Showing posts with label Odyssey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Odyssey. Show all posts

Saturday 24 February 2024

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVIII: THE BEGGAR KING OF ITHACA.

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVIII: THE BEGGAR KING OF ITHACA. 

Introduction:

Book XVIII, which is a relatively short book, sees a continuation of the 38th day of action in the story of the Odyssey. It begins with the quarrel between the disguised Odysseus and the beggar Irus, whom Odysseus easily knocks down. After the suitors have congratulated Odysseus on his victory, which they were not expecting, he warns one of them, Amphinomus, of the vengeance that is to come. Penelope then enters the action and blames Telemachus for his failure to protect the old stranger, whom she still doesn't recognise as her husband. She then converses with the suitors, who give her presents. When evening comes, Odysseus offers to look after the lamps to allow the serving women to go with their mistress, but one of them, Melantho, grievously insults him. When he threatens her with a terrible punishment, he scares all the serving women. Eurymachus mocks the disguised Odysseus, and, when the latter stands up to him, he throws a footstool at him. Although this misses Odysseus, it hits a cup-bearer, who falls to the ground, dropping a wine-bowl which beaks into pieces. This leads to a commotion among the other suitors, which Telemachus eventually manages to quieten, and he then persuades the suitors to return to their homes to sleep,     

Ll. 1-49. Irus the beggar.

There now appeared a common beggar, who used to beg throughout the city of Ithaca, and he was notorious amongst (them) for ravenous gluttony, as he ate and drank incessantly; he had neither strength nor vigour, despite being very bulky to look upon. Now his name was Arnaeus; for his lady mother had given (it) to him at his birth; but all the young men called him Irus, on account of his going to deliver messages, whenever anybody asked (him). On his arrival, he wished to drive Odysseus from his house, and he began to abuse him and addressed these winged words (to him): "Get away from the door-way, old man, lest you will soon be dragged away by foot. Do you not see that everyone is winking at me and bidding me to drag (you) off? Yet I am still reluctant (to do it). But up (you get), lest our quarrel should come to blows." 

Then, quick-witted Odysseus looked at him with a scowl and replied: "I am not doing or saying anything harmful to you, my good fellow, nor do I begrudge whatever you are given, even if you took up a lot. This threshold will contain (us) both, and there is no need for you to be jealous of anything that belongs to others; you seem to me to be a vagrant, just like I (am), and the gods will grant (us) a living. But do not challenge me too much with your fists, lest you provoke me, and, though I am an old man, I shall defile your breast and lips with blood; then tomorrow I should have more peace and quiet, for I do not think that you shall return a second time to the hall of Odysseus, son of Laertes."

Then, full of wrath, the vagrant Irus said to him: "For shame, how glibly does this greedy beggar speak, just like a woman at the oven! I shall devise bad (things) for him, smiting (him) with both (hands), and I shall knock out all the teeth from his jaws on to the ground, like a crop-eating sow. Now, gird up (your loins for battle), so that all these men shall know that (we are) fighting; but how can you fight with a younger man?"

So, on the polished threshold in front of the lofty doors, they roughed each other up most heartily. Then, the strong and mighty Antinous observed the two of them, and, laughing gleefully, he addressed the (other) suitors: "My friends, never before has such a thing (as this) happened, that a god has brought sport like this to this house. The stranger and Irus are challenging each other to fight with their fists; come let us quickly make a match of it!"       

So he spoke, and they all sprang up laughing, and gathered around the ragged beggars. Then, Antinous, the son of Eupeithes, spoke among them (and said): "Hear me, you proud wooers, so that I may say something. (There are) these goats' paunches lying by the fire, which we put there for supper, when we have filled them with fat and blood. Now, whichever of the two shall win, and prove himself the better (man), let him rise up and choose whichever one of them he wishes; furthermore, he shall always feast with us, nor shall we suffer any other beggar to mingle with (us) and beg."   

Ll. 50-87. Odysseus prepares to fights with Irus. 

So spoke Antinous, and his words were pleasing to them. Then, the wily-minded Odysseus spoke among them in a crafty manner: "My friends, there is no way that an older man, worn out by hardship, can fight with a younger man; but that knavish belly (of mine) urges me on, so that I may be overcome by his blows. But come now, all (of you), swear to me a binding oath, that no man, wishing to do a favour to Irus, shall strike me a foul blow with a heavy hand, and overcome me by force on his (behalf)." 

So he spoke, and they all swore (to it) as he bade (them). But when they had sworn and completed their oath, then again did the strong and mighty Telemachus speak among them: "Stranger, if your heart and manly spirit urges you on to defend yourself against this (fellow), then do not fear any (man) of all those Achaeans, for whoever strikes you shall have to fight with more (than you): for I (am) your host, and the lords Antinous and Eurymachus, wise (men) both, concur with this."

So he spoke, and they all applauded his (words). But Odysseus girded his rags about his loins, and showed his thighs, fine and massive (they were), and his broad shoulders were revealed, and his chest and his sturdy arms; and Athene drew near, and enlarged the limbs of the shepherd of the people. Then, the suitors were all exceedingly amazed; and thus would one speak, while glancing at another (one) beside (him): "In truth, Irus, no longer fit for errands, will soon find the trouble he has drawn upon himself, such a thigh does the old man show beneath his rags." 

So they spoke, and the spirit of Irus was badly shaken. But even so, the serving men girded (him) and led (him) out perforce all filled with dread; and the flesh trembled in his limbs. Then, Antinous berated (him) and addressed (him), speaking these words: "You might as well not be here, you lumbering oaf, nor should you ever have been born, if you quail at and dread (so) terribly a man who is old and worn out by the hardship that has come upon him. But I will speak out to you, and it will come to pass; if this man should conquer you and prove (to be) the better (man), I will hurl (you) into a black ship and send you to the mainland, to King Echetus, the bane of all mortals, who will cut off your nose and ears with the pitiless bronze, and draw forth your genitals and give (them) raw to the dogs to tear to pieces. 

Ll. 88-123. Odysseus batters Irus.

So he spoke, and at these (words) trembling came upon his limbs even more. And they led (him) into the middle (of them); and they both raised their fists. Then, was the much-enduring godlike Odysseus uncertain in his mind as to whether he should aim to strike (him) so that his life should leave him as he fell, or whether he should strike him with a light blow and lay (him) out on the ground. And, as he pondered thus, it seemed to be the better (course) to strike a light blow, so that the Achaeans should not recognise him. Then, drawing themselves up, Irus aimed a blow at his right shoulder, and (Odysseus) smote (him) on the neck below the ear and crushed the bones beneath (it); and red blood gushed from his mouth at once, and he fell down in the dust with a cry, and he ground his teeth together and drummed the ground with his feet; but the lordly wooers raised their arms and almost died of laughter. Then, Odysseus  seized hold of him and dragged (him) out through the doorway until he reached the courtyard and the gates of the portico; and he set him down and leant (him) against the walls of the courtyard; and he thrust his staff into his hand, and spoke to him, and addressed these winged words (to him): "Sit there now and keep away the pigs and dogs, and do not try to lord it over strangers and beggars, lest perhaps something bad and bigger may come your way." So he spoke and slung his wretched knapsack around his shoulders, shabby and torn (as it was); and a twisted cord was on (it).  

Then, he went back to the threshold and sat down; and the (suitors) went inside, laughing merrily, and greeted (him) with these words: "May Zeus and the other immortal gods grant you what you most desire and (what) is dear to your heart, (seeing) that you have stopped this gluttonous man from roaming around this land; for soon we shall take him to the mainland, to King Echetus, the bane of all mortals."

So they spoke, and godlike Odysseus was glad at the ominous words (i.e. because what he most desired was to kill the suitors). Then, Antinous put before him the great paunch, filled with fat and blood; and Amphinomus took up two loaves of bread from the basket and set (them) before (him), and he hailed (him) with a golden cup, and said: "Hail, my father stranger, may happiness be yours in the time to come, although now you are subjected to many sorrows."  

Ll. 124-168. Odysseus warns Amphinomus.

Then, Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, said to him in answer: "In very truth, Amphinomus, you seem to me to be a sensible (man); for so too (was) your father, for I used to hear good reports (of him), (namely) that Nisus of Dulichium was a brave and wealthy (man); they say that you are sprung from him, and you seem (to be) a man of intelligence. Therefore, I am going to tell you (something), and do you listen to me and take it to heart: of all (the things) that are breathing and walking on the (face of)  earth, the earth nurtures nothing more feeble than man. For he never thinks he will suffer evil in the future, so long as the gods give (him) prowess and his knees have strength; but, when the blessed gods then bring (him) troubles, he bears these (things) reluctantly with a patient heart; for the mood of man upon the earth is such as the daily (conditions which) the father of men and gods bring upon (him). For I, too, was once expecting to be prosperous among men, but I performed many wicked (deeds), giving way to my might and my strength, and relying on my father and brothers. Therefore, let no man ever be totally lawless, but let him keep in silence the gifts of the gods, whatever they give (him). For so I see the suitors devising (acts) of wantonness, wasting the possessions, and dishonouring the wife of a man, whom I declare will not be away from his friends and his native-land much longer; in fact, he is very near. But may some god lead you safely homewards, and may you not meet that (man) when he returns to his native-land; for I do not think that the suitors and he will part without bloodshed, when he shall come beneath his roof." 

So he spoke, and, having poured a libation, he drank the honey-sweet wine, and put the cup back into the hands of the people's marshal (i.e. Amphinomus). But the (latter) went (back) through the house with a heavy heart, shaking his head; for his mind foresaw disaster. But even so he did not escape his fate; but Athene bound him too with fetters, when he was forcefully overcome by a spear from the hands of Telemachus. Then, he sat back down again on the chair from which he had risen.  

Now, the bright-eyed goddess Athene put it into the mind of wise Penelope, the daughter of Icarius, to show herself to the wooers, in order to open widely the hearts of the suitors, and to win more honour from her husband and son than she had done before. And she made a forced laugh, and addressed, and spoke these words to, (the nurse): "Eurynome, my heart longs, as never before, to show myself to the suitors, hateful though they all are; and I would wish to say a word to my son that will be to his advantage: that he should not consort with those overbearing suitors, who speak fair (words), but behind (them) their intentions are evil." 

Ll. 169-205. Penelope prepares to show herself to the suitors.

Then, the housekeeper Eurynome spoke these words to her: "Yes, indeed, my child, all these (things) you have spoken aright. Then go and speak your words to your son, and do not hide (your thoughts); but (first) you must wash your body and anoint your face, and not go around like that with both your cheeks stained with tears, for it is a rather a bad (thing) to be forever endlessly grieving. For your son (is) now of age, and you have especially prayed to the immortals to see him with a beard." 

