Lecture Notes: The Odyssey - Books 13 and 14

Book 13: Odysseus' Return to Ithaca

• Odysseus' Story Conclusion

  • Odysseus finishes recounting his adventures to the Phaeacians.
  • Appeals to the Phaeacians for help to return to Ithaca.
  • The Phaeacians and their king agree to assist him.

• Poseidon's Anger

  • Poseidon is enraged by the Phaeacians aiding Odysseus.
  • Demands Zeus to intervene.
  • Zeus, who favors Odysseus, allows Poseidon to punish the Phaeacians.

Book 14: Arrival in Ithaca

• Odysseus Reaches Home

  • Dropped off in Ithaca by the Phaeacians while asleep.
  • Wakes up unknown to his surroundings due to Athena's mist.

• Athena's Guidance

  • Athena appears as a shepherd and converses with Odysseus.
  • Reveals herself as a goddess after he doesn't disclose his identity.
  • Praises Odysseus for his discretion.
  • Explains her absence due to fear of Poseidon.
  • Informs Odysseus about the suitors in his home.

• Transformation and Testing of Loyalty

  • Athena transforms Odysseus into a beggar.
  • Encounters Eumaeus, the loyal swineherd.
  • Odysseus, as a beggar, tests Eumaeus' loyalty with a fabricated story.
  • The story parallels Odysseus' own life, showcasing humility and virtue.

• Eumaeus' Loyalty

  • Eumaeus demonstrates loyalty by giving his cloak to the disguised Odysseus.

Themes and Analysis

• Vengeance

  • Poseidon's punishment of the Phaeacians highlights the theme of vengeance.

• Loyalty and Hospitality

  • Loyalty and hospitality are key themes, showing true character virtues.
  • Characters' hospitality reflects their open-mindedness and virtue towards guests.