How does Odysseus escape from the island of Calypso?

As an expert in the field of classical literature, I can provide an in-depth analysis of how Odysseus escapes from the island of Calypso, as depicted in Homer's "Odyssey." This epic poem is one of the most significant works of ancient Greek literature and tells the story of Odysseus's journey home after the Trojan War. The narrative of his time with Calypso is a key part of this journey. Odysseus's stay on the island of Calypso is described in Book V of the "Odyssey." Calypso, a nymph, has kept Odysseus on her island for seven years, desiring him as her immortal husband. Despite her affections and the comforts of the island, Odysseus longs to return to his homeland, Ithaca, and his wife, Penelope. The turning point in Odysseus's captivity comes when the gods, who have been observing his plight, decide that he has suffered enough. The catalyst for his release is the intervention of the goddess Athena, who pleads with Zeus, the king of the gods, to allow Odysseus to continue his journey home. Athena has been a consistent ally to Odysseus throughout the "Odyssey," and her concern for his well-being is a recurring theme. Zeus, moved by Athena's plea and recognizing the injustice of Odysseus's prolonged absence from his home, commands Hermes, the messenger of the gods, to go to Calypso's island and instruct her to set Odysseus free. Hermes delivers Zeus's message, and Calypso, though reluctant and saddened, obeys the divine command. It is important to note that Calypso's initial desire to keep Odysseus was not purely selfish. She offers him immortality and eternal youth, which are significant gifts in the context of Greek mythology. However, Odysseus values his home, his wife, and his mortality more than the immortality offered by Calypso. His determination to return home is a testament to his character and the central theme of the "Odyssey" – the longing for home and the importance of one's place in the world. Once Calypso agrees to let him go, she provides Odysseus with the means to leave the island. She gives him a bag of provisions and helps him construct a raft. With the nymph's assistance, Odysseus sets sail, embarking on the next leg of his long and arduous journey back to Ithaca. In summary, Odysseus's escape from Calypso's island is not an escape in the traditional sense. It is a release facilitated by the gods, particularly Athena and Zeus, who recognize his suffering and desire to return home. Calypso's compliance with the divine command marks a significant moment in the narrative, as it sets the stage for the continuation of Odysseus's journey and the eventual fulfillment of his desire to see his homeland once more.

If we look at the Homer's work carefully, we must conclude that Odysseus does not escape Calypso's island. He is let go by Calypso. More specifically, the gods allow him to leave. ... When this decision is made, Zeus sends Hermes on his way to Calypso to tell her to let Odysseus go home.