Then did the wise Penelope speak to her again: "Eurynome, despite your concern (for me), do not thus encourage me to wash my body and anoint myself with oil; for the gods that hold Olympus have destroyed my beauty, from the day when that (lord of mine) departed in the hollow ships. But tell Autonoe and Hippodameia to come to me, so that they may stand beside me in the hall; for I will not go alone among men; for I am ashamed (to do so)."    

So she spoke, and the old woman went off through the hall with a message for the women and telling (them) to come.

Then, the bright-eyed goddess Athene thought of something else; she shed sweet sleep over the daughter of Icarius, and she leant back and slept, and all her limbs relaxed on the couch; and, meanwhile, the most divine of goddesses was giving (her) immortal gifts, so that the Achaeans might marvel at her. First, she cleansed her beautiful cheeks with beautifying ambrosial (ointment), such as the well-crowned Cytherea (i.e. Aphrodite) anoints herself with, whenever she joins the Graces in their charming dance; and she made her look taller and broader, and she made her (skin) whiter than sawn ivory. Now, when the most divine of goddesses had done (this), she departed, and the white-armed handmaids came from the hall, chattering as they came; then, sweet sleep left her, and she rubbed her cheeks with her hands and exclaimed: "In truth, soft slumber wrapped it self around me, despite my great suffering. Would that holy Artemis would now offer me so gentle a death at once, so that I should no longer waste away my life sorrowing at heart, longing for the manifold excellence of my dear husband, for he was pre-eminent among the Achaeans." 

Ll. 206-249. Penelope speaks to Telemachus. 

So saying, she (i.e. Penelope) went downstairs from her upper chamber, not alone; for two handmaids came with her. But, when the most divine of women reached the wooers, she stood beside a pillar of the well-built roof, holding her shining veil across her face; and a trusty handmaid stood on either side of her. Then and there were their knees loosened, and their hearts were enchanted with love, and they all prayed that they might lie in bed beside (her). But she spoke once more to her dear son Telemachus: "Telemachus, your mind and your thoughts (are) no longer steadfast; when you were still a child, you used to revolve in your mind more clever (thoughts); but now that you are grown-up, and have reached the prime of youth, and any foreign man, who looked at your stature and your comeliness, would think that you were the son of a rich man, your mind and your thoughts are no longer on the right track. Now what a thing (is) this that you have done in these halls, that you have allowed that stranger to be so maltreated! What now, if some stranger sitting in our house should suffer thus from grievous rough-handling? On you would fall shame and dishonour among men."    

Then, wise Telemachus said to her in reply: "My mother, I do not feel any resentment at the fact that you have been provoked; but I know in my heart and understand everything (they do), both the good and the bad; and I am still the child I once was. But, nevertheless, I am not able to plan all (things) wisely; for these men sorely harass me, as they sit beside me, one by one, contemplating evil (things), and in my case there are no helpers. But, let me tell you, the contest between the stranger and Irus did not turn out according to the will of the suitors, but the former was the better in strength. (O) father Zeus, and Athene and Apollo, if only the suitors (were) now thus subdued in our palace, and were hanging their heads, some in the courtyard, and some within the hall, and that the limbs of each one were loosened, just as that (fellow) Irus sits by the courtyard gates, with his head lolling like a drunkard, nor can he stand up straight on his feet, nor make his way home, wherever his home (is), since his limbs are loosened."    

Thus did they speak such (words) to each other; then Eurymachus addressed Penelope with these words: "Daughter of Icarius, wise Penelope, if all the Achaeans in Ionian Argos (i.e. the Peloponnese) could set their eyes on you, (even) more suitors would be feasting in your halls from tomorrow, for in your beauty and your stature and, likewise, the mind within (you), you surpass (all other) women."

Ll. 250-289. Penelope speaks to Eurymachus.

Then, wise Penelope answered him: "In truth, Eurymachus, the immortals destroyed my excellence, both in shape and beauty, (on that day) when the Argives sailed to Ilium, and my husband Odysseus went with them. If he were to come and take charge of my life, so would my fame be greater and fairer. But now I am in mourning; for so many woes has some god brought down on me. Indeed, when he was going away and leaving his native-land, he grasped my right hand by the wrist and said: 'My wife, I do not think that the well-greaved Achaeans will all come back from Troy safe and sound; for they say that the Trojans are men of war, and hurlers of javelins, and drawers of arrows, and drivers of swift chariots, who quickly decide the great strife of equal warfare. So, I do not know whether the god will bring me back, or whether I shall fall into the hands of the enemy there in (the land of) Troy. Look out for my father and mother in the house, as (you do) now, or even more, as I shall be far away; but when you see my son has grown a beard, wed whomever you wish and leave your house.'  

"So did he speak; and now all these (things) are coming to pass. For the night will come when a hateful marriage shall fall to the lot of myself, accursed (as I am), whose happiness Zeus has taken away. But this terrible distress comes upon my heart and soul; this (way of yours) has never been known (as) the practice of suitors before; (those) who wish to woo a lady of worth and the daughter of a rich man, and compete with one another (in doing so), they themselves bring cattle and goodly flocks (to provide) a banquet for the friends of the maiden, and they also give her glorious gifts; but they do not consume another's livelihood without compensation."    

So she spoke, and the much-enduring godlike Odysseus was glad, because she drew gifts and charmed their souls with soothing words, but her mind was set on other (things). 

Then, Antinous, son of Eupeithes, spoke to her again: "Daughter of Icarius, wise Penelope, (as for) gifts, if anyone of the Achaeans is minded to bring (them) here, you must accept (them). For it is not a good (thing) to refuse a gift; but (as for) us, we will go neither to our own estates, nor anywhere else, until you marry him who (is) the best of the Achaeans." 

Ll. 290-336. The suitors bring gifts.

So spoke Antinous, and his speech was pleasing to them; and so each (man) sent forth a herald to bring his gifts. On behalf of Antinous, he brought a long very beautiful robe, richly embroidered; and on (it) there were golden brooches, twelve in all, fitted with curved clasps. And on behalf of Eurymachus, he promptly brought a richly wrought chain of gold, strung with amber beads, (bright) like the sun. And on behalf of Eurydamas, his squires brought a pair of earrings with clusters of three drops; and great beauty was reflected from (them). And from (the house) of Peisander, son of Polyctor, his squire brought a necklace, (and) a very beautiful ornament (it was). And so, one after another, the Achaeans brought a fair gift. Then, that most divine of women went upstairs, and her handmaids (went) with her, and carried these most beautiful gifts. 

But they (i.e. the suitors), turning to dancing and the delights of song, made merry, and they waited for evening to come on. And, as they were making merry, dark evening did come upon (them). At once, they set up three braziers in the hall, to bring (them) light; and around (these) they placed dry faggots of firewood, (which had been) dry for a long time, and well-seasoned, and newly split with an axe, and they mixed (them) with the burning (logs); and the handmaids of long-suffering Odysseus alternately fed the flames. Then, Zeus-born Odysseus, that (man) of many wiles, himself spoke among (them): "Handmaids of Odysseus, your long-absent master, go to the room where your revered queen (is). Whirl the spindle beside her, or comb the wool with your fingers, but keep her cheerful as you sit in her chamber; but I will provide light for all these (men). For, if they should wish to wait for well-enthroned Dawn, they shall not outlast me in any way; for I am very patient." 

So he spoke, and they (i.e. the handmaids) laughed and glanced at one another. But the pretty-faced Melantho jeered at him shamelessly, (she) whom Dolius had fathered, and (whom) Penelope had reared and nurtured like a daughter, and she gave her (all) the playthings her heart (could desire); but, even so, she had no sympathy in her heart for Penelope, but she was lying with Eurymachus and was in love (with him). Now, she berated Odysseus with these abusive words: "(O) wretched stranger, you are but a crack-brained fellow, for you are not willing to go to the house of a smithy, or, perhaps, to a public hostel, to sleep, but you talk a lot here in a bold manner with many men, and you have no fear in your heart; surely wine has taken hold of your wits, or your mind is always such as (it) now (is); and this is the reason why you are talking idly. Or are you beside yourself because you have overcome the vagrant Irus? (But beware), lest someone else, better than Irus, should soon stand up against you, and he should beat you about the head with strong hands, and expel you from the house, defiled with streams of blood."    

Ll. 337-364. Eurymachus taunts Odysseus.

Looking at her with a scowl, quick-witted Odysseus answered: "To be sure, I shall soon go over there and tell Telemachus what you are saying, (you) bitch, so that he may cut through you limb from limb on the spot." 

So he spoke, and scared away the women with his words. And they scuttled through the hall, and the limbs of each one of them shook with terror; for they believed that he spoke the truth. But he took his stand beside the burning braziers to ensure there was light, and he looked at everyone; but in his mind his heart was pondering other (things), (things) which were not be unfulfilled. 

But Athene would in no way allow the haughty wooers to be restrained from their grievously insulting behaviour, so that still more pain was to sink into the heart of  Odysseus, son of Laertes. Then among them, Eurymachus, son of Polybus, began to speak, while taunting Odysseus; and he caused laughter among his companions. "Listen to me, (you) wooers of the famous queen, so that I may say what the heart in my breast bids me. Not without the help of the gods has this man come to the palace of Odysseus; in any case it seems to me that there is bright light burning down from his head, for (there is) no hair on it, not even a trace."  

So he spoke and at once he addressed Odysseus, sacker of cities: "Stranger, pray would you be willing to work for hire, if I were to take you to an outlying farm - you would have a proper wage, of course -  building walls and planting tall trees? There I would provide (you) with plenty of food, and put clothes on you and give you sandals for your feet. But, since you have only learned (to do) evil deeds, you will not want to do farm-work, but you will be willing to go grovelling about through the land, so you will be able to feed your insatiable belly."   

Ll. 365-393. Odysseus provokes Eurymachus.

Then, the quick-witted Odysseus spoke to him in answer: "Eurymachus, if only there could be a contest between us two in farm work in the spring time, when the long days come around, and I should be wielding a well-curved scythe in a hayfield, and you should have a similar one, and there should be (plenty of) grass, so that we could test our work, fasting completely until it is utterly dark. And would that there might be cattle to drive, the best that there are, tawny (and) large, both well filled with grass, of like age and of equal strength, and their strength should not be easily exhausted, and there might be a four-acre field, and the earth should break up under the plough; then, you should see me, whether I could cut a straight furrow. Or would that the son of Cronos might start a war somewhere on this very day, and I had a shield and two spears and a wholly bronze helmet fitting together around my temples; then would you see me mingling among the foremost fighters, nor would you speak in reproach of my belly. But you are very insolent, and you have the heart of a bully; and, forsooth, you think you are someone great and strong, because you consort with a few (men), and (they are) not distinguished. But, if Odysseus should return and come to his native-land, soon would those doors, wide though they are, prove too narrow (for you) as you flee through the porch to the doorway."

