The Odyssey of Modern Heroes: How 'The Man Who Would Be King' Continues the Ancient Epic Tradition

Since its ancient origins, the epic has served as a powerful vehicle for exploring themes of identity, transformation, and the human journey home. In modern times, The Man Who Would Be King, starring George Clooney, continues this tradition by drawing on themes and narrative structures from one of history's most celebrated epics, The Odyssey.

Central Plots and Characteristics

The film centers on three escaped convicts—Ulysses Everett McGill (played by George Clooney), Pete (John Malkovich), and Delmar (Tim Reichard)—who attempt to return to their hometown in rural Mississippi. This mirrors Odysseus' long journey back to Ithaca after the Trojan War. The primary plot parallels are:

Ulysses Everett McGill: The protagonist, whose name directly references Odysseus, embodies traits of cleverness and resourcefulness. Penny: Everett's wife, who represents Penelope, Odysseus' faithful spouse, waiting for his return. The Cyclops: A one-eyed character named Big Dan Teague represents the Cyclops, Polyphemus, whom Odysseus encounters in his travels.

The film also incorporates mythological elements and characters such as the sirens, represented by a trio of singing women who lure the protagonists into danger. These elements seamlessly integrate ancient mythology into a distinctly American context, highlighting the universal themes of human struggle and identity.

Themes of Identity and Transformation

Both The Odyssey and The Man Who Would Be King explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and the struggle against external forces, including societal norms and personal demons. This makes the two narratives resonate with timeless human experiences, making them relatable across cultures and centuries.

Cultural Context

The setting of The Man Who Would Be King in the American South during the Great Depression adds a layer of cultural context. The film's exploration of issues such as race, class, and the American experience reflects the challenges faced by Odysseus in his own time. By juxtaposing these elements, the film creates a modern reinterpretation of the ancient epic, demonstrating the enduring relevance of the narrative structure and themes.

Mythological Echoes in the Opening Lines

The opening lines of The Odyssey read:

νδρα μοι νnego;μα μνει ?νοσα πολτροπον, μλα πολλον πλileo;χθη πε ?Τροι; ?ερν πτολεθρον περσεν:

This can be loosely translated as:

"Sing of a man of constant sorrow, Muse, who saw many troubles after bringing down the sacred city of Troy."

The emotional connection between these opening lines and the opening of The Man Who Would Be King is evident. Both works engage with the human struggle and the journey through difficulties, reflecting the enduring themes of the epic tradition.

Conclusion

While The Man Who Would Be King is a distinct modern narrative, it creatively borrows from the ancient epic tradition, embedding Odyssean themes within a uniquely American context. This not only demonstrates the universal appeal of the epic form but also highlights the continued relevance of classical mythology in contemporary storytelling.