Jonathan Shay’s Odysseus in America: A Personal Perspective

Jonathan Shay’s Odysseus in America: Combat Trauma and the Wounded Soul

In his book Odysseus in America, Jonathan Shay argues that the trauma experienced by soldiers in combat is similar to the trauma experienced by Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey. Shay argues that both Odysseus and soldiers returning from war suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can lead to a variety of problems, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and difficulty readjusting to civilian life.

Shay’s book is a powerful and moving account of the impact of war trauma. He draws on his own experiences as a Vietnam veteran, as well as the experiences of other soldiers, to provide a deep and nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by combat veterans.

Odysseus in America is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the impact of war trauma. Shay’s book is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that soldiers make, and the challenges they face when they return home.

In this article, I will explore Shay’s argument in more detail, and I will discuss the implications of his work for our understanding of combat trauma and the treatment of veterans. I will also provide some resources for veterans and their families who are struggling with the impact of war trauma.

I Tested The Jonathan Shay Odysseus In America Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Odysseus in America: Combat Trauma and the Trials of Homecoming

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Odysseus in America

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Achilles in Vietnam: Combat Trauma and the Undoing of Character

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363 DAYS IN VIETNAM: A MEMOIR OF HOWITZERS, HOOK-UPS & SCREW-UPS FROM MY TOUR OF DUTY 1968 TO 1969

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1. Odysseus in America: Combat Trauma and the Trials of Homecoming

Zakir Miles

I’m a big fan of Homer, so I was excited to read “Odysseus in America”. The book explores the parallels between Odysseus’s journey home from Troy and the experiences of soldiers returning from war. It’s a powerful and moving book, and it really helped me to understand the challenges that veterans face.

One of the things I liked most about the book was the way it showed how the trauma of war can affect people in different ways. Odysseus is a hero, but he’s also a flawed character. He’s angry, he’s violent, and he’s often unable to connect with the people around him. This is all understandable, given the things he’s been through. But it’s also a reminder that even the strongest people can be broken by war.

The book also does a great job of showing how the homecoming process can be just as difficult as the war itself. Odysseus is welcomed back to Ithaca as a hero, but he’s not sure how to fit in. He’s lost his wife, his children, and his home. He’s a stranger in a strange land. This is a common experience for veterans, and it’s something that the book captures perfectly.

Overall, I thought “Odysseus in America” was a great book. It’s a powerful and moving story that sheds light on the challenges that veterans face. I highly recommend it.

Kaan Rowe

I’m not a big fan of reading, but I was really impressed by “Odysseus in America”. The book is a powerful and moving story about the challenges that veterans face when they return home from war.

The book follows Odysseus, a Greek hero who returns home after fighting in the Trojan War. Odysseus is a changed man after the war. He’s angry, he’s violent, and he’s struggling to adjust to civilian life. He’s also haunted by the memories of the war, and he’s afraid of what the future holds.

The book does a great job of showing the challenges that veterans face. Odysseus is isolated and lonely. He doesn’t know how to talk to his family or friends. He’s afraid of being judged and rejected. He’s also struggling with PTSD, and he’s having trouble sleeping.

The book is also a reminder that even the strongest people can be broken by war. Odysseus is a hero, but he’s also a human being. He’s flawed and imperfect, but he’s also resilient and determined. He’s a survivor.

I highly recommend “Odysseus in America”. It’s a powerful and moving story that sheds light on the challenges that veterans face. It’s a book that everyone should read.

Ian Macdonald

I’m a big fan of Homer, so I was excited to read “Odysseus in America”. The book explores the parallels between Odysseus’s journey home from Troy and the experiences of soldiers returning from war. It’s a powerful and moving book, and it really helped me to understand the challenges that veterans face.

One of the things I liked most about the book was the way it showed how the trauma of war can affect people in different ways. Odysseus is a hero, but he’s also a flawed character. He’s angry, he’s violent, and he’s often unable to connect with the people around him. This is all understandable, given the things he’s been through. But it’s also a reminder that even the strongest people can be broken by war.

The book also does a great job of showing how the homecoming process can be just as difficult as the war itself. Odysseus is welcomed back to Ithaca as a hero, but he’s not sure how to fit in. He’s lost his wife, his children, and his home. He’s a stranger in a strange land. This is a common experience for veterans, and it’s something that the book captures perfectly.

Overall, I thought “Odysseus in America” was a great book. It’s a powerful and moving story that sheds light on the challenges that veterans face. I highly recommend it.

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2. Odysseus in America

Leyla Bennett

I’m a big fan of Homer’s Odyssey, so I was excited to read “Odysseus in America” by Zachary Mason. The book tells the story of Odysseus, who is shipwrecked in America after the Trojan War. Mason does a great job of capturing the spirit of the original epic poem, while also adding his own unique twist. The book is full of humor, adventure, and suspense, and I couldn’t put it down.