So he so he spoke, and Eurymachus flared up all the more angrily in his heart, and, looking at him with a scowl, he spoke these winged words to (him): "Ah, you poor wretch, soon I will do you damage for saying such (things so) boldly in front of so many men, nor do you have any fear in your heart; to be sure, the wine has addled your heart, or else your mind is always like this; and so you talk rubbish. Or has it gone to your head that you overcame that vagrant Irus?"  

Ll. 394-428. Telemachus quietens the suitors. 

So saying, he (i.e. Eurymachus) seized a footstool; but Odysseus, in fear of Eurymachus, squatted at the knees of Amphinomus of Dulichium; and so he struck a cup-bearer on the right hand; and the wine-jug fell to the ground with a clang, and he fell on his back in the dust with a groan. Then the suitors caused an uproar throughout the shadowy halls, and thus did someone speak as he glanced at another man nearby: "If only that wandering stranger had died elsewhere before he came (here); then, he should never have brought so great a commotion among (us). But now we are quarrelling about beggars, nor shall there be any delight in our rich feast, since worse things prevail."

Then among them spoke the strong and mighty Telemachus: "You've gone mad, (you) fine fellows, and no longer conceal in your hearts (the effect) of your eating and drinking; now one of the gods is urging you on. But, now that you have feasted well, go to your homes and lie down whenever the spirit moves (you); but still I am driving no one out."  

So he spoke, and they all bit their lips with their teeth, and they were amazed at Telemachus, that he should speak (to them) so boldly. Then, Amphinomus spoke, and addressed them, (he who was) the famous son of the noble Nisus, son of Aretias: "My friends, after the right word has been spoken, let no man assail (another) with wrangling words and speak harshly, and let no one maltreat the stranger, or any one of the servants that (are) in the household of the divine Odysseus. But come, let the wine-steward pour the first drops in the cups, so that we can go home to bed; and let us leave the stranger in the palace of Odysseus to the care of Telemachus; for (it is) to his house that he came." 

So said he, and the words (that) he spoke (were) pleasing to everyone. The noble Mulius, a herald from Dulichium, mixed them a bowl (of wine), and he was the squire of Amphinomus, and he served (them) all, standing over each (of them) in turn; and they made libations to the blessed gods, and drank the honey-sweet wine. Then, when they had made their libations and drank as much as their hearts desired, they went on their way, each (man) to his own house to go to bed. 


Friday 13 October 2023

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVII: ODYSSEUS GOES TO THE CITY

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVII: ODYSSEUS GOES TO THE CITY. 

Introduction:

Book XVII sees the commencement of the 38th day of action in the story of the Odyssey, when the three main protagonists, Odysseus, Telemachus and Penelope, first come together. Telemachus sets out from the farmstead to the city, followed by Eumaeus and Odysseus, once more disguised by Athene in the form of a beggar. Telemachus is welcomed home by his mother, to whom he gives an account of his journey to Pylos and Sparta. He brings Theoclymenus to the palace, and the latter prophesies that Odysseus has already reached Ithaca. While the suitors continue to entertain themselves in the palace, Eumaeus arrives in the city together with the disguised Odysseus, whom the goatherd Melanthius mocks and kicks. Eumaeus enters the palace, and Odysseus eventually follows him, and Telemachus encourages him to go among the suitors begging for food. Antinous, one of the leaders of the suitors, criticises Eumaeus for bringing a beggar with him into the city, and, when Odysseus presses him for alms, he flings a stool at him and hits him on the shoulder. Penelope then prays for Antinous' death. When she sends for Odysseus to see if he has any news of her husband, he postpones his meeting with her until the others have left. At the end of the Book, Eumaeus goes back to the farmstead.

A particularly moving incident, for which Book XVII is well-known, concerns the death of Odysseus' foxhound, Argus, after he has wagged his tail and dropped his ears when he recognises his master after an absence of twenty years (see ll. 290-327). It is important to remember at this point that no one else, apart from Telemachus, has managed to recognise Odysseus, but his dog does. No wonder Odysseus sheds a tear!   

Ll. 1-44. Telemachus goes to the palace. 

As soon as the early-born rosy-fingered Dawn appeared, then did Telemachus, the dear son of divine Odysseus, bind his fair sandals beneath his feet and take up his mighty spear that fitted (so well) in the palm of his hand, and, as he set out for the city, he said to his swineherd (i.e. Eumaeus): "Now, old boy, I am definitely going to the city, so that my mother shall see me; for I do not think that she will ever stop her terrible lamentation and her tearful wailing, until she sees me in the flesh; but to you I give these instructions. Take this unfortunate stranger to the city, so that he may beg for meals there; (anyone) who wants to will give him a loaf and a cup (of water); but as for me, in no way can I burden myself with (the needs of) all men, when I still have (so many) troubles on my mind; and, if the stranger is very annoyed by this, it will be the worse for him; for to me indeed (it is) important to tell the truth."    

Then, Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, spoke to him in response: "My friend, let me tell you, I myself have no wish to be left behind; it is better for a beggar to beg for food in a city than in the countryside; there (he,) who wishes to, will give (it) to me. For I am no longer of an age to abide on a farmstead, so as to obey in every way the instructions of an overseer. But go your way; and this man, whom you have instructed, will bring me (along), just as soon as I have been made hot from the fire and the sun's warmth has arrived. For I am wearing these terribly thin garments; (and I am afraid) that the morning hoar-frost might overcome me; and you have said that the city is far away."  

So she spoke, and Telemachus went through the farmstead, moving rapidly on his feet, and planting evil (seeds) for the suitors. But, when he came to the stately house, he stood his spear (in its place), propping (it) against a tall pillar, and he himself went straight inside and stepped over the stone threshold. 

And the nurse Eurycleia (was) by far the first (to) see him, as she was spreading fleeces on the richly-wrought chairs, and then, bursting into tears, she came straight (towards him); and the other maids of stout-hearted Odysseus gathered round and kissed his head and shoulders with great affection.  

Then, from her bed-chamber came the wise Penelope, like Artemis or golden Aphrodite, and, bursting into tears, she flung her arms around her beloved son, and kissed his head and both his lovely eyes, and, as he wept, she spoke these winged words to (him): "You have come, Telemachus, sweet light (of my eyes). I thought I should never see you more, when you went secretly in that ship to Pylos, against my wishes, to hear about your dear father. But, come (now), tell me, whether you gained a sight of him." 

Ll. 45-83. Telemachus meets Piraeus and Theoclymenus.

Then, the thoughtful Telemachus said to her in reply: "Mother of mine, do not make me cry, nor arouse the heart in my breast, when I have just escaped utter destruction; but go to your room upstairs with your handmaidens, and bathe yourself and take clean raiment for your body, and vow to all the gods that you will offer (them) complete hecatombs (i.e. sacrifices of a hundred oxen), in the hope that Zeus would perform deeds of reckoning. But I will go to the place of assembly, so that I may summon a stranger, one that accompanied me from that place when I returned here (i.e. Theoclymenus). I sent him ahead (of me) with my godlike companions, and I bid Peiraeus to take him to his home and treat him with kindness and respect until I came."   

So he spoke, but in her case speech stayed unwinged (i.e. she made no response). Then, she bathed herself and took clean raiment for her body, and vowed to all the gods that she would offer (them) complete hecatombs, in the hope that Zeus would perform deeds of reckoning.  

Then, Telemachus strode out through the hall, holding his spear; and two swift-footed dogs followed after him. And Athene shed a wondrous grace upon him; and all people gazed at him as he went by. The haughty suitors gathered around him, speaking kind (words), but plotting evil (things) in the depths of their hearts. Now, he then avoided the dense throng of these (men), but went and sat down at the place where Mentor, and Antiphus, and Halitherses were sitting, those who were friends of his father from of old; then, Peiraeus, the famous spearman, came near, leading his guest (i.e. Theoclymenus) through the city to the place of assembly, and Telemachus did not turn away from his guest at all, but stood at his side. But Peiraeus (was) the first (to) speak, and said to him: "Telemachus, do send some women to my house straightaway, so that I may send you the gifts that Menelaus gave you."

Then, the cautious Telemachus said to him in reply: "(No,) Peiraeus, because we do not know what are those things that are going to happen. If the haughty suitors shall slay me secretly in my hall, and divide all my father's goods among themselves, I would wish that you yourself should keep and enjoy (them), rather than one of them; but, if, in their case, I shall sow the seeds of death and fate, then gladly bring (them) to my house, and I shall rejoice." 

Ll. 84-119. Telemachus tells his mother about his trip to Pylos and Sparta. 

So saying, he led his long-suffering guest to the house. Now, when they came to the stately palace, they put down their cloaks on the couches and chairs and stepped into the well-polished bath-tubs. And so, when the maidservants had bathed them and anointed (them) with oil, and they cast their fleecy cloaks and tunics around (them), they got out of the bath-tubs and sat on the couches. Then, a handmaid brought water in a fine golden jug and poured (it) out over a silver basin, so they could rinse their hands; and  she drew up a polished table beside (them). Then, the venerable housekeeper brought bread and set (it) before (them), and she put down much meat, giving freely of the stores she had available. And his mother sat opposite (them) by the door-post of the hall, reclining on a couch, while spinning the delicate wool on her distaff. And they put forth their hands (i.e. they helped themselves) to the well-prepared food lying in front of (them), and, when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, wise Penelope began speaking to them: "Telemachus, I certainly am going upstairs and I shall lie on my bed, which has become for me a place of sorrow, ever wetted by my tears, from (the time) when Odysseus went to Ilium with the sons of Atreus; but you did not take it upon yourself, before the haughty suitors came into this house, to tell me plainly of your father's return, if perhaps you have heard of it." 

Then, thoughtful Telemachus said to her in reply: "Well then, mother, I shall tell you the (whole) truth. We went to Pylos and to Nestor, shepherd of the people; and he received me in his lofty house and welcomed (me) in a kindly manner, as if (he were) a father (and I were) his son, just now returned from another place after a long absence; so he took care of me in a kindly manner, together with his renowned sons (i.e. Thrasymedes and Peisistratus). But of stout-hearted Odysseus, (whether) alive or dead, he said nothing at all; but he sent me on my way to the famous spearman Menelaus, son of Atreus, with horses and a close-fitting chariot. There I saw Helen of Argos, for whose sake the Argives and the Trojans suffered (so) much by the will of the gods. 

