich history of American Traditional tattoos is intertwined with the works of legendary tattoo artists like Bert Grimm and Sailor Jerry, who influenced its development. Traditional tattoo "flash," or pre-drawn designs, has also emerged from the sheets of these pioneers, showcasing various motifs like panthers, tigers, and sails.
Overall, American Traditional tattoos are a celebration of artistry that balances boldness with depth, revealing stories and histories through saturated designs that complement all skin tones. This exploration into the classic world of American Traditional tattoos offers insight into a genre defined by its visual appeal, cultural significance, and the powerful narratives each design embodies. The enduring popularity and evolving nature of this tattoo style speak to its timeless relevance in the realm of body art.
What Are The Rules Of American Traditional Tattoos?
American Traditional Tattoos, also known as Old School or Sailor Tattoos, are characterized by bold, clean black outlines and a flat, 2D appearance similar to drawings. They typically feature highly saturated primary colors, including red, green, yellow, and black, with minimal shading. The style has its roots in maritime tradition, where common designs marked sailors’ milestones or brought good luck, making it easily identifiable.
The hallmark of American Traditional tattoos is their adherence to specific guidelines passed down through generations of tattoo artists. While each artist may infuse their own flair, certain rules define the style, such as:
- Thick and bold outlines
- Solid and vibrant colors
- Simple and uncomplicated designs, steering clear of intricate details
- An absence of three-dimensional effects, making the tattoos look more like illustrations than realistic images.
Despite originally appealing more to men, American Traditional tattoos have increasingly found favor with women as well. The visually striking nature of these tattoos has made them a prominent genre in the tattoo world, celebrated for their historical significance and enduring aesthetic.
These tattoos symbolize freedom and individuality, often historically serving as outward expressions of rebellion against conventional societal norms. They emerged from a context of maritime wanderlust, evolved through world events like the World Wars, and have transitioned into contemporary counter-culture movements, cementing their lasting impact.
A typical American Traditional tattoo will primarily utilize the colors red, yellow, green, and black, with some designs incorporating blue and purple, though grey shading and white are avoided. The tattoos often feature various animals, symbols, and references to American culture, embodying a rich history that can add personal significance to the wearer.
In summary, American Traditional tattoos are marked by their bold lines, vibrant primary colors, and clean, simple artistry. They carry historic weight while remaining a contemporary choice for those looking to express their individuality through tattoos, making them timeless in the realm of body art.
📹 The Odyssey Explained In 25 Minutes Best Greek Mythology Documentary
Having constructed the Trojan Horse, Odysseus had ensured victory against all odds and proved his reputation as the most …
As I have just finished reading this work. My random thoughts, in the context of this article, are these: *It is oft said, but barely half true to say that Odysseus’ troubled path home was because he blinded the cyclops, Polyphemus. While it is true that Poseidon, his dad, raised storms a number of times, he only knew the name of the perpetrator, because Polyphemus told him. Odysseus initially told Polyphemus that his name was “Noman”, but rashly and advised otherwise by his own men, blurted out his real name, after having escaped, just boast to, and taunt, the now very angry Polythemus. Were it not for that, Poseidon would not have known whom to assail. Mistake #1. Then only in the next chapter, Aeolus sends his ships by favorable wind, to within sight of Ithaca, by wrapping all the unfavorable winds in bags. But Odysseus men let them out of the bag at which they were all sent back off into the sea. Mistake #2. It is more correct to say that Odysseus own boastful arrogance caused his troubles, rather than the blinding of Polyphemus per se. *”Xenia” may well have been contemporaneously considered a wise hedge against insulting gods in human form, but sometimes such tales are just grand stories of convenience, masking a more practical reason. In this case, consider that Greece is a large area with a vast number of islands and only partially connected city states. I think anyone can readily see that travelling around Greece, would have presented significant problems remaining fed and provisioned, especially when there was alot of sailing involved.
