In 'The Odyssey', why does Odysseus blind Polyphemus?

Though his anger at Polyphemus for devouring his shipmates is certainly understandable, and though Polyphemus's blind rock-throwing fury eggs him on, Odysseus's taunts are unnecessary. By telling Polyphemus his name, Odysseus pits his mortal indignation against Poseidon's divine vengeance. read more

Polyphemus, in Homer, is depicted as a particularly savage giant, who eats human beings raw and washes them down with either milk or wine. He briefly captures Odysseus and his men; they get him drunk and blind him, after which they escape from his cave by clinging to the bellies of his sheep and goats. read more