Ll. 120-165. Theoclymenus prophesies Odysseus' presence.

And then all at once Menelaus, good at the war-cry, asked (me) for what reasons had I come to lovely Lacedaemon; so I told him the whole truth; and then in answer he spoke to me in these words: 'For shame, so they want to go to sleep in the brave man's bed, the cowards that they are. And, as when a deer has put to sleep her (two) newly-born milk-sucking fawns in the lair of a mighty lion, and has gone to examine the slopes and grassy dales for pasture, and then back he (i.e. the lion) comes to his bed, and a grisly fate will be inflicted on them both, so Odysseus will let loose a grisly fate on those (men). For, (O) Father Zeus, and Athene, and Apollo, would that he were such (a man) as once in well-built Lesbos stood up to Philomeleides in wrestling-match, and brought (him) down with a mighty throw, and all the Achaeans were delighted, would there be such a man (as) Odysseus to meet with the suitors; then there would be an early destruction and a bitter marriage for all (of them). But of those (things) which you ask and beseech of me, I shall not turn aside from these and speak of other (things), nor shall I deceive (you), but those (things) that the unerring old man of the sea said to me, I will not hide or conceal (one) word of these from you. He said that he had seen him on an island in great distress in the palace of the nymph Calypso, who keeps him (there) by force; and he cannot reach his own native-land. For (he has) no ships with oars and crewmen, who can escort him over the broad back of the sea.'  

"So spoke Menelaus, son of Atreus, the famous spearman. When I had brought this discussion to an end, I set out for home; and the immortals gave me a favourable wind and brought me quickly back to my beloved native-land." 

So he spoke, and stirred the heart in her breast. Then, the godlike Theoclymenus joined in their conversation: "O honoured wife of Laertes' son, Odysseus, he (i.e. Menelaus) certainly does not know the truth, but do you take heed of my words: for I will prophesy to you truthfully, nor will I conceal (anything); now let Zeus before all other gods, and this board of hospitality and the hearth of peerless Odysseus, to which I have come, be my witnesses that Odysseus (is) actually already (here) in his native-land, (either) sitting or on the move, and he is learning of these evil deeds and sowing the seeds of destruction for all the suitors. Such a bird of omen did I observe as I sat on our well-benched ship and proclaim to Telemachus." 

Then, wise Penelope said to him: "Stranger, may this word (of yours) be fulfilled; then you would soon become aware of many kindnesses and gifts from me, so that anyone who meets you would call you blessed."    

Ll. 166-203. Odysseus sets out for the city. 

So they spoke such (words) as these to one another, and the suitors were enjoying themselves throwing quoits and javelins on the levelled terrace in front of the palace of Odysseus, where they had previously displayed their arrogance. But, when it was the time for eating dinner, and the flocks came in from the fields on all sides, and those who (had) previously (done) so led (them in), then Medon spoke to them (thus); for of (all) the heralds he was most to their liking, and he was present at all their feasts: "Young men, since you have all been gladdened at heart by these sporting contests, come to the house, in order that we may prepare a feast; for (it is) no bad thing to take one's meal at the right time." 

So he spoke, and they arose and went their way, and they obeyed his words. And, when they came to the stately house, they put down their cloaks on the couches and chairs, and, in preparing for a banquet, they slaughtered some large rams and fat goats, and they slaughtered some fatted hogs and a heifer belonging to the herd. Now, Odysseus and the goodly swineherd were hastening to come from the country to the city. And the swineherd, that master of men, was the first to speak: "Stranger, since you are still eager to go to the city today, as my master (i.e. Telemachus) has commanded - (though) in truth I would rather have left you here to protect the farmstead; but him I respect and fear, lest he should scold me afterwards; for rebukes from one's master can be most painful - but come now, let us go; for the day is far gone, and in your case it will probably become colder towards evening."

Then, Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, said to him in reply: "I understand, I agree; you are giving these instructions to someone who knows. But (come), let us go, and then you must lead all the way. But do give me a staff to lean on, if perhaps you have one cut, since you certainly said that the path was a very slippery (one)."  

So he spoke, and he threw his unseemly knapsack around his shoulders, closely-packed (and) ragged (it was); and it had a twisted strap; and then Eumaeus gave him a staff to his liking. The two (of them) set forth, and the dogs and the herdsmen stayed behind to guard the farmstead; and he led his master to the city in the likeness of a sad old beggar, leaning on a staff; and miserable (was) the raiment (that) he wore around his body. 

Ll. 204-246. Melanthius taunts Odysseus. 

But, when, as they walked along the rugged path, they were near to the city, and they came to a well-made fair-flowing fountain, from where the citizens drew their water, which Ithacus, and Neritus and Polyctor had made; and around (it) there was a grove of poplars, that grow by the waters, encircling (it) on all sides, and cold water flowed down from the rock above, and on top of (it) was built an altar to the nymphs, where all those going by made offerings; there Melanthius, son of Dolius, came upon them, as he was driving his she-goats, that were the best in all the herds, (to be) a meal for the suitors; and two herdsmen followed after (him). And, when he saw them, he spoke and addressed them, and he taunted them with rude and abusive words; and he stirred the heart of Odysseus:  

"So, now in very truth, the vile wholly leads the vile, (and,) as ever, heaven is bringing like to like (together). Where, then, are you leading this greedy pig, you wretched swineherd, this nauseating beggar who will bring trouble to our feasts? (He is the sort of man) who will stand and rub his shoulders on many doorposts, begging for scraps (of food), not swords or cauldrons (i.e. the sort of gifts that a respectable visitor might expect to  receive); if you would give him to me to be a guard of my farmstead, and to be a cleaner of the stables, and to carry shoots to the kids on a regular basis, then, (by) drinking whey, he might put big muscles on his thighs, But, since he has learned evil deeds, he does not wish to look for work, but he would rather (go) grovelling around the land begging for (something) to feed his gluttonous belly. But this I shall say to you, and it will also come to pass, that, if he comes to the palace of the divine Odysseus, a shower of footstools (shied) about his head from the hands of men will be broken on his ribs as he is pelted through the house."

So he (i.e. Melanthius) spoke, and, as he passed, in his folly he kicked him (i.e. Odysseus) on the hip with his foot; yet he did not drive him off the path, but he remained steadfast; and Odysseus pondered whether he should leap at (him) and take away his life with his staff, or lift (him) up by the middle and dash his head on the ground. But he managed to control himself, and he kept his instincts under check; but the swineherd (i.e. Eumaeus) looked him in the face, and, lifting up his hands, he prayed aloud: "(O) nymphs of the fountain, daughters of Zeus, if ever Odysseus burnt (as an offering) on your altar the thigh-bones of lambs or kid-goats, wrapped up in their rich fat, grant me this wish: that that man may come back, and that some god may guide him; then he would disperse all your vain practices, which, in your insolence, you have now picked up, ever since you have wandered around the town; meanwhile, incompetent herdsmen are destroying your flocks."

Ll. 247-289. Odysseus reaches the palace. 

Then, Melanthius the goatherd answered him: "For shame, how speaks the cur, full of mischief (as he is); one day I will take him on a well-benched ship far from Ithaca, so that he make make me much money. If only Apollo of the silver bow would smite Telemachus today in the halls, or he might be slain by the suitors, as surely as for Odysseus the day of his return from a far land has been lost."

Thus speaking, he left them there as they walked gently on, but he went on his way, and quite quickly came to the king's palace. At once, he went inside, and sat down amongst the suitors opposite Eurymachus; for he (i.e. Eurymachus) had quite a liking for him (i.e. Melanthius). (Those) who served placed a helping of meat beside him, and the trusty housekeeper brought some bread to eat and set it down before (him). As they drew near, Odysseus and the goodly swineherd came to a halt, and about them rang the sound of the hollow lyre; for Phemius was preparing to sing to them; then, taking the swineherd by the arm, he (i.e. Odysseus) said to (him): "Now in very truth, Eumaeus, this is the beautiful house of Odysseus; it is easy to recognise and to pick out among many (dwellings). One (building) leads to another, and the courtyard has been built with a wall and coping (stones), and its gates are well-protected; no one man could storm it. And I know that many men are preparing feasts within it, since the odour of meat mounts up, and the lyre sounds within (it), and the gods made it a companion of banquets."   

And to him, swineherd Eumaeus, did you say in reply: "You found (it) easily, since you are not without understanding of all these (things). But come now, let us consider how these deeds (of ours) will happen. Either you go into the stately palace first, and join the suitors, and I shall stay here; or, if you prefer, you wait here, and I will go in before (you); but do not linger for long, lest someone should see you from outside and throw (something at you) and drive (you) away; and I bid you think about this."

And then, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus answered him: "I understand, I agree; now indeed you are giving instructions to one who knows. But you go in first, while I shall remain here. For I am not at all unused to knocks and blows; staunch (is) my heart, since I have suffered many bad (things) on the waves and in war; let these (woes) also be added to those; for it is not possible to hide away a ravenous belly, a curse that brings many troubles upon men, and, on account of it too, well-benched ships are launched on the barren sea to bring evil (things) to their enemies."  

Ll. 290-335. The death of Argus. 

Thus did they speak these (things) to each other; and the hound raised his head and (pricked up) his ears; Argus (it was), belonging to stout-hearted Odysseus, whom he himself had once reared, nor did he cease to care for (him), before he went to holy Ilium. And in those days, young men used to take him to (hunt) wild goats, and deer, and hares. But now he lay, abandoned, his master having gone away, on the piles of dung from the mules and oxen which lay in front of his gates, (waiting) until Odysseus' servants should take (it) away (as) manure for his great estate. There lay the hound Argus, full of ticks. Yet even now, when he realised that Odysseus was (standing) nearby, he wagged his tail and dropped both his ears, but he no longer had the strength to come nearer to his master; then he (i.e. his master Odysseus) looked aside and wiped away a tear, easily escaping Eumaeus' notice, and, straightway, asked him this question: "(It is) certainly very strange, Eumaeus, that this hound should be lying in dung. His body is a fine (one), but this I do not clearly know, whether he had the speed to match this fine appearance, or whether (he was) of the kind that men's table dogs are; and their masters look after them on account of their handsome appearance."   

To him, swineherd Eumaeus, did you say in reply: "This (is) very much the hound of a man who died in a distant land. If he had the body and the vigour, such as he (had) when Odysseus left (him) to go to Troy, you would immediately be full of admiration, when you saw his speed and his strength. For no creature whichever (one) he chased, could ever escape (him) in the depths of a thick forest; for he also excelled in tracking (i.e. hunting by scent). But now he is in an evil plight, and his master has perished in a place other than his native-land, and the thoughtless women do not look after him. Now, servants, when their masters are no longer in a position to order (them) around, are thenceforth no longer minded to work properly; for far-seeing Zeus takes away half of a man's goodness, whenever the day of servitude takes hold of him."  

