The Odyssey, Books 1724

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The Odyssey, Books 17-24

• CNE/ENG 120
• 9/17/04

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Book 17 Odysseus as Beggar

• The disguised Odysseus sets out for his palace,
  meets Melantheus (a household retainer who has
  betrayed him).
• Piece by piece Odysseus reassumes his former
  identity.

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Recognition 1

• As Odysseus approaches the palace, he is in great
  danger, lest anyone recognize him.
• Old Argus (swifty), on the dungheap, recognizes
  the disguised Odysseus. Just when he is about to
  react, he dies. Odysseus is moved sheds a tear
  for his old hunting dog.

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Inside the Palace

• Welcomed, as is proper, Odysseus takes a place,
  crouching at the back of the main room against a
  pillar.
• The suitors spy him, and object. Antinous hits
  Odysseus with a footstool, an outrageous act.
  Odysseus tells the tale that he was once great,
  but now has fallen into ruin (like the suitors
  soon will!).

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Penelope Reacts

• Upon hearing of the suitors new outrageous
  against xenia, she announces that she wishes to
  speak with this beggar.
• Whether or not, or when, Penelope recognizes her
  disguised husband is a matter of much debate.

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Book 18 Battle of the Beggars the Tempting of
the Suitors