With a dark glance
wily Odysseus shot back, "Indecent talk, my friend.
You, you’re a reckless fool – I see that. So,
the gods don’t hand out all their gifts at once,
not build and brains and flowing speech to all.
One man may fail to impress us with his looks
but a god can crown his words with beauty, charm,
and men look on with delight when he speaks out.
Never faltering, filled with winning self-control,
he shines forth at assembly grounds and people gaze
at him like a god when he walks through the streets.
Another man may look like a deathless one on high
but there’s not a bit of grace to crown his words.
Just like you, my fine, handsome friend. Not even
a god could improve those lovely looks of yours
but the mind inside is worthless."
– Homer
The Odyssey, Book 8, lines 190-205. Broadsea’s taunts about Odysseus’ lack of athleticism sparks Odysseus’ ire. The Greek hero’s pride is injured and he gives back as good as he gets. He talks about the power of intellect and eloquence, placing a high value on these. A man with unimpressive looks may be gifted with words, he tells the Phaeacian athlete. The same man can display charm and beauty and self-control, being seen by others as a god (simile), Odysseus says. He tells Broadsea distainfully that while his lovely looks could not be improved upon, his mind inside is worth nothing. When Odysseus remarks that the gods don’t hand out the gifts of build and brains and eloquence to everyone at once, his words are somewhat ironic. For he is one man who embodies all these gifts: he is highly intelligent, athletic, a proven warrior, an excellent leader and physically attractive.
