Question

What functions as a symbol in this excerpt?

Answer 1

Argus

One way to look at this is to eliminate answers that aren't possible. The entire excerpt describes Argus. There is no mention of Odysseus, so that's wrong. There isn't actually a mule, just mule poop. So it's not mule. There isn't actually a king either, just his estate. So this is wrong too. The only actual thing in the excerpt is Argus. He symbolizes loyalty.

Answer 2

Argus became slave, as his master Odysseus was gone. He was neglected and maltreated but despite of these, he remain hopeful that he will see his master before he took his last breath. Moreover, the faithfulness and loyalty of the dog symbolizes the love and the simple relationship of Odysseus and Argus.