They didn’t just welcome guests because they feared they might be gods in disguise. Zeus was also the protector of beggars and visitors, so they were obligated to offer a beggar what they asked for and welcome strangers into their house, in fear that Zeus might punish them or send them bad luck. Xenia (Ξενία, it means friendship in ancient greek) was passed down from generation to generation, meaning the bond of the host and the visitor would be passed down to their children.
I just feel Indian Mythology infact is as detailed and profound as Greek mythology. But surprised that internationally under rated. I would love to Research on the underlying reasons for this. And if you are reading this and you just Believe in the joy of stories,do check out Indian myths while I go on to explore Greek for now😍🥰
I would suggest getting someone who knows something about the Odyssey to write the script for such a talk. What we have here are scraps of fact in a framework of misconception about the poem and the poet. Just a few examples. Homer – to give the poet a name – thinks he is telling listener about how a clever man managed to get home. The poem starts at the beginning of the story – on Calypso’s island – and recounts how he made it to an island where he received help. There he recited the story of his wanderings which is not what the story is about. The wanderings are a background to the man which illustrate his cleverness. The man gets home, finds his kingdom about to be taken over, and, with the help of his son and a few people loyal to him, how he manages to regain his rightful place. Aristotle gives roughly the same summary. The Iliad is not about the Trojan War. It is about an event which cover approximately six ekes in the 10th year of the war. There was a quarrel between the chief commander of the Greek forces and one of the sub-commanders. Because of the quarrel, the offended person withdraws from the fighting – and the Greeks begin to lose heavily – but is persuaded to return to battle after his close friend is killed. He kills the man who killed his friend and humiliates the man’s family – the king of Troy – by not allowing the body to be buried properly. The killed man’s father comes to the Greek man, and begs him to return the body, The Greek man does so, covered with shame at his behaviour.
It is interesting how gods disguised as humans wandering the earth repeats a lot in European and Indo-Arian myth. Like Odin the Wanderer was very similar in the north, we had people here in the north who were like Irish travelers (tatter) and would ask to sleep in your barn, and courtesy would be to let them because they could be Odin in disguise.
Don’t be discourage by this article calling the Odyssey a “24-book epic”…while it is true that sometimes a chant would be called a “book” depending on the edition, and there are 24 chants in the Odyssey, it is not as massive as shown in the animation. Each chant can be read calmly in 1 to 2 hours tops and the whole book is a single tome, not 24 massive books
A subredditor asked why Rome as an empire has influenced the modern world more than the Greek empire, and it sparked a very healthy discussion arguing the case on both sides. One such debate in particular claimed that under no circumstances is Rome linguistically more influential than the Greeks, and Roman letters are not in use. Unfortunately, I am no expert in this field despite having a background in literature and linguistics. So I’m throwing the question again — especially in regards to the claim that The Odyssey was “composed before the Greek alphabet appeared in 8th century BCE.” To my knowledge, “Homeric Greek” is the name given to the letters that appear in the epics, and they themselves are derivative of the Mycenaean Linear B text. I’m asking two things for those who’re more resourceful in this than I am: 1. Is the modern world (particularly modern English) more influenced by the language of the Roman Empire than the Greek Empire, and if so how? And 2. Did the period after the fall of the Mycenaean empire (the so-called ‘Dark Ages’ wherein Homer’s epics and indeed the Trojan War Cycle were believed to be based on) not have its own written language? If we place Homer’s epics at a time before “The Little Iliad” or any of the other entries in the Trojan War Cycle, then historically it would’ve been written at a point in time when written languages already in existence in Greece, and also likely to have been used for liturgical and administrative needs. Thanks to anyone who took the time to read this, and doubly thanks in advance to those who take the time to shed some light into this debate.
this is so strangely similar to hinduism. where the king of devas is Indra who happens to be the deva of rain and lighting. and how hindu ancien5 texts are all poetries like the Gita to be recited. and how we hindus have a saying ‘athithi devo bhava’ meaning ‘guests are God’ being hindus too like what she said, offered hospitality to whomever that came to their door.