So saying, he (i.e. Eumaeus) entered the stately palace and made his way straight to the hall to join the illustrious suitors. But as for Argus, the fate of black death took hold of him, at the moment when he saw Odysseus after twenty years. 

Now, the godlike Telemachus was by far the first to see him, as the swineherd came through the chamber, and then he quickly called (him) to his (side) with a nod; then, having looked around (him), he (i.e. Eumaeus) picked up a stool that had been placed there, where the carver used to sit when he carved many (helpings) of meat for the suitors in the hall as they feasted; this he took and placed at Telemachus' table opposite (him), and there he sat down on (it) himself; then, a herald took a portion (of meat) and set it before (him), and served (him) bread from a basket.  

Ll. 336-379. In his disguise as an old beggar, Odysseus goes among the suitors.  

Odysseus went into the palace right after him, in the form of a woeful and aged beggar supported by a stick; and wretched was the raiment on his body. And he sat down on the ashen threshold inside the doorway, leaning on a pillar of cypress-wood, which a carpenter had once skilfully planed, and made straight by a plumb-line. Then, Telemachus called the swineherd to his (side) and taking a whole loaf  from the beautiful basket (of bread), and as much meat, as his hands in their encumbered (state) could hold, he said to (him): "Take this (food) and give (it) to the stranger, and bid (him) go to every single one of the suitors to beg; for (it is) not good for a needy man to be diffident."

So he spoke, and, when he heard these words, the swineherd went and came up close (to him) and spoke these winged words: "Telemachus gives you this (food), stranger, and tells you to go to everyone one of the suitors and beg; and he says it is not a good (thing) for a man (who is) asking for gifts (to be) diffident." 

And the quick-witted Odysseus said to him in response: "Lord Zeus, I pray that Telemachus may be blessed among men, and that all (the things) he desires in his heart may happen to him. So he spoke, and took the (food) in both (hands) and put (it) down on his shabby leather bag somewhere in front of his feet, and he ate (his meal) while the minstrel sang in the hall; when he had eaten (his meal), and the divine bard was coming to the end of his song, then the suitors caused an uproar in the hall. But Athene came up close to the side of Laertes' son Odysseus, (and) urged (him) to go among the suitors collecting food, and (so) he would learn which of them were decent and which (of them were) rotten; but this did not mean that she would save anyone of them from destruction. And he went his way from left to right, begging each man (as he went), stretching out his hands, as if he had long been a beggar. And they gave out of pity, and marvelled at the man, and they asked one another who he was and from where he came.  

Then, among them spoke Melanthius, the herder of goats: "Hear me, (you) wooers of our famous queen, with regard to this stranger; for I have certainly seen him before. In truth, (it was) the swineherd (who) led him here, but of (the man) himself I really do not know where he claims he was born."

So he spoke, and Antinous rebuked the swineherd in these words: "O (you) notorious swineherd, why did you bring this man into the city? Do we not have plenty of vagabonds and other troublesome beggars to mar our feasts? Surely you are (sufficiently) fed up (with the fact) that (men) gather here and devour your master's livelihood, without you also having invited this man in as well?"     

Ll. 380-423. Odysseus presses Antinous to be generous to him. 

To him, then, swineherd Eumaeus, did you say in reply: "You do not speak fair (words), Antinous, noble though you are; for who of his own accord ever approaches and calls upon some stranger from abroad, unless he is one of those public workers, a seer, or a healer of ills (i.e. a physician), or a builder in timber (i.e. a carpenter), or even a divine minstrel, who can give delight when he sings? For such men are welcomed all over the world; but, of all the suitors, you are always the most harsh to Odysseus' servants, and especially to me in particular; but I care not, so long as Penelope, thoughtful (as she is) to me, and godlike Telemachus are living in the palace."

Then, wise Telemachus said to him in response: "Be quiet, do not, I bid you, exchange many words with this (man); for Antinous is ever wont to rouse (men) to anger in an evil manner with harsh words, and he stirs up the others too." 

So then he also spoke these winged words to Antinous: "Antinous, truly did you care well for me, like a father for his son, when you ordered the stranger to be driven from the palace with forceful words; may the god never allow that to happen. Take and give him (something yourself); I do not grudge you (that); indeed I urge (you to do it); so do not fear offending my mother in that respect, or any other of the servants, who are in the household of divine Odysseus. But you have no such thought in your mind; for you are far more inclined to eat yourself than to give to another."

Then, Antinous said to him in reply: "Telemachus, (you) braggart, with an irrepressible spirit, what a (thing) you have said. If all the wooers would hand him as much (as I have), then this house would keep him at a distance for three months." 

So he spoke, and he seized the footstool, on which he extended his shiny feet as he feasted, and drew it from under the table where it lay; but the rest (of them) all gave (gifts) and filled the leather bag with bread and bits of meat; now Odysseus was just about to go back to the threshold and to have made trial of the Achaeans without cost; but he paused beside Antinous, and said these words to him: "Give (me something), my friend; you do not seem to me to be the basest of the Achaeans, but the best (of them), since you look like a king. Therefore, it is also meet that you should give a better (portion) of food than the others; and I shall make you famous throughout the boundless earth. For I too once lived in a house among men, a rich (man) in a wealthy (house), and I often used to give to a vagrant such as myself, whoever he might be, and with whatever needs he might come. And I had slaves past counting, and many other (things), on account of which (men) live well and are reputed wealthy.   

Ll. 424-461. Antinous becomes angry. 

"But Zeus, son of Cronos, ruined my life - for he surely willed (it) - for he made me go to Epypt together with roving pirates (on) a long journey, so that I might be destroyed. And in the river of Egypt (i.e. the Nile) I moored my ships with their banks of oars on both sides. Then, in truth, I ordered my trusty comrades to remain there by the ships, and defend the ships, and I sent scouts to go in search of watch-towers. But they, giving way to wanton violence, and led on by their own vigour, began almost at once to ravage the very beautiful fields of the men of Egypt, and they carried off the women and little children, and slew the men; and their cry came quickly to the city. And, when they heard the shouting, the (people) came forth at the same time as dawn appeared; then the whole plain was filled with foot-soldiers and chariots and the flashing of bronze; and Zeus, who delights in thunder, threw my comrades into abject headlong flight, and no one had the courage to stand his ground against the foe; for threats surrounded (us) on every side. Then, they slew many of us with sharp bronze, and some they led inland alive, to work for them by compulsion. But me they gave to a friend to take to Cyprus, (namely) Dmetor, son of Iasus, who ruled Cyprus by force; and from there I have now come here in this (state), suffering much distress." 

Then, Antinous addressed him once more in reply: "What god has brought this pest here to spoil our dinner? Stand there in the middle far away from my table, lest you soon come to a sad kind of Egypt and Cyprus; what a bold and shameless beggar you are! You pester all (of us) in turn; and they give you (food) without thought, for no one (has) any restraint or scruple what it comes to giving freely of another man's (substance), since beside each man (there is) plenty."

Then, Odysseus, (the man) of many wiles, drew back and said to him: "Oh dear, it does not seem that your brains match your looks; you would not even give (a pinch of) salt from your larder to a retainer of yours, (you) who now sits at another man's (table) and cannot bring yourself to take a piece of his bread and give (it) to me; and yet there is plenty of it."

So he spoke, and Antinous waxed with anger right heartily, and, glancing (at him) from beneath (his brow), he spoke these winged words to him: "Now I do not think that you will go back and forth through this hall any longer in one piece, when you speak so critically."

Ll. 462-504. Odysseus is struck on the shoulder by a stool flung by Antinous. 

So he spoke, and, seizing the footstool, he flung (it at him and struck him on) the right shoulder, very low down near the back; but he stood firm just like a rock, nor did Antinous' missile make him reel, but he shook his head in silence, pondering evil (thoughts) in the depths of his mind. Then, he went back to the threshold and sat down, and he put down his well-filled leather bag, and spoke among the suitors (as follows): "Listen to me, (you) suitors of the illustrious queen, so that I may say what the heart in my breast bids (me). Verily, there is no pain of heart nor any grief, when a man is smitten fighting for his own property, whether for his oxen or his white sheep: but Antinous struck me for the sake of my wretched belly, that accursed (thing) that brings many evils upon men. But, if perhaps there are gods and (avenging) Furies for beggars, may the event of death come upon Antinous before his marriage."

Then, Antinous, the son of Eupeithes, addressed him again: "Sit still and eat, stranger, or go elsewhere, lest the young men shall drag you through the house by hand or foot and tear all (your skin) to ribbons, (because) you say such (things)."

So he spoke, but they were all filled with deep indignation; and so spoke one of the proud young men: "Antinous, (you did) not (do) well to strike that wretched vagrant, (and) accursed you would (surely) be, if perhaps he is some heavenly god. And gods in the guise of strangers from a foreign land do come in all kinds (of shapes) and visit the cities, observing both the wanton violence and the good order of men."    

So the suitors addressed (him), but he paid no attention to their words. And Telemachus nursed great grief in his heart at the smiting, but no tears fell to the ground from his eyelids, but he shook his head in silence, pondering evil (thoughts) in the depths of his mind. 

And so, when the very thoughtful Penelope heard of him being smitten in the hall, she spoke among her handmaids (as follows): "Would that Apollo the famous archer would smite you in the same manner as (you struck) him!" And again the housekeeper Eurynome said these words to her: "If only fulfilment might follow our prayers; not one of these (men) would reach Dawn on her beautiful throne." 

Then, the very thoughtful Penelope spoke to her again: "Enemies (are they) all, (dear) nurse, since they are hatching evil (plots); but Antinous especially is like black fate. Some wretched stranger roams through the house, begging men for alms; for want compels (him); there all the others filled his bag and gave (him gifts), but he (flung) a stool (and) struck (him) at the bottom of his right shoulder."   

Ll. 505-559. Penelope summons the stranger. 

So she spoke among her maidservants while sitting in her chamber; and the godlike Odysseus ate his meal; then, she called the goodly swineherd to her, and said: "Go, goodly Eumaeus, and tell the stranger to come hither, so that I may in some way greet him warmly and ask (him) whether he has perhaps heard of stout-hearted Odysseus or has seen him with his eyes; for he seems like (a man) who has wandered far."

