"The Odyssey" by Homer

Essay by JIm chenA-, February 1997

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The story, The Odyssey, was written by Homer and translated to English version by Samuel Butler. The main character in Odyssey was Odysseus, Kind of Ithaca, who after 20 years of wanderings returned home from the Trojan War and a long difficult journey which the powerful gave to him. He found himself recognized only by his faithful dog and a nurse. With the help of his son Telemachus he destroys the importunate suitors of his wife Penelope and reestablishes himself in his kingdom.

Athena appeals to Zeus for permission to help Odysseus reach home. Odysseus's home in Ithaca is overrun with suitors who are trying to win Penelopeia's hand. With the help of Athena disguised as Mentes, Telemachos finds the courage to confront the suitors.

In a town meeting, Telemachos announces his intentions to locate his father and rid his house of the suitors. He is met with ridicule and doubt, especially from Antinoos who confronts Telemachos twice.

Athena helps Telemachos prepare for his journey, an d he sets sail in secret that night.

Following Athena's advice, Telemachos visits King Nestor of Pylos to get information about his father. Athena accompanies him disguised as an old family friend, Mentor. Nestor tells Telemachos stories about Odysseus. Telemachos continues his search on horseback with Nestor's son Megapenthes.

Telemachos and Megapenthes arrive at and are welcomed into the home of Menelaos and Helen. Menelaos tells Telemachos of his travels with Odysseus and that Odysseus is trapped on an island by Calypso. Meanwhile, Antinoos has learned that Telemachos has e mbarked on his journey and plots with the other suitors to kill him upon his return to Ithaca. Penelopeia learns of Telemachos's leaving and is upset.

Athena again pleads to Zeus for Odysseus's release. Zeus sends Hermes to Calypso with orders that...