Christopher Nolan's film adaptation of "The Odyssey" is generating significant buzz, with advance tickets reportedly sold out through September at London's IMAX theaters. The nearly three-hour film, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope, is based on Homer's epic poem, a work that spans 23 books.
Professor Rebecca Laemmle, a Classics Professor at the University of Cambridge specializing in Homer, provided insights into the poem and its themes relevant to the film. She noted that the authorship of "The Odyssey" is debated, with many scholars believing the epic, like "The Iliad," evolved from centuries of oral tradition before being codified by a skilled individual.
"It’s a brilliant composition of many tales and tradition which was, at some point, put together by an extraordinary mind," Laemmle said. "Whether that was Homer or a person of another name, God only knows."
Odysseus, the protagonist and King of Ithaca, is depicted as the sole survivor of his army after a decade-long war in Troy and a subsequent 10-year journey home. The film stars Matt Damon in the role.
Zeus's Law
A central theme in the film, according to Professor Laemmle, is "Zeus' law," which governs the relationship between hosts and guests. This unwritten code dictates that a host must offer hospitality, including food and washing facilities, to a stranger before inquiring about their identity. Conversely, guests are expected not to harm their host or damage their property, and in turn, may receive similar consideration in the future. Violations of this law are depicted in the film through the actions of Penelope's 108 suitors, who overstay their welcome and consume Odysseus's resources, and also by Odysseus and the Greeks themselves through the deceptive ruse of the Trojan Horse.
"The story of the Trojan horse probably rings a few bells from school days gone by," Laemmle explained. "The huge wooden horse hiding and carrying soldiers inside represents the ultimate form of betrayal to the Trojans who initially believe the horse was a gift. Therefore, by deceptively sneaking into Troy, they broke the god's law."
The Fall of Troy and Penelope's Steadfastness
The Trojan War, which concluded 10 years before Odysseus's journey home, serves as the catalyst for his extended absence. Laemmle described the war's aftermath as a "hazy and difficult memory" for Odysseus.
Penelope, portrayed by Anne Hathaway, is presented as a model of fidelity. She waits for 20 years for Odysseus's return while fending off numerous suitors. Her loyalty is contrasted with Clytemnestra (played by Lupita Nyong'o), wife of Agamemnon, who takes a lover during her husband's absence. Laemmle characterized Penelope as "a very cunning woman, extremely intelligent and a real match for Odysseus."
Notable Changes in the Adaptation
Professor Laemmle highlighted that the film expands Odysseus's captivity with the nymph Calypso, a departure from the original poem. In Nolan's version, Odysseus recounts his adventures on Calypso's island, whereas the poem features the Phaeacians who facilitate his return and hear his tales. The film also notably reduces the presence of deities, with Athena, played by Zendaya, being a prominent exception. Zeus, Poseidon, and Hermes are not featured.
Athena is described as a mentor figure, a "cerebral goddess and somewhat a strategist" who aids Odysseus at crucial moments in his journey home.
Laemmle also addressed Odysseus's temptations with other women, noting that while such encounters might seem jarring by contemporary standards, they reflect different cultural expectations of fidelity in the poem's context. The underlying motivation for Odysseus's journey remains his desire to return to his wife and home.