Ulysses

Of all the ancient Greek heroes and gods that have transcended time, perhaps none is more enduring in the public imagination than Ulysses, king of Ithaca. Portrayed as a complex and multi-faceted man of courage and shrewdness, his legendary exploits are recounted in Homer’s epic poems of the 8th century BCE, the Illiad and the Odyssey.

The Illiad recounts the story of the Trojan War, a 10-year adventurous ordeal for Ulysses who is portrayed as the mastermind behind the fabled ruse of the Trojan horse that brings about victory to the ancient Greeks. The Odyssey recounts the ensuing 10-year journey of Ulysses and his men to return home to Ithaca – a journey of mythical proportions and formidable obstacles. He is the first man to set sail following a course dictated by the stars. Along the route, he encounters and overcomes the dangers posed by one-eyed monsters, the enchantress, Circe who turns his men into pigs, and the tempting song of sea sirens and many other perils. Once home, he is unrecognized after his long absence and must prove his identity to his wife Penelope, and son, Telemachus.

While the story is ancient, this is the first large-scale, modern exhibition dedicated to this extraordinary, contradictory hero – both a courageous champion and master of deception who confronts all that the gods and the vicissitudes of life throw at him with cunning and grace. His story and the ancient cultural milieu of his lifetime is told through original archeological artifacts; his journey reconstructed through immersive multimedia devices and evocative stage-setting. The captivating end result is a highly educational and entertaining visitor experience for all ages.

About the Exhibition