Does anyone know that in India there is a sacred literary text known as the Mahabharata? Talking about Mahabharata, here are a few pieces of information on Mahabharata? “The Mahabharata or Mahābhārata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the Ramayana. The Mahabharata is an epic narrative of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and the Pandava princes. It also contains philosophical and devotional material, such as a discussion of the four “goals of life” or purusharthas (12.161). Among the principal works and stories in the Mahabharata are the Bhagavad Gita, the story of Damayanti, an abbreviated version of the Ramayana, and the Rishyasringa, often considered as works in their own right. Traditionally, the authorship of the Mahabharata is attributed to Vyasa. There have been many attempts to unravel its historical growth and compositional layers. The oldest preserved parts of the text are thought to be not much older than around 400 BCE, though the origins of the epic probably fall between the 8th and 9th centuries BCE. The text probably reached its final form by the early Gupta period (c. 4th century CE).The title may be translated as “the great tale of the Bhārata dynasty”. According to the Mahabharata itself, the tale is extended from a shorter version of 24,000 verses called simply Bhārata. The Mahabharata is the longest known epic poem and has been described as “the longest poem ever written”. Its longest version consists of over 100,000 shloka or over 200,000 individual verse lines (each shloka is a couplet), and long prose passages.
Funny thing is that when people think of The Iliad and it centering on the Trojan War, they automatically assume that it depicts the war in its entirety, when not really, no, because its conclusion is mentioned in The Odyssey. It’s one of those things that a movie can get away with because it would be rather anticlimactic if a movie on the Trojan War ended before the war itself wrapped up with the fall of Troy. Same idea with The Odyssey in terms of how it’s usually adapted into a movie or a mini series like in 1997. Basically there’s more to those stories than the books let on.
Um, there seems to be a some heavy misleading at the end of this article. They present this 24 book epic as if the story is actually 24 full-length books long. At least for my copy of The Odyssey, the “books” are more like chapters. I’m not sure if the article creators did this to make story seem more imposing, high-brow or what.
This is a great article, but at the end, when it says “24 book epic” and shows a pile of books it’s not really accurate. The odissey is 24 chapters long, wich in latin are called “liber” translated as book, thus this name, but it’s not a monumental 24 book story as we understand it today, it’s actually a single 24 chapter book. In greek the word used for this chapters translates as chant or song, since poetry around the time of its composition was meant to be sung, sometimes accompanied by a musical instrument.
Read and rearranged through multiple authors? Reminds me of Marques de Sade’s attempt to write his last book in the asylum, all inpatients didn’t know to read and write, and the nurse knew how to, but her room was 5 cells across de Sade’s. They then arranged for a way to convey the words to the nurse, de Sade would whisper a line into his mate’s ears through a hole in the wall, and his mate would whisper it to the guy on the next cell, and from there until the line would reach the nurse’s cell. The result of which the line would be so mutilated. But hey! A deemed-insane writer’s words filtered through the brains of five maniacs with different mental illnesses? It’d make it nothing if not better!
I am saddened and disappointed about the fact that people welcomed Strangers not out of love, curiousity, joy or empathy, but out of fear, paranoya, worry and sorrow. And do not forget the higher symbolism of the fear for the gods. This world was meant for Humans I will never stop believing that, but Humans feel so powerless they may just be ‘property’ of higher forces whims after all. This stuff is very up to Date still. Science and Medicine are just one way to battle that.
Actually Xenia was not so common, and its uniqueness comes not from the premise shown in the article, but from its rarity. Ancient Greece was extremelly inhospitable to strangers and travellers, both by the dangers of the journey (with rampant brigand activity) and by the greeks inherent xenophobia, even with each other: if you were a stranger you would be regarded as a spy at best, and for a long time they were put under the authority of local polemarch archons, tasked with the defense of the polis, and that’s much later than Homer’s supposed times, during the “Dark Centuries”, a much less safe age. The Xenia was, in thruth, a link between two aristocratic families (the only ones who could and/or would travel) to ensure a safe time in each others city of residence, and to lower weapons in case of meeting each other in an armed engagement.