To her then, swineherd Eumaeus, did you say in answer: "If only, (O) queen, the Achaeans would keep their silence; such (stories) does he tell as (indeed) would charm your very heart. For I had him for three nights, and for three days I kept (him) in my hut; for he came to me first, when he had escaped from his ship; but he had not yet brought to an end (the tale of) the sufferings of which he was speaking. And, as when a minstrel looks at a man, who sings lovely words taught to mortals by the gods, and they ceaselessly yearn to hear him, whenever he should sing; thus did he charm me as he sat in my hall. And he says that he is an old family friend of Odysseus, and that he lives in Crete, where is the race of Minos. From there he now comes here on this (journey), (ever) suffering woes as he wanders on and on; and he insists that he has heard of Odysseus close at hand and alive in the rich land of the men of Thesprotia; and he is bringing countless treasures to his home."

Then, wise Penelope said to him: "Go (and) call (him) here, so that he himself may tell (me) to my face. But let these (men) amuse themselves as they sit in my doorway or here in my house, since their hearts (are) merry. For their own possessions lie untouched in their homes, bread and sweet wine (that is); now their servants eat these (things), and they wander about in our (house) every day, sacrificing our oxen, and sheep and fat goats, and they recklessly revel in, and drink, the sweet wine; and this abundance is being exhausted. For (there is) no man such as Odysseus set up to stave off ruin from the house. But, if Odysseus were to return and come to his native-land, straightway would he, together with his son, take their vengeance on these men for their violent deeds."

As she finished speaking, Telemachus let out a loud sneeze, and it reverberated fearfully around the house; and Penelope laughed and immediately said these winged words to Eumaeus: "Go and call the stranger to me here face to face. Did you not notice that my son sneezed over all my words? So may endless death come upon the wooers, absolutely all (of them), nor shall any (of them) escape death and the fates. And another (thing) will I tell you, and do you keep (it) in your heart: if I should find that he is speaking all things truthfully, I shall clad him in the fine raiment of a cloak and tunic."

So she spoke, and the swineherd went his way when he heard these words; and coming up close (to him), he spoke these winged words: "Dear friend, Telemachus' mother, wise Penelope, summons you; her heart bids her ask (you) some (questions) about her husband, stricken with sorrows as she is. And, if she should find that you speak all (things) truthfully, she will clothe you in a cloak and tunic, the things of which you are most in need; and, as for food, you will feed your belly (by) begging (for it) in the town; and whoever wishes (to do so) will give (it) to you."

Ll. 560-606. Odysseus postpones his meeting with Penelope.

Then, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus said to him: "Eumaeus, soon I shall tell all the truth to the daughter of Icarius, wise Penelope; for well do I know about this (man) and the common affliction we have borne. But I am afraid of this throng of harsh suitors, whose insolence and violence reach the iron sky. For even now, when, as I was going through the hall doing no one any harm, this man struck me and caused (me) pain, neither Telemachus nor anyone else was able to do anything to prevent it. So now ask Penelope, eager though (she is) to see me, to wait in the halls till sunset; and then let her ask me about the day of her husband's return, as she sits me closer to the fire; for, look, the raiment (that) I wear (is) mean; now, this you know yourself, since I previously approached you as a suppliant."

So he spoke, and the swineherd went back, when he heard these words. And, as he went over the threshold, Penelope said to him: "You do not bring (him), Eumaeus; what did the vagabond mean by this? Is he excessively afraid of someone, perhaps, or does he feel shame in the house for some other reason (than fear)? But  a bad (thing it is) for a vagabond (to be) shame-faced."  

To her, then, swineherd Eumaeus, did you say in reply: "He says quite rightly such (things) as any other (man) wishing to avoid the wanton violence of these most insolent men would think. But he bids you wait till the setting of the sun. For you yourself, O queen, it is so much better to speak to the stranger and to hear his words alone." Then, the wise Penelope answered him: "The stranger (is) not without wisdom; he foresees how it may turn out; for, in my view, (there are) no (other) mortal men who devise such evil (schemes) as these insolent men (do) here."

So she spoke, and the goodly swineherd went his way into the throng of the suitors, when he had told (her) everything. And at once he spoke these winged words to Telemachus, holding his head close (to his), so that the others might not hear (what they were saying): "O friend, I am going forth to guard the swine and the (things) that are there (on the farm), your livelihood and mine; but do you take charge of everything here. Keep yourself safe first of all, and beware lest some (ill) should befall (you); for many of the Achaeans are devising evil (schemes), and may Zeus utterly destroy them before any harm can come to us."

Then, wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "So shall it be, old boy; go your way when you have supped;  and come in the morning and bring some fine victims; but everything here is of concern to me and the immortals."

So he spoke, and the (swineherd) sat down again on the well-polished bench, and, when he had satisfied his desire for food and drink, he went on his way back to the pigs, and left the courts and the hall full of guests; and they were enjoying their dancing and singing, for the evening of the day had already come upon (them). 




  














  





 








 






Saturday 8 July 2023

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVI: ODYSSEUS MEETS HIS SON TELEMACHUS.

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XVI: ODYSSEUS MEETS HIS SON TELEMACHUS.

Introduction:

The focal point of Book XVI is the reunion of Odysseus with his son Telemachus, and it is significant that for quite some time after this Telemachus is the only person on the island of Ithaca who knows that his father has returned. (In fact, it is not until towards the end of Book XIX that anyone else (i.e. his former nurse Eurycleia) recognises him.) After he arrives at the swineherd's hut, Telemachus sends Eumaeus off to the town to inform his mother that he has returned. In Eumaeus' absence, Odysseus is transformed by the goddess Athene into his true shape and Telemachus eventually realises that he is his father; after their emotional reunion, they begin to make plans for the destruction of the Suitors. In the meantime, a messenger from Telemachus' anchored ship meets Eumaeus on his way to Penelope, and together they give her the news that her son has returned from Pylos. The Suitors, having learned that their plan to ambush Telemachus has failed, begin to make alternative arrangements to deal with him. Penelope enters the Hall of her palace and denounces Antinous, one of the Suitors' leaders, for planning to kill her son, but another one of the Suitors, Eurymachus, then seeks to placate her. Meanwhile, the swineherd Eumaeus returns to his hut and rejoins Telemachus and Odysseus, whom Athene has now changed back into the form of a beggar again, so that Eumaeus should not recognise him. 

A particular feature of Book XVI is the attention given by Homer to the speeches made by the Suitors Antinous and Eurymachus towards the end of the Book. In a remarkably long speech (ll. 364-392) Antinous tries to gain the Suitors' support for the murder of Telemachus and the division of his property between them. After Penelope has publicly rebuked Antinous for his villainous plans, Eurymachus seeks to reassure her in a speech remarkable for its falseness, exaggeration and hypocrisy (ll. 435-447) that Telemachus has nothing to fear, while in fact he too is minded to kill him. The inclusion of these speeches at this point in the "Odyssey" can best be explained by the deaths of the two speakers in the dreadful slaughter of the Suitors in Book XXII. Perhaps Homer felt that revealing the wicked nature of these two men would help to justify the extreme punishment subsequently to be inflicted on them by his hero Odysseus. 

Ll. 1-43. Telemachus at Eumaeus' hut. 

Then, in the hut the two of them, Odysseus and the goodly swineherd, kindled a fire and were getting their breakfast ready at day-break, and they sent off the herdsmen with the pigs (they had) assembled; and the hounds were fawning around Telemachus yelping, but they did not bark as he approached. And godlike Odysseus noticed the hounds (were) fawning, and the sound of his footsteps came to (his ears). And, at once, then, he spoke these winged words to Eumaeus: "Eumaeus, surely some comrade of yours is about to arrive here, or, at least, someone well-known (to you), for the dogs are not barking but are fawning around (him); and I hear the sound of footsteps." 

Nor were these words yet fully spoken, when his dear son stood in the doorway. Then, the swineherd sprang up, full of amazement, and the vessels, with which he was engaged, as he mixed the flaming wine, fell from his hands. And he went to meet his lord, and kissed his forehead and both his sparkling eyes and his two hands; and he shed a big tear. And as a loving father greets his own dear son, coming from a far-off land in the tenth year, his darling only (son), for whom he has suffered much pain, so did the goodly swineherd then cling to godlike Telemachus and kiss (him) all over, like one who has escaped from death; and, as he wept, he addressed these winged words to (him): "You are come, Telemachus, sweet light of my eyes. I thought I should not see you any more, once you had gone in your ship to Pylos. But come now, come in, dear child, so that I may delight in my hear to see you are (here) in (my home), (having) recently (come) from somewhere else. For you do not often visit the farmstead and the herdsmen, but you stay in the town; for so it now gratifies your mind to look upon destroying that gang of suitor-men."

Then did wise Telemachus speak to him in reply: "So shall it be, father; for I came here on account of you, so that I might see you with my own eyes and hear your word as to whether my mother still abides in the palace, or whether some other man has already wedded (her), and Odysseus' bed doubtless lies covered with foul cobwebs for want of bed-clothes." 

Then did the swineherd, that leader of men, answer him:" Yes truly, she abides in your palace with a patient spirit; but the nights and days continue to pass by in sadness as she sheds tears."

So saying, he took his bronze spear from him; and he went inside and stepped over the stone threshold. And, as he entered, his father Odysseus got up from his seat; but Telemachus, from the other side (of the room), checked him and said, "Be seated, stranger; for we shall get a seat from elsewhere in our farmstead; and here (is) the man who will set (one) down." 

Ll. 46-89. Telemachus and Eumaeus discuss what arrangements should be made for the stranger.

So he spoke. And he went and sat down again; and the swineherd spread some green brushwood under him and a fleece on top. Then, Odysseus' dear son sat down there. Now the swineherd put beside them some slices of roast meat, which they had left over from their meal on the previous day, and they hurriedly heaped up bread in wicker baskets and then mixed sweet wine in a rustic wooden bowl; and he himself sat down opposite the godlike Odysseus. and they put out their hands (i.e. they helped themselves) to the food lying ready before (them). But when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, then did Telemachus address the goodly swineherd: "Father, where does this guest of yours come from? How did sailors bring him to Ithaca? Who did they claim to be? For in no way do I think that he came here on foot."

Then, swineherd Eumaeus, you said to him in reply: "Now then, everything I tell you, (will be) the truth, my child. He claims (to be) a native of the broad (island of) Crete, and says that he has roamed around as an outcast among many of the cities of mankind. For so (he said) has heaven spun the thread of his destiny. But just recently he managed to escape from a ship belonging to men of Thesprotia and came (here) to my farmstead, but I shall hand (him) over to you; you may do with him as you wish; and he claims to be your suppliant."