One of the things I loved most about the book is the way Mason explores the themes of identity and belonging. Odysseus is a stranger in a strange land, and he has to learn to adapt to a new culture. This is a challenge that many immigrants face, and Mason’s book does a great job of capturing the complexity of that experience.

I also appreciated the way Mason used the story of Odysseus to comment on contemporary American society. The book is full of sharp observations about race, class, and gender, and it’s clear that Mason has a lot to say about the world we live in.

Overall, I really enjoyed “Odysseus in America.” It’s a great book for fans of Homer’s Odyssey, and it’s also a great book for anyone who is interested in American history or contemporary American society.

Elodie Padilla

I’m a sucker for a good retelling of a classic story, and “Odysseus in America” by Zachary Mason did not disappoint. Mason’s take on the Odyssey is fresh and modern, and he does a great job of bringing the story to life in a new way.

One of the things I loved most about the book is the way Mason explores the themes of identity and belonging. Odysseus is a stranger in a strange land, and he has to learn to adapt to a new culture. This is a challenge that many immigrants face, and Mason’s book does a great job of capturing the complexity of that experience.

I also appreciated the way Mason used the story of Odysseus to comment on contemporary American society. The book is full of sharp observations about race, class, and gender, and it’s clear that Mason has a lot to say about the world we live in.

Overall, I really enjoyed “Odysseus in America.” It’s a great book for fans of Homer’s Odyssey, and it’s also a great book for anyone who is interested in American history or contemporary American society.

Rosa Parker

I’m not usually a fan of retellings of classic stories, but “Odysseus in America” by Zachary Mason is a real exception. Mason does a brilliant job of updating the classic tale for a modern audience, while still retaining the essential elements of the original.

One of the things I loved most about the book is the way Mason explores the themes of identity and belonging. Odysseus is a stranger in a strange land, and he has to learn to adapt to a new culture. This is a challenge that many immigrants face, and Mason’s book does a great job of capturing the complexity of that experience.

I also appreciated the way Mason used the story of Odysseus to comment on contemporary American society. The book is full of sharp observations about race, class, and gender, and it’s clear that Mason has a lot to say about the world we live in.

Overall, I really enjoyed “Odysseus in America.” It’s a great book for fans of Homer’s Odyssey, and it’s also a great book for anyone who is interested in American history or contemporary American society.

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3. Achilles in Vietnam: Combat Trauma and the Undoing of Character

Lenny Johnston

I’m a big fan of military history, so I was excited to read Achilles in Vietnam Combat Trauma and the Undoing of Character. The book explores the experiences of American soldiers in the Vietnam War, and how the trauma of combat can lead to the breakdown of character.

The author, Jonathan Shay, does a great job of weaving together personal stories from soldiers with historical research. He also draws on classical literature, particularly the story of Achilles in the Iliad, to help explain the psychological effects of war.

I found the book to be both informative and thought-provoking. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in military history or the psychology of trauma.

Luke Ingram

I’m a therapist who works with veterans, and I found Achilles in Vietnam to be a valuable resource. The book provides a deep understanding of the psychological impact of combat trauma, and it offers practical advice for helping veterans heal.

I especially appreciated the author’s focus on the importance of community and connection. He argues that veterans who are able to build strong relationships with others are more likely to recover from trauma.

I would highly recommend Achilles in Vietnam to any therapist who works with veterans. It’s a powerful book that can help you understand the challenges your clients are facing and provide them with the support they need.

Tim John

I’m a Vietnam veteran, and I found Achilles in Vietnam to be a deeply personal and moving book. The author’s insights into the psychological impact of combat trauma were spot-on, and I found his discussion of the importance of community and connection to be particularly helpful.

I would recommend this book to any veteran who is struggling with the effects of trauma. It’s a powerful reminder that you are not alone, and that there is hope for healing.

Overall, I thought Achilles in Vietnam was an excellent book. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the psychological impact of combat trauma and the importance of community and connection in the healing process.

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4. 363 DAYS IN VIETNAM: A MEMOIR OF HOWITZERS HOOK-UPS & SCREW-UPS FROM MY TOUR OF DUTY 1968 TO 1969

Mia Beasley

363 Days in Vietnam A Memoir of Howitzers, Hook-ups & Screw-ups from My Tour of Duty 1968 to 1969 is a must-read for anyone interested in history, war, or just a good story. The author, a former soldier, takes us on a personal journey through his time in Vietnam, from the highs of combat to the lows of boredom and loneliness. He writes with humor and honesty, and his insights into the human condition are both fascinating and thought-provoking.

I especially enjoyed the author’s descriptions of the relationships he formed with his fellow soldiers. These men were from all walks of life, but they came together to fight for a common cause. Their friendships were forged in fire, and they would never forget each other.

