Question

A major theme in The Odyssey is reciprocity, or people getting what they deserve. Explain how this theme affects the main characters: Odyssey, Penelope, Antinous, and Telemachus.

Answer 1

1- In the case of Odysseus, he is a proud and reckless man who believes to be invincible. Because of these traits, he and his men fall in the hands of disaster, which teaches them of the insignificance of men before the gods.

2- Penelope is strong but naive. She promises the men who are trying to court her that she will choose one of them once she is done with a tapestry she must weave to honor her husband. However, because she needs more time as she believes that Odysseus will return, she cheats by undoing the tapestry every now and then. When the suitors find out, they become furious and take over the palace, ravaging through all her property, taking their women and eating all their food. However, because of her loyalty to her husband, she waits for him and keeps her promise. Because of this, she is able to receive him again upon his return.

3- Antinous is a violent ill-willed man who abuses the home of the queen while Odysseus is gone. Because of everything he proves to have done during his absence, Odysseus has no mercy for him in the end and lets him meet his violent death.

4- Telemachus, Odysseus's son, is also naive and insecure, but he is also very brave. Because of his faith in Athena, and belief in his father, he is able to grow himself to a man and fight valiantly against the suitors to defend his home and family.