Question

Explain why Odysseus lies about his identity and tests Eumaeus throughout their conversation.

Answer 1

Eumaeus was Odysseus's friend and swineherd, and the first one to receive him when he came back home disguised as a beggar. For Odysseus, it was important to test Eumaeus's loyalty and trustworthiness, so he lied about who he was and where he came from. In return, and even not knowing who this man was, Eumaeus's treated Odysseus kindly and with respect.