* To survive: Odysseus and his men are trapped in the cave of the Cyclops, a monstrous giant. Their only hope of escape is to outsmart him.
* To sow confusion: By claiming his name is "Nobody," Odysseus intends to confuse Polyphemus if he were to seek help from other Cyclops. If Polyphemus cries out, "Nobody is hurting me!" no one would come to his aid, as they wouldn't know who to blame.
* To exploit Polyphemus's ignorance: Polyphemus is not known for his intelligence or cunning. Odysseus plays on this by using a simple trick to ensure his survival.
This strategy ultimately works as Polyphemus, blinded and in pain, yells out, "Nobody is hurting me!" and no other Cyclops comes to help. This deception allows Odysseus and his men to escape the cave, though not without a fight.