A very good article, however I have to argue with “The point of Odyssey is never get wrath of Gods” part. There are a lot of reasons for this, for the book tells about various aspects of human life. But if a point is to be made about Gods by using Odyssey, I can tell that both Illiad and Odyssey indeed show that Gods & Goddesses can act very unreasonably. They can just curse someone for being beautiful or honest. So I assume these two works have very honest approach to nature. There is no logic in the deeds of nature.
Syrens were not half women half fishes!!! That is Nordic style!! In ancient Greece syrens were half-women half-birds (as on jar : britishmuseum.org/collectionimages/AN00007/AN00007497_001_l.jpg?width=304)!! “Sirens were believed to combine women and birds in various ways. In early Greek art, Sirens were represented as birds with large women’s heads, bird feathers and scaly feet. Later, they were represented as female figures with the legs of birds, with or without wings, playing a variety of musical instruments, especially harps. ” .”According to Ovid (Metamorphoses V, 551), the Sirens were the companions of young Persephone. They were given wings by Demeter to search for Persephone when she was abducted. However, the Fabulae of Hyginus has Demeter cursing the Sirens for failing to intervene in the abduction of Persephone.”
The usual despicable propaganda against Greece and the Greeks. The Greek alphabet was not imported from somewhere, it was created by the Greeks around 8,000 years ago. There is evidence that can be inspected and studied in several Mouseia around Greece. just ask any Archaiologist in Greece. Call or write to any Greek Colsulate or Embassy.
Thanks for perusal! 😊Remember to Like & Subscribe if you enjoyed the article and click the Bell Icon to never miss an upload. Thanks to Masterworks for sponsoring todays article. Click on the link where you can invest in iconic artworks by artists like Banksy & Monet: masterworks.art/thelifeguide Timestamps can be found below: Timestamps 📽 Intro: 0:00 The Odyssey 1:21 The Lotus Eaters 2:53 The Cyclops 3:47 Aeolus 7:35 The Laestrygonians 9:14 Circe 9:58 The Underworld 12:24 The Sirens 13:17 Scylla and Charybdis 16:38 The Cattle of the Sun 17:54 Calypso 19:42 The Phaeacians 21:18 The Suitors 24:17
25 minutes is not nearly enough time to summarize the Odyssey. As a Greek who grew up with this story and its brother (the Iliad) as bedtime stories, you forgot to mention one of my favourite moments in the epic. When all the suitors are dead, Penelope is still not convinced that the man before her is her husband. Can you blame her? The man had freakin Athene by his side, a literal goddess, disguising him with her divine powers. So, intelligent and crafty as Penelope was, she asked Odysseus a trick question, to see if he was truly who he claimed to be. She asked him if he could move their bed. Hearing this, Odysseus started weeping. You see, the bed of the King & Queen of Ithaca was a bed that Odysseus himself made as a wedding gift to his wife when they got married. This bed is unmovable, because the top right bedpost is not actually a bedpost – it is a whole freaking olive tree. He fashioned and crafted the bed as an extension of that tree, making the Royal Chambers a true sight to behold, what with having a full grown olive tree slap-bang in the middle of the room. He tells her “My wife, how can you possibly ask me to do that? I cannot, that would destroy our bed.” And that’s when she believed he was who he was claiming to be. Only Odysseus himself would know the history behind that bed.
Great job on the article. It was more of a summary rather than an explanation of Odyssey, but it served its purpose of telling this immortal story to people who are probably not aware of it. The explanation of it is mind blowing, deeply philosophical and some would say it is the first guide for how one should live life according to ancient Greeks.
Thank you for your article. Regarding 10:14, for those who are unfamiliar, Circe was the sister of Pasiphae who was the wife of Minos, the King of Crete. Queen Pasiphae copulated coitus more ferarum with the Cretan Bull that was sent by Poseidon to Minos as a sacrificial gift. Thus Pasiphae became the mother of the infamous Minotaur. Furthermore Circle and Pasiphae were the aunts of Medea who was Princess of Colchis. Medea eloped with Jason who absconded with the Golden Fleece and fled with his Argonauts from Medea’s father Aeetes, the King of Colchis who was the brother of Circle and Pasiphae.
