For example, he ordered the men back to the ship and tied them to the seats. Odysseus knew that if he did not lead, he and his men would remain with the Lotus Eaters forever. Odysseus believes in sacrifice and would do anything to protect his men, which a hero always does. The author explains in book 12: “They approach the island of the lovely Sirens, and Odysseus, according to Circe's instructions, plugs the ears of his men with beeswax and has himself tied to the ship's mast.” “Only he hears their song, promising to reveal the future.” This fact proves that Odysseus would protect his men from the seductive sirens, but he would hear them alone. Ulysses knew that his men would not resist the seductive sirens. Not only does Odysseus sacrifice himself, but he also shows good leadership. Odysseus did his best in books 19-20 to keep his identity a secret from Penelope, his wife, because his goal was to win over the suitors with the help of his son Telemachus. He wanted to face Penelope when she dealt with all her problems in her house. Odysseus wanted to show Penelope when he was ready and in a way he was also testing Penelope's loyalty. He is still a hero because he is not sure he can trust Penelope and knows he must protect his home from suitors.