He is a legendary protagonist of the epic poem. The question related to the essence of this parsonage is rather controversial. He is a hero with virile mind who can easily overcome difficulties. Despite his young age he is a brave hero experienced in different battles. There is no better "improviser" or "strategist" in Greek mythology. According to the plot his Achilles' heel is a weak soul as he gives in to temptation of women. That is why he invokes everybody not to make fatal mistakes because of addicted feelings. He occupies central point of the poem.
Odysseus in the Essays