Thank you for this great summary (along with that of the “Iliad”) of two classics I have wanted to read, but found too long and complicated, for over 60 years! I love the art (whose painters would be nice to know), the maps, and the simple but elegant language used to narrate the stories (nice reader, as well)! Thank you for allowing me to get to know these timeless works in a more familiar manner so that I can do further research on my own to be able to appreciate them on a deeper level. And the length of each article is perfect!
I can’t remember where I read it, perhaps in one of the shorter stories that fill in the gaps of the Iliad, Odyssey, Aeneid, etc, but I believe Odysseus had one final mission to accomplish after he returned home. Supposedly, when Odysseus and his men were sacking Troy, they violated or desecrated a temple dedicated to Poseidon. In anger, it was Poseidon who endlessly turned the winds and waves to keep Odysseus from reaching home for ten years. In order to appease Poseidon, Odysseus had to travel inland with an oar until he reached a point where someone would ask him, “what’s that”; a land that knew nothing about ships, or the sea, or Poseidon, God of the sea. There he had to build a temple or alter and offer a sacrifice to Poseidon; bringing the knowledge and worship of Poseidon to a land that had previously not known of him.
Thanks for sharing this Greek mythology story. I read this book (Spanish) that I grabbed randomdly thinking it was an ordinary book. However onced I began to read it, something changed my mind.. It’s full of wonderful tales of greatness and defeat, setting a side the mythology voyager he encountered, the way he escaped only to find more adventure, danger, and mental-physical challenge.. Truly felt the anguish of the great warrior (Ulises in my book) wasn’t sure if it was a written fictional story or driven by events because it sound too sureal but then Greek lived among God and everything evolved around that belief.. Thanks for clarifying few details for me, and refreshing the story! #2023 ❤🧡💛💚💙💜
Really well presented. BUT the map of Odysseus’ journey is probably not right. I’ve started reading, “The Baltic Origins of Homer’s Epic Tales.” What a book …! Addressing many topics one after another, it argues that the whole setting of the Trojan War and Odyssey was re-located to the Mediterranean a long time ago when the people migrated. If the stories are returned to their apparent original setting up north then they become much more realistic and understandable. Though the concept is at first challenging, the arguments make sense and are pretty amazing. I hadn’t realised but the places, culture and climate described in the Homer stories never really worked in the Mediterranean landscape. Homer is describing endless fog and rain; tides, long days/short nights and other features of the open ocean, and Scandinavian and Arctic regions. Many of the places seem to still exist today around the land and seas of the Baltic and North Sea and fit those described by Homer very accurately (eg. the original cold, dark Hell in north-east Finland …). Many ancient scholars like Strabo, Plutarch and Tacitus had actually placed certain parts of Homer’s tales in the seas of northern Europe, but it wasn’t realised that ALL of the action was taking place in northern Europe. So, the ancient Greeks, or rather Achaeans and Hellenic people as they called themselves, lived on the islands and coast around the vast Baltic Sea. When the climate cooled around 2000BC they migrated south and re-settled on the Mediterranean coast, becoming the ancient Myceneans who later founded the classical Greek culture.
The Odyssey is a mix of old poems and ballads with the hero Odysseus doing everything.i am basing my theory in the events in the poem.we know the hero went to Crete to persuade the king Idomenaus to participate in the war.we know he went to the island of Skyros to find Achilles .We know that he went to Troy wi tfh king Menelaus to demand the return of Helen of Sparta.yes was some diplomatic wrangling before the war,to convince the population that everything was done to avoid war.then when he was returning to Ithaka,a storm came out of nowhere when he was rounding the Pelloponeesse and got lost.who got lost .Odysseus who was travelling the Agean sea the Ionian sea,the Cretan sea,at whim. Basically this part of a poem maybe is at least ferreting to an age when the Achaens were shepherds and maybe were doing some fishing in the messinian and Laconian lagoons and if they went out and they couldn’t see land,they were lost.and all the other adventures in 5the medidderean sea may be attributed to that era,maybe five hundred years before the Trojan war,when the Cretans were the masters of the medidderean and the other Grreks( Achaens) were living in the early bronze age.
