Question

“…., for my purpose holds To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths Of all the western stars, until I die” 

(a) What was Ulysses’ purpose in life? 

(b) How long would his venture last?

Answer 1

(a) Ulysses proposes to sail beyond sunset and baths. His goal is not death but is in death. He seeks life in death. Ordinary mortals can’t reach ‘Happy isles’ or baths while they are alive. Ulysses wants to find direct evidence of spiritual reality after death. He wants to venture into the unknown. 

(b) His venture would last until he confronts his death.