Question

How does Odysseus handle his return to Ithaca? How much does he tell those he meets about his true identity and intentions? How much help does Athena give him?

Answer 1

Answer:

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Explanation:

How does Odysseus handle his return to Ithaca?  

He acts in a cunning mansion using his skill and judgment. After returning to Ithaca, he often disguises himself to solve his own problems in the most efficient way possible.

The return of Odysseus to Ithaca with the help of Alcinous and the feacios. Odysseus shows satisfaction towards the feacios at this point and shows his gratitude by asking the gods to "rain all kinds of fortune" on them.  

Once in Ithaca, Athena throws a strong mist over the earth to hide Odysseus from recognition.  

Odysseus begins to explain that he is a sailor of Crete, Athena clearly knows that this is a lie, but understands that Odysseus still does not want to reveal his own identity.

This shows that Odysseus is intelligent and always aware of the consequences of his actions. Athena follows this story by adding that Odysseus is "witty" and explains to Odysseus that she has seen through his face.  

Odysseus respects Athena for his help in his return, therefore, he shows that he can be humble with others, especially with the gods.

How much does he tell those he meets about his true identity and intentions?

Book 16 shows Telemachus speaking to Eumaeus whilst he is with an unknown stranger, Odysseus.  

Athena emerges and tells Odysseus that it is appropriate to reveal his identity to his son in order to plot to kill the suitors.  

In this book, we see a vulnerable side to Odysseus’ personality as he is reunited with his son. Telemachus gives Odysseus the full details of the suitors plan in order for Odysseus to decide whether he can ‘take them on’.  

The contrast of Odysseus’ vulnerability to his warrior traits is significant yet shows how he can be loyal towards his family and want the best for them.

How much help does Athena give him?

Odysseus respects Athena for her help in his return therefore showing that he can be humble towards others, especially the gods.