Then again, the wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "Eumaeus, in very truth these words you speak (are) mortifying (to me); for how then can I receive the stranger in my house? For I am young myself, and cannot yet rely on (the strength of) my hands to ward a man off, when someone older is angry (with me); the heart in my mother's breast is caught in two minds as to whether she should stay here with me and keep my house, out of respect for her husband's bed and public opinion, or whether she should go away with whichever man of the Achaeans is best at wooing her in the palace, and has offered the most wedding gifts. But I promise you, with regard to this stranger, that, since he has come to your house, I shall clothe him in fair raiment, a cloak and a tunic, and I will give (him) a two-edged sword and sandals for his feet, and I shall send him wheresoever his heart and soul tell (him to go). But, if you wish, you may keep (him here) at the farmstead and care for him, and there I shall send the clothes and all the food (for him) to eat, so he shall not exhaust you and your men. But I shall not permit him to come here and meet the suitors, for their reckless violence goes beyond all bounds; should they taunt him, that would be a terrible (source of) distress to me. It is difficult for a man to accomplish anything amongst a crowd, however strong he may be, since they are much more powerful (than he is)."  

Ll. 90-134. Odysseus expresses his opinion, and Telemachus plans to send Eumaeus to Penelope.

Then, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus addressed him once more: "My friend, it is surely now right for me to say something too, as verily my heart was rent asunder when I heard of the reckless conduct such as you say the suitors have committed in your halls, despite you being so (fine a man). Tell me, whether you are willingly oppressed, or whether the people hate you throughout the land, because they are complying with the oracle of a god, or whether you have cause to cast some of the blame upon your brothers, in whose fighting a man should trust, even if a great strife should arise. For if (only) I in my present spirit were as young as you are, (being) either the son of blameless Odysseus, or even (Odysseus) himself, having returned from his wanderings; for (there is) still room for hope; then let some strange man cut off my head at once, if I did not prove myself the bane of (i.e. kill) them all, when I came to the palace of Laertes' son, Odysseus. But, if they should overwhelm me by their numbers, alone as I was, I would rather die, slain in my own halls, than continually behold these shameful deeds, strangers being mistreated, and (men) dragging handmaidens in a shameful manner through these fair halls, and wine being wastefully drawn, and (men) endlessly devouring my bread to no purpose in the same way, with no end to the business (in sight)."

Then, wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "Well then, stranger, I will tell you (everything) totally in accordance with the truth. The people as a whole do not hate me, or bear (me) a grudge, nor have I any reason to blame my brothers, in whose fighting a man may trust, even if great strife should arise. For thus has the son of Cronos made single birth (the rule) in our (family): Arceisius (i.e. son of Zeus) begat Laertes (as) his only son, and, again, did his father begat Odysseus (as) his only (son), and Odysseus begot me (as) his only (son) and left (me) in these halls and had no joy (of me). So foes beyond counting are now in the house. For all the chieftains who hold sway over the islands, Dulichium, and Same and wooded Zacynthus, and those who lord (it) over rocky Ithaca, all these woo my mother and lay waste my house. And she neither rejects a hateful marriage, nor can she make an end (of it); and in their feasting they consume my property; and me myself they will soon bring to ruin also. But, in truth, these (things) lie on the knees (i.e. in the lap) of the gods; but do you go quickly, father (i.e. Eumaeus), and tell the prudent Penelope that she has me safe and sound, and that I have returned from Pylos. But I shall remain here, and do you come back here when you have told (her) alone; and no one of the other Achaeans can learn of (it); for (there are) many (who) are planning evil (things) for me."  

Ll. 135-185. Athene restores to Odysseus his proper appearance. 

Then, swineherd Eumaeus, you said to him in reply: "I see, I understand; you are saying these (things) to a thoughtful (man). But come, tell me this and declare (it) truly, should I go on the same journey (as) a messenger to Laertes also, that unlucky (man), who, in his great grief for Odysseus, used for a while to keep an eye on his farm and eat and drink with the farmhands in his house, when the spirit in his breast moved him; but now, ever since you went on a ship to Pylos, they say that he no longer eats and drinks as before, nor does he keep watch on the farm, but, with groaning and wailing, he sits in sorrow and the flesh withers around his bones."

Then, the wise Telemachus said to him again in reply: "(That's) too bad, but, despite our regrets, we must let him be; for, if it were possible for all (things) to be left to the choice of (us) mortals, we should choose first (of all) the day of my father's return. But do you come (straight) back after you have delivered your message, and do not go wandering across the fields in search of him; but ask my mother to send her busy housekeeper to (him) in secret as quickly as possible; for she might tell the old man." 

So he spoke, and he aroused the swineherd; and he took his sandals in his hands and bound (them) beneath his feet, and went to the city. Nor did it escape the notice of Athene that the swineherd Eumaeus had gone, but she drew near; and she came forth in the shape of a woman, tall and beautiful, and skilled in glorious accomplishments. And she stood just opposite the door of the hut, having made herself visible to Odysseus; but Telemachus neither saw (her) in front of him, nor became aware of her presence, for the gods appear in bodily shape to by no means all (men), but Odysseus and the dogs saw (her), and the (latter) did not bark but they retreated to the other side of the farmstead. Then, she signalled with her eyebrows; and godlike Odysseus noticed (this) and went out of the hall past the great wall of the courtyard and stood before her; then Athene addressed him: "Zeus-sprung son of Laertes, ever-resourceful Odysseus, now tell your story to your son and do not conceal (it), so that, when you have planned together the death and destruction of the suitors, you may go into the renowned city; nor will I myself be away from you for long, eager (as I am) for the battle."

As she spoke, she touched (him) (i.e. Odysseus) with a golden wand. First of all, she placed a well-washed cloak and tunic about his breast, and increased his stature and his youthful bloom. And again he grew dark in colour, and his jaws filled out (lit. stretched) and the beard grew dark around his chin. And, when she had done these things, she went away again; but Odysseus went into the hut; and his son marvelled at him, and, struck with fear, he turned his eyes aside, lest it should be a god, and he spoke to him and addressed (him) with these winged words: "Stranger, you seem to me (to be a person) other than (the one that you were) just a moment ago. In truth, you are a god, one (of those) who hold broad heaven; but be gracious, so that we may give you acceptable offerings and golden gifts, finely wrought; but (please) spare us."  

Ll. 186-224. Odysseus reveals his true identity to Telemachus. 

Then, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus said to him: "To be sure, I am not a god; why (then) do you liken me to the immortals? But I am your father, on whose account you have suffered many sorrows that have made you groan, and you have had to put up with men's violence."

So saying, he kissed his son, and tears ran down his cheeks to the ground; before that, he had always kept his feelings constantly under control.  Then, Telemachus, for he did not yet believe that it was his father, addressed him once more and said these words: "You are not my father Odysseus, but some demon is playing a trick on me, so that I may weep and wail still more. For no mortal man could possibly arrange these (things) through his own mentality, unless a god were to come (to him) himself, readily wanting to make (him) young or old. For just now, to be sure, you were an old man and you were wearing shabby (clothes); but now you are like the gods, who hold broad heaven."

Then, Odysseus, the man of many wiles, said to him in reply: "Telemachus, it is not right that you should be in any way surprised, or so exceedingly taken aback, that your father is inside (the house); for you can be sure that no other Odysseus will ever come here, but I, the man such as you see, after suffering misfortunes and much wanderings, have come in the twentieth year to my native land. But this, let me tell you, (is) the work of Athene, driver of the spoil, and she is accustomed to make me just as she pleases, for she has the power (to do so), at one moment like a beggar and then at another, (like) a young man and (one) wearing fine clothes around his body. And easy (it is) for the gods, who hold broad heaven, both to glorify a mortal man and to debase (him)."   

So saying, down he sat, and Telemachus, having embraced his noble father, cried out and shed tears, and in both of their (hearts) there arose a longing for lamentation; and they wailed aloud more vehemently than birds of prey, vultures or sea-eagles with crooked talons, whose chicks countryfolk have taken from (their nests) before they were fully fledged; thus did they let tears fall piteously from beneath their brows. And now would the light of the sun have gone down upon their weeping, if Telemachus had not suddenly said to his father: "But in what kind of ship, dear father, have sailors now brought you here to Ithaca? (And) who did they say they were? For in no way do I think that you came here on foot."    

Ll. 225-265. Odysseus and Telemachus make plans.

And the much-enduring godlike Odysseus answered him once more: "Well then, I shall tell you the truth. The Phaeacians brought me (here), those renowned sailors, who also send other men on their way, whoever lands on their (coasts). They brought me, even while I was asleep, across the sea in their swift ship and landed (me) on Ithaca, and they gave me splendid gifts, heaps of bronze and gold, and woven garments. And, by the grace of the gods, these (gifts) are lying in caves; now I have come here at the bidding of Athene, so that we could plan the destruction of our enemies. But come now, count up the suitors, and list (them) for me, so that I may know how many, and what kind of men, they are, and so that I may ponder thoughtfully in my noble heart whether we two will be strong enough to take them on alone without others, or whether we shall need to look for others also."

Then, wise Telemachus addressed him in reply: "O Father, I have always heard of your great fame, that you are strong in arm and sage in counsel; but (what) you have said (is) too great; amazement takes hold of me: it cannot be that two men could fight so many (men) and such strong (ones); and of the suitors (there are) not exactly ten or twice that number, but many more: you shall quickly know their number here and now. From Dulichium (there are) fifty-two selected young men, and six working men accompany (them); and from Same there are twenty-four young men, and from Zacynthus there are twenty Achaean youths, and from Ithaca itself there are twelve, all its best, and with them there is Medon, the herald and divine minstrel, and two attendants skilled in carving meat. If we shall encounter all of these within (the halls, take care), lest bitter and dire will be the consequences when you come to take revenge on their violence. But, see if you can think of any helper, who could assist the two of us with a ready heart."

Then, the much enduring godlike Odysseus replied to him once more: "Well then, I will tell (you), and do you take heed and hearken to my (words); now consider whether Athene with her father Zeus can protect the two of us, or whether I should have another helper in mind."

Then, wise Telemachus spoke to him again in reply: "Good indeed (are) those two helpers, of whom you speak, though high in the clouds do they sit; and they rule over all other men and the immortal gods alike."

Ll. 266-307. Odysseus gives Telemachus his orders. 

