Lecture Notes: Books Three and Four of The Odyssey

Book Three: Telemachus and Athena in Pylos

• Athena's Role: Disguised as Mentor, Athena accompanies Telemachus.
• Sacrifice to Poseidon: They witness a sacrifice, emphasizing the importance of appeasing gods.
• Telemachus Learns: Importance of seeking divine favor and being bold in inquiries.
• Nestor's Information: Limited information about Odysseus, but shares stories:
  • Story of Agamemnon: Contrasts Penelope's fidelity with Clytemnestra's infidelity.
• Hospitality and Assistance:
  • Nestor shows hospitality to Telemachus.
  • Offers his son, Pisistratus, to accompany Telemachus.
  • Advises a visit to Sparta to meet Menelaus, Agamemnon’s brother.
• Athena's Transformation:
  • Turns into an eagle; Nestor recognizes the divine intervention.
  • Emphasizes importance of recognizing and respecting gods.

Book Four: Telemachus in Sparta

• Meeting with Menelaus and Helen:
  • Menelaus recounts his knowledge of Odysseus being alive.
  • Stranded on the island of Pharos due to insufficient sacrifice.
  • Wrestles with Proteus, a shapeshifter, to learn about Agamemnon and Odysseus.
• Telemachus' Reaction:
  • Moved by Menelaus and Helen’s affection for Odysseus.
  • Informs them about the suitors in Ithaca.
• Menelaus’ Assurance:
  • Confirms Odysseus is alive on Ogygia, held by Calypso.

Events in Ithaca

• Penelope and the Suitors:
  • Suitors plot to assassinate Telemachus upon his return.
  • Penelope learns of the suitors’ plan.
• Athena’s Intervention:
  • Sends a phantom of Penelope’s sister to reassure her.
  • Phantom offers no information on Odysseus, but assures Athena’s watchfulness.

Themes and Important Points

• Hospitality: Virtue shown through characters’ actions.
• Deception: A key element in interactions and strategies.
• Divine Intervention: Limited but significant role of gods in mortal affairs.