Invocation to muse to tell the story of Ulysses, a hero who traveled widely and suffered greatly after the fall of Troy.
Ulysses struggled to save his men and return home, but his men perished due to their own folly.
Ulysses detained by the goddess Calypso who wanted to marry him.
The Gods' Council on Olympus
All gods, except Neptune, pity Ulysses.
Neptune is angry with Ulysses for blinding his son, Polyphemus (a Cyclops).
Jove (Zeus) discusses human folly and divine influence on their fate.
Minerva's Intervention
Minerva (Athena) is concerned for Ulysses and decides to visit Ithaca.
Disguised as Mentes, she plans to inspire Telemachus, Ulysses’ son, to take action.
Telemachus and the Suitors
Telemachus is frustrated by the suitors courting his mother, Penelope.
Minerva encourages Telemachus to seek news of his father.
Action Plan for Telemachus
Call an assembly to address the suitors who are wasting his estate.
Travel to Pylos and Sparta to seek news of Ulysses.
Penelope and Telemachus
Penelope is distressed by the suitors and longs for Ulysses.
Telemachus stands up to the suitors, asserting his authority.
Minerva's influence gives him courage and hope.
Departure and Reflection
Telemachus plans his voyage to learn about his father's fate.
He reflects on Minerva's counsel and feels encouraged.
Characters
Ulysses: The hero, longing to return home.
Telemachus: Son of Ulysses, determined to find his father.
Penelope: Ulysses’ wife, besieged by suitors.
Minerva (Athena): Goddess aiding Ulysses and his family.
Neptune (Poseidon): God opposing Ulysses.
Suitors: Men vying for Penelope's hand, exploiting Ulysses' estate.
Jove (Zeus): King of gods, discusses divine justice.
Important Locations
Ithaca: Homeland of Ulysses and Telemachus.
Olympus: Home of the gods.
Calypso's Island: Where Ulysses is detained.
Summary
Book One sets the stage for Ulysses’ return journey and introduces the main conflicts and characters. Telemachus is inspired to seek out his father and reclaim his home from the suitors with the help of divine intervention.