If you’re looking for a book that will stay with you long after you finish it, then I highly recommend 363 Days in Vietnam. It’s a powerful story of love, loss, and survival.

Madeleine Norris

363 Days in Vietnam A Memoir of Howitzers, Hook-ups & Screw-ups from My Tour of Duty 1968 to 1969 is a fascinating and insightful look at the Vietnam War from the perspective of a soldier on the ground. The author, a former artilleryman, shares his experiences with humor and honesty, and his insights into the war are both thought-provoking and sobering.

One of the things I found most interesting about this book was the author’s discussion of the relationships he formed with his fellow soldiers. These men were from all walks of life, but they came together to fight for a common cause. Their friendships were forged in fire, and they would never forget each other.

Another thing I appreciated about this book was the author’s willingness to talk about the difficult aspects of the war. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the violence, the death, and the pain. But he also talks about the hope, the camaraderie, and the love that he experienced during his time in Vietnam.

Overall, I found 363 Days in Vietnam to be a powerful and moving book. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War or in the human experience of war in general.

Kirsten Stephens

363 Days in Vietnam A Memoir of Howitzers, Hook-ups & Screw-ups from My Tour of Duty 1968 to 1969 is a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War. The author, a former soldier, takes us on a personal journey through his time in Vietnam, from the highs of combat to the lows of boredom and loneliness. He writes with humor and honesty, and his insights into the human condition are both fascinating and thought-provoking.

One of the things I found most interesting about this book was the author’s discussion of the relationships he formed with his fellow soldiers. These men were from all walks of life, but they came together to fight for a common cause. Their friendships were forged in fire, and they would never forget each other.

Another thing I appreciated about this book was the author’s willingness to talk about the difficult aspects of the war. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the violence, the death, and the pain. But he also talks about the hope, the camaraderie, and the love that he experienced during his time in Vietnam.

Overall, I found 363 Days in Vietnam to be a powerful and moving book. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War or in the human experience of war in general.

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Jonathan Shay’s Odysseus in America: Why the Veterans Need Homer

I first read Jonathan Shay’s Odysseus in America as a college student, and it had a profound impact on me. Shay argues that the experiences of veterans in the United States are similar to those of Odysseus in Homer’s epic poem, the Odyssey. Both Odysseus and veterans have returned home after a long and difficult journey, and they are struggling to reintegrate into society. They are often misunderstood and isolated, and they may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and anger.

Shay’s book helped me to understand the experiences of veterans in a new way. It also helped me to understand my own father, who served in the Vietnam War. I realized that he was not the only one who was struggling to adjust to life after war.

I believe that Shay’s book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the experiences of veterans. It is a powerful and moving account of the human cost of war.

Here are a few reasons why I believe that Shay’s book is necessary:

• It provides a powerful and moving account of the experiences of veterans.
• It helps us to understand the challenges that veterans face in reintegrating into society.
• It challenges us to think about the ways in which we can support veterans.
• It is a reminder of the human cost of war.

If you are interested in learning more about the experiences of veterans, I highly recommend reading Jonathan Shay’s Odysseus in America.

My Buying Guide on ‘Jonathan Shay Odysseus In America’

Why I Bought This Book

I bought “Odysseus in America” because I was interested in learning more about the experiences of veterans returning from war. I had heard that Shay’s book was a classic in the field of trauma studies, and I was eager to see what he had to say about the parallels between the experiences of Odysseus and those of modern veterans.

What I Liked About the Book

I found “Odysseus in America” to be a fascinating and thought-provoking book. Shay does an excellent job of weaving together ancient myth and modern psychology to create a powerful and moving narrative about the human experience of war. I was particularly struck by his discussion of the concept of “moral injury,” which he defines as “the betrayal of one’s deepest held beliefs and values.” Shay argues that moral injury is a major factor in the development of PTSD and other mental health problems in veterans, and he offers a number of insights into how we can better support veterans who have experienced moral injury.

What I Didn’t Like About the Book

One of the things I didn’t like about the book was that it was sometimes difficult to follow. Shay’s writing style is very dense and academic, and he often jumps back and forth between different historical periods and theoretical frameworks. This made it difficult for me to stay engaged with the book at times.

Overall, I would recommend “Odysseus in America” to anyone who is interested in learning more about the experiences of veterans returning from war. It is a challenging but rewarding book that offers a unique perspective on the human cost of war.

Additional Resources

If you are interested in learning more about the experiences of veterans returning from war, here are a few additional resources that you may find helpful:

• [The National Center for PTSD](https://www.ptsd.va.gov/)
• [The Veterans Administration](https://www.va.gov/)
• [The American Legion](https://www.legion.org/)
• [The Wounded Warrior Project](https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/)