Kavafis Konstantinos .1863 – 1933 . Ithaka (Translation in English) As you set out for Ithaka hope the voyage is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, angry Poseidon—don’t be afraid of them: you’ll never find things like that on your way as long as you keep your thoughts raised high, as long as a rare excitement stirs your spirit and your body. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, wild Poseidon—you won’t encounter them unless you bring them along inside your soul, unless your soul sets them up in front of you. Hope the voyage is a long one. May there be many a summer morning when, with what pleasure, what joy, you come into harbors seen for the first time; may you stop at Phoenician trading stations to buy fine things, mother of pearl and coral, amber and ebony, sensual perfume of every kind— as many sensual perfumes as you can; and may you visit many Egyptian cities to gather stores of knowledge from their scholars. Keep Ithaka always in your mind. Arriving there is what you are destined for. But do not hurry the journey at all. Better if it lasts for years, so you are old by the time you reach the island, wealthy with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaka to make you rich. Ithaka gave you the marvelous journey. Without her you would not have set out. She has nothing left to give you now. And if you find her poor, Ithaka won’t have fooled you. Wise as you will have become, so full of experience, you will have understood by then what these Ithakas mean.
Is it just me or does Trojan war-Odessey have several parallels with Hindu mythology of Ramayan? Princess Sita hosts an archery competition to choose the right suitor. Only Lord Ram can thread the bow and marries Sita. Later, Sita is kidnapped and taken to the island of Sri Lanka so Ram goes to Lanka and rescues Sita (somewhat similar to Trojan war). On the route to Lanka, Ram’s warriors have to face massive waves and fight several sea-monsters.
I first read rhis as a child, i remember being struck by the double standard for men. It was strange that the wrong people were considered ” Heroic”, and the loosers were vilified. I also disagreed with Penelope staying faithful. Her husband didn’t, says a lot about the lack of self control and character in ancient culture.
The modern world only knows Homer and the Odyssey🏹 because of the sages of the Golden Age of Islam☪ They recovered these and many other relics of the classical Greco-Roman era🏛Visionaries, they saw that these works were more than just epics🌍 These were pagan testimonies of spiritual path and liberation♾
Penelope’s loyalty went unrewarded as Ulysses cheated on her with Circe & Calypso… I would have left him due to his unfaithfulness. Plus he had a kid with Circe… Nah… It’s one thing if he had kids before we met, but if he cheated & made a kid, it’s UNFORGIVABLE & I wouldn’t have anything to do with his side piece’s kid… #CallMeSelfishandMeanButImHonest!!!!
Something that I’m mentioning everywhere: Hellas not Greece. We are Hellenes not Greeks. Grekoi/Greeks are one of the many Hellenic tribes🇬🇷 Now, after leaving Troy Odysseus and his crew went to Thrace🇬🇷 The lake Ismara is real, it’s called Ισμαρίδα/Ismarída and my village is near it! The Thracians (also Hellenes like the Trojans) were allies to Trojans during the war. The Cyclop Polyphemus’ cave was in Thrace. Near the ancient Maronia there is one cave that is considered to be Polyphemus’ cave. The locations weren’t accurate! Where you place the “Underworld” is the location of the city Μασσαλία/Massalía today’s Marseilles, a city founded by Hellenes colonists! The entrance to the Underworld was where the river Styx was and it was in Hellas, not there (today’s France) Also, Sirens were not like that! These women-like-mermaids are the Hollywood version. The Sirens were described as birds with woman heads! Helios was not a God! Helios was the personification of the Sun. Ήλιος/Ílios > Helios means Sun. Hellas means the land of the Sun Hellenes means the sons of the Sun. The sun was a Titan. After the Titanomachy, when the Titans lost the battle Zeus imprisoned then to Tartarus. Ancient Hellenes weren’t worshiped the Titans Uranus, Helios, Cronus.. etc Romans worshipped the Titans. Hellenes only worshiped the Olympian Gods and made temples for them! The names’ meaning: •Οδυσσέας / Odisséas = Odysseus Derives form the term οδύσσομαι/odíssome meaning I am persecuted.
