Homer Odyssey XXI Essay Example

her as his wife. Eurymachus replied that they agreed and did not expect the guest to take Penelope away, but they feared the gossip from those who may not be so honorable. They were concerned that others may say they were unable to string the bow, despite being weaker, while trying to win the wife of a great man.

Penelope wisely rebuked Eurymachus, reminding him that it brings shame to a country when the house of a noble man is dishonored and ruined. She further pointed out that even if they claim victory over the beggar's challenge, their actions would still bring disgrace upon them. She then addressed Eurymachus and acknowledged the stranger's noble descent, who easily strung the bow and shot it through the iron.

Telemachus asked his mother to bring the well-polished bow, saying that they should see if he could string it. He promised to clothe the one who succeeded in fine clothing, including a tunic and a cloak. Additionally, he would add a sharp javelin that could protect against dogs and men, sandals for their feet and a double-edged sword. He would then send the winner wherever they wished to go. Telemachus claimed that no one had more authority than him to decide who could have the bow—neither those who led in rocky Ithaca nor those on the islands near Elis, the land of horses.

Despite my desire to give this bow to the guest as a present, none of these men will coerce me into doing so without my will. Nevertheless, I urge you to focus on your own work within your room and instruct your maidservants to expedite their tasks. The bow

is a matter of great importance for all men, but particularly for me since I hold the power in this household. Profoundly impressed, she returned to her quarters, pondering the sagacious words of her son.

Having ascended to her upper chamber, the wife of Odysseus, along with her maids, wept for her beloved husband until Athene bestowed slumber upon her. Meanwhile, the swineherd picked up the curved bow, but the suitors reproached him. One arrogant young man taunted him and warned that his hounds would soon track him down amongst his swine. Frightened by the commotion, Eumaeus placed the bow on the ground. Telemachus yelled at him to bring the bow forward and warned that he would not always submit to the will of others.

"Be careful, as even though I am younger, I may chase you into the fields and pelt you with stones. I am stronger than all the suitors, and if only I had the strength of my hands to match my physical strength, I would quickly send them away from my house for their wicked deeds," warned Telemachus. The suitors laughed sweetly at his words and let go of their anger towards him. The swineherd then brought the bow to Odysseus and Telemachus ordered Eurycleia to close the doors of the hall tightly. If anyone hears noises or groaning inside, they should not go outside but stay in silence beside their work."

After hearing his words, she closed the doors of the well-situated house silently. Philotos also left and locked the gates of the well-fenced courtyard. He used a cable made of curved reeds from a ship to secure the doors before he

entered. Once inside, he sat back down on his chair and observed Odysseus as he examined the bow in every way possible, making sure that worms hadn't damaged it while its owner was away.

As one person observed their neighbor, they commented on the expertise or skill in archery the wanderer displayed. The speaker believed the wanderer may have a similar bow at home or was eager to make one like it. Another arrogant young man made a negative remark about the wanderer's skills. However, crafty Odysseus then demonstrated his own prowess with the bow, examining it from every angle like a skilled musician putting a new string on a lyre.

With ease, Odysseus strung the massive bow and tested the string by grasping it in his right hand. The sound it produced resembled a swallow's beautiful voice. The suitors were filled with anguish, causing a change in their complexion. Thunder from Zeus signaled favorable signs, bringing joy to resilient Odysseus as the wise Kronos had sent him a message. He selected a swift arrow within arm's reach on the table.

The rest of the arrows were stored in his empty quiver, ready for the upcoming battle with the Archaens. Seated in his chair, he prepared his bow and aimed at the first axe socket. The bronze arrow hit the mark with ease, flying straight through. Telemachus was impressed and the stranger was not a let down. He had not struggled to string the bow, as some had insultingly suggested, and his strength remained intact. With that done, it was time to prepare a meal for the Achaeans and celebrate with dancing and music.

Telemachus, the beloved

son of God-like Odysseus, placed his sharp sword around his neck and grasped a spear as he stood next to his father's chair. He had received a signal from Odysseus, conveyed through his father's raised eyebrows. The young man was now armed in shining bronze.