In the epic novel The Odyssey, Homer uses epic conventions to enrich the story. Three of the main epic conventions are epithets, deus ex machina or divine machinery, and flashbacks. All of these conventions aid the development of the plot, characters, and the immortalization of Odysseus.

First, Homer uses epithets to assist with the expansion and knowledge of the characters to the reader. The first example of this is, "The grey-eyed goddess Athena," (p 45 ln 387). This conveys the intelligence and wisdom of Athena, a vital part in the book as she is constantly aiding and rescuing both Odysseus and Telemachos. It also interconnects with the immortalization of Odysseus in that he has the constant attention of a goddess, which is not every typical mortal receives. Another epithet is, "The red-haired captain Menelaos," (p 39 ln 228). Letting the reader know of Menelaos's red hair accentuates...