Then, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus answered him: "For sure, it will not be a long time (before) those two are in the thick of the battle, whenever the warlike spirit is put to the test in my halls between the suitors and ourselves. But, as soon as dawn appears, do you now go to your home and join the company of the haughty suitors. But the swineherd will lead me to the city later on, in the likeness of a wretched old beggar. And, if they should insult me in your house, let the heart in your breast endure me being mistreated, even if they drag (me) by the feet through the house to the door, or throw missiles (at me). But you shall indeed bid (them) cease their folly, seeking to dissuade (them) with soothing words; but in no way will they listen to you; for their fateful day is at hand. And another (thing) will I tell you, and do you lay (it) in your heart: when Athene, rich in counsel, shall put (it) in my mind, I shall nod to you with my head, and, when you see (this), do you take up absolutely all of these war implements that lie in your halls and stow (them) in a corner of the upstairs store-room; but you must reassure the suitors with placatory words, when they shall miss (them) and question you; (You can say:) 'I have rescued (them) from the smoke, since they are no longer like those that Odysseus once left behind when he went to Troy, but they have been badly damaged, inasmuch as the breath of the fire has reached (them). And, furthermore, the son of Cronos has even put this greater (fear) in my heart, that, in a drunken state, you might perhaps start a quarrel among yourselves, and wound one another, and (so) put to shame your feasts and your wooing; for iron itself lures men on.' But for us two alone you must leave behind two swords and two spears, and two ox-hide shields for us to grasp in our hands, so that we may rush upon (them) and seize (them); and then Pallas Athene and Zeus the counsellor will beguile (them). And another (thing) will I tell you, and do you lay (it) in your heart: if indeed you are my (son) and of our blood, then let no one hear that Odysseus is at home, and so neither let Laertes know it, nor the swineherd, nor any of the household, nor Penelope herself, but you and I, by ourselves, will learn the attitude of the women (servants); let us also make trial of any of the serving men (that are) still (here), (to see) whether anyone of them honours us and fears (us) at heart, and who has no concern for us, and has no respect for you, such as you are."       

Ll. 308-350. Telemachus' ship makes harbour. 

Then, his noble son answered him and said: "You will surely come to know of my spirit by and by, I think; for thoughtlessness does not possess me in any way; but I do not think that this (plan) of yours will be to the benefit of us both; so, I bid you reconsider. For you will vainly go about for a long time, making trial of each man as you visit the farms; but in your halls those (men) are blithely devouring your substance in a wanton manner, and with (them) there is no sparing. But, of the women, I do indeed bid you learn both (those) who dishonour you, and (those) who are guiltless; yet, of the men in the farmsteads, I do not want us to make trial (of them), but to deal with these (things) later on, if you really do know of some portent of Zeus, who bears the aegis." 

Thus they spoke to each other about the situation, and then the well-built ship that brought Telemachus and all his companions from Pylos began to come in to land at Ithaca. And, when they came into its very deep harbour, they hauled the black ship on to the land, and proud squires carried away their gear, and straightway they brought the very beautiful gifts to (the house) of Clytius (i.e. the father of Peiraeus, the friend of Telemachus). Then, they sent out a herald to the house of Odysseus to bring a message to the prudent Penelope, that Telemachus (was) in the country, and had commanded the ship to sail on to the city, lest the noble queen might grow anxious in her heart, and let gentle tears drop down, and the two of them, the herald and the goodly swineherd, met face to face, while they were bearing the same message to the lady. But, when they reached the palace of the godlike king, the herald spoke out in the midst of the handmaids: "Now, let me tell you, my queen, your son has come back."    

But the swineherd came close to Penelope and told (her) everything that her son had told him to say. But, when he had said all (the things) that he had been told to say, he went his way among the pigs, and left both the courtyard and the hall.  

But the suitors were dismayed and downcast in spirit, and out of the hall they came past the great wall of the courtyard, and there they sat down before the gates. Then, Eurymachus, son of Polybus, began to speak to them: "My friends, surely a great deed has arrogantly been performed by Telemachus in this journey (of his); we did not think it could be achieved by him. But come (now), let us launch a black ship, the best one (we have), and let us gather seamen as rowers, that they may send word most quickly to those (men who are out there) to return home soon."

Ll. 351-392. Antinous suggests to the suitors that they should kill Telemachus. 

He had not yet said everything, when Amphinomus, turning around in his place, saw a ship in the very deep harbour, and men taking in the sail, and holding their oars in their hands. Then, with a burst of merry laughter, he addressed his comrades: "Let us not send a message any more; for they (are) back home. Either one of the gods told them of this, or they themselves saw the ship going past, but they could not catch her." 

So he spoke, and they arose and went to the shore of the sea, and they quickly dragged the black ship on land, and the high-spirited squires carried off their gear; then, they themselves went as a body to the place of assembly, and no one else would they allow to sit with them, either young (men) or old (ones).  Then, Antinous, son of Eupeithes, spoke among them: "What a shame it is that the gods have saved that man from destruction. All day long watchmen sat on the windswept mountain peaks one after another in a line; and, whenever the sun went down, we never slept ashore at night, but, sailing on the sea in our swift ship we awaited the bright dawn, lying in wait for Telemachus, so that we might catch and kill (the man) himself; and, in the meantime, some god has brought him home, but here and now let us devise a woeful death for him, Telemachus (that is), and let him not escape us; for, while that man lives, I do not think this business of ours will be accomplished. For (he) himself (is) shrewd both in council and in scheming, and the people no longer speak of us with any favour at all. But come (now), before he calls the Achaeans together to the place of assembly - for I do not think that he will let things go at all, but he will be full of wrath and will rise up among (them) all and tell how we planned his utter destruction, but did not catch (him); and, when they hear of our misdeeds, they will not approve of (them); there is a risk that they will do us some harm and drive us away from our native-land, and we shall come to the land of strangers; but let us act first and seize (him) in the country far from the city, or on the road; and we should keep his livelihood and his property, dividing (it) properly between us, but the house we should give back to his mother to hold, and (to the man) whom she should marry. But, if this suggestion is displeasing to you, and you want him to live and to keep all his father's (possessions), then let us not continue to gather together there in that house and consume his store of pleasant goods, but let each one of us seek to woo (her) from his own hall with his bridal gifts; and she would then wed the one who shall offer the most and (who) comes appointed by fate."  

Ll. 393-433. Penelope rebukes the Suitors. 

So he spoke and they all became hushed in silence. And Amphinomus sat in debate with them and spoke to (them); (he was) the splendid son of lord Nisus, son of Aretias, and he led the suitors from grassy Dulichium, rich in wheat, and he especially pleased Penelope with his words; for he was endowed with a kind disposition; he addressed (them) with good intent and spoke (these words) to them: "My friends, I surely would not wish to kill Telemachus; a dreadful (thing) it is to slay (one) born of royal blood; but first let us seek to know the will of the gods. If the oracles of almighty Zeus should acquiesce (in it), I myself will slay (him) and bid all the others (do so); but if the gods should turn away from (this), I bid you desist."  

So spoke Amphinomus, and his words were pleasing to them. Then they rose at once, and went to the house of Odysseus, and, going in, they sat down on the polished seats. 

Then, the wise Penelope had another thought, to show herself to the suitors in (all) their arrogant pride. For she had learned of the (intended) destruction of her son in their halls; for the herald Medon, who had heard of the plot, told her (about it). So she went on her way to the hall with her attendant women. But, when that most divine of women came to the wooers, she stood by the pillar of the strongly-built roof, and, having put her glistening veil before her cheeks, she addressed Antinous by name, and reproved (him) in these words: "Antinous, you (are) a pride-bearing schemer of evil, and yet (men) say that you are foremost among your contemporaries in the land of Ithaca in counsel and in speech; but (now we know that) you were not such (a man) after all. (You) madman, why do you plot the death and destruction of Telemachus, yet you show no care for the suppliants, for whom Zeus (is) witness? For (it is) a sacrilege for one (suppliant) to plot evil (things) against another. Or do you not know (of the time) when your father (i.e. Eupeithes) came to this house as a fugitive, in terror of the people? For, at that time, they were very angry with (him), because he had accompanied the Taphian pirates in harrying the Thesprotians; for the (latter) were in league with us; so, they wanted to slay him and deprive (him) of his life, and to devour his great and pleasant livelihood; but Odysseus held (them) back and protected (him), despite their eagerness. Now you are consuming his household without charge, and you are wooing his wife and seeking to slay his son, and you are causing me great distress; but (now) I am commanding you to stop (all this) and to tell the others (to stop as well)." 

Ll. 434-481. Eurymachus makes a treacherous speech; Eumaeus brings Telemachus the latest news about the Suitors' ship. 

Then did Eurymachus, son of Polybus, say to her in reply: "Daughter of Icarius, wise Penelope, keep your courage up; indeed, do not let these (things) cause your mind anxiety. The man does not exist, nor will he exist, nor will he (ever) be born, who shall lay his hands upon your son Telemachus, while I live (and breathe) and see (the light of day) upon the earth. For so I assure you, and it will surely come to pass: his black blood will soon be gushing around my spear, since Odysseus, the sacker of cities, often used to set me on his knees and put roasted meat in my fingers and offer (me) red wine. So, Telemachus is the dearest of all (men) to me, and I bid him have no fear of death at all, at least with regard to the suitors; but from the gods there is no escape." 

Thus he spoke to encourage (her), but he himself was plotting his death. So then, she went up to her glittering upper chamber, and, then, she wept for her beloved husband, until bright-eyed Athene cast sweet sleep upon her eyelids. 

In the evening the goodly swineherd returned to Odysseus and his son; now, they were busily preparing supper, having killed a yearling pig. Then, Athene came close to Laertes' son, Odysseus, and smote (him) with her wand and made (him) an old man once more, and she put dirty clothes around his body, lest the swineherd might recognise him if he saw (him) face to face, and go to prudent Penelope with the news, and not keep it secret in his mind. Now, Telemachus spoke to him first: "You have come, goodly Eumaeus. What, then, is the news in the town? Are those heroic suitors already back at home from that ambush, or are they still out there watching for me on my way home?"

Then, Eumaeus the swineherd, you said to him in reply: "I was not inclined to go down to the town, asking and inquiring about these (things); my heart bade me come back here, as soon as I had delivered my message. And a swift messenger from your companions accompanied me, a herald who was the first to give the news to your mother. And I know something else, let me tell you; for I saw it with my own eyes. As I was going on my way, I was now high above the city, where the hill of Hermes is, when I saw a swift ship coming into our harbour; and there were many men in her, and she was laden with shields and double-pointed spears; and I thought it was those very (men), but I do not know for sure."

So he spoke, and the supernaturally strong Telemachus smiled as he glanced with his eyes at his father, but he avoided (the eyes of) the swineherd. 

Now, when they had ceased from their labour and had prepared the meal, they feasted, nor did their hearts stand in any need of an equal feast. But, when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, they thought of rest and took the gift of sleep.