Men can learn from Odysseus’ self understanding —which appears to be the basis of his wisdom—when it comes to the lure and hazards of women: the sirens. He acknowledged his weaknesses and prepared for temptation he intentionally faced —for the purpose of overcoming it. By not giving in (by wax or tied to the mast), the men overcome before trouble cums. The sirens exhaust their energies, are spurned and self defeated.
Ok the whole cyclops story is sus cause you don’t just go and take someone’s food or things without their permission. This is classic invader behaviour. They take what is not theirs without asking and find themselves in danger when the inhabitants defend themselves. But granted they are smart they over power them and get to tell the tale of this horrifying beast instead to make them sound godly. History is always written by the victors.
I am sorry to say that you are missing half the story of the Odyssey. Half of the text is about Odysseus, but the other HALF of the text is about Penelope. Penelope’s story isn’t the action/adventure story that Odysseus’ tale. Her’s is more subtle. Ask yourself: How is it that a woman kept 100 suitors at bay for 10-years? These suitors could have killed her and taken the household at any time, yet she somehow diverted, confused, and ensnared them in to stagnation for 10 whole years. How?!?! Homer devoted 50% of the text to her campaign, so Homer thought her tale was worth telling. Odysseus, known for his guile and cunning, calls Penelope his equal (its in the text). I invite you to edit and re-release this article, and to make another article digging in to the other half of the story.
Modern Ingushians (Galgai, Lamoor) are direct descendants of the Amazones (Female tribe) and the Gargareans (Male tribe) mentioned by Ancient Greek historian Strabo. And those Amazones mentioned by Strabo particularly definitely had nothing in common with Turkic, Mongol people or Persians. They are pure Caucasians. We call our self Galgai. Aka: Colchis Gargareans Kisti Kusti Qalqans/Kalkans/calcans Halka Gligvi Dzurdzuks Gelians Lamoor Loamaro Ingushians Jeirahoi Targimhoi Hamhoi / Hamehi Aegians Fyappiy With no doubt we are direct descendants of the ancient Amazones and the Gargareans mentioned by Strabo.
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Hey thanks for posting this appreciate this tid-bit of information on Odysseus Journey Home. I used too think that these stories were Myth’s then I finally decided too Read and Study the most Feared Biblical Book’s once in the Bible but, was taken Out by The Early Church Father’s. They are The Book’s of Enoch. A Prophet of The Bible. Enoch 1 The Book of The Watcher’s Enoch 2 The Book of the Secret’s of Enoch. Enoch 3 The Book of Giant’s The Chronic Theme in The Ancient World are these Universal Identifying Word’s. Giant’s Monster’s Cyclops Ogres Trolls Dwarves Fairies Elves Gnomes Titan’s Nephilims Rephalims gods Ancient History has gone and past I think these Oral Stories are though of as Myth’s because they speak of a by gone Era where perhaps those monster’s under the bed or in the closet actually walked The Earth. That’s why my position on the Stories Identified as Myth’s is Yes they’re True and admittedly It is because of The Bible that I believe Them to be True in spite of the fact the Early Church Father’s removed Enoch from The Original Bible. Oh and The Book of Jubilees dubbed by Theologian Academics & Scholars as The Lesser Genesis which was written by Moses. That’s all I wished to share about this story of Odysseus and his 20 long year’s to get back home. We’re the events of Odysseus story were to take place within a specific Era in The Bible; I’d have to say In The Day’s Before The Great Flood. Genesis & Jubilees Timeline 20 Years was nothing for Odysseus People lived far longer in those days leading up to The Great Flood.
I liked the Iliad better. The Odyssey is a little goofy, with the monsters and the long time span. I remember thinking when they start killing all the suitors, describing the stabs through bodies etc, “Finally, this book is going back to the Iliad style of GORE!! LET’S GO!” Other than that, the Odyssey and Iliad feel like different authors, or at least for different audiences. Still worth reading of course, but curse the schools for watering down the violence and only focusing on the cleaner parts. Give us everything or nothing! Great article, love all the artwork. ❤️