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. 

HOMER: "ILIAD": BOOK XV: THE ACHAEANS AT BAY.

HOMER: "ILIAD": BOOK XV: THE ACHAEANS AT BAY.

Introduction:

This book completes the three-book 'retardation' of the plot of the "Iliad" for the purpose of entertainment, which began with Book XIII, and like the previous two books Book XV is immensely enjoyable to read. The Book's structure is relatively complex, and divides into the following five sections: i) Zeus awakes on Mount Ida and arranges to reverse the situation (ll. 1-280); ii) the Achaeans are driven back to their defensive positions (ll. 281-366); iii) interludes involving Nestor and Patroclus (ll. 367-404); iv) the fighting at the ships (ll. 405-591); and v) Hector's breakthrough to the ships (ll. 592-746). The first of these five sections is especially significant because it includes within it Zeus' speech to Hera, in which the future outcome of the siege of Troy is revealed (see ll. 49-77). The last two of these sections are almost entirely taken up with details of fighting, and make good reading for Trojan enthusiasts, since it is in this book that the Trojans enjoy their greatest moments of success in the whole of the 'Iliad'. Sabidius has not made use of the ancient title of the Book, παλίωξις παρὰ τῶν νεῶν ("The Repulse from the Ships"), since this applies only to the situation at the beginning.

Ll. 1-33. Zeus' fury at the rout of the Trojans. 

But, when they (i.e. the Trojans), in their flight, had crossed the stakes and the trench, and many had been brought down at the hands of the Danaans, then, as they stayed by their chariots, they were brought to a halt, panic-stricken and pale with fear. And Zeus awoke on the peaks of (Mount) Ida, beside Hera of the golden throne, and he sprang up and stood (erect), and he saw the Trojans and the Achaeans, the former thrown into confusion, and the Argives behind (them) driving (them) on, and the lord Poseidon among them; and he saw Hector lying on the plain, and his comrades were sitting around (him), and he was gripped with painful breathing, dazed in mind, (and) vomiting blood, for it was not the feeblest of the Achaeans who had smitten him (i.e. he had in fact been smitten by Ajax the Greater.) Seeing him, the father of men and gods felt pity, and, frowning terribly, he said these words to Hera: "Now in very truth (it is) your artful trick (that) has taken Hector out of the battle and put his army to flight. I truly know not whether you are to be the first to reap the results of your grievous ill-contrivance, and I shall scourge you with stripes. Or do you not remember when you were hung up on high and I suspended two anvils from your feet and placed an unbreakable golden band around your wrists? And in the air and amid the clouds you did hang; and throughout high Olympus the gods were indignant, but they were not able to set you free. And whomever I caught I would seize and hurl from the threshold, so that they fell to earth with little strength (in them) (i.e. this seems to be referring to the fate of Hephaestus, punished by Zeus for trying to come to the aid of his mother); yet not even so would that ceaseless pain for godlike Heracles let go of my heart: you, together with the North Wind, prevailed on the blasts and sent him over the barren sea, and then, in your evil scheming, you carried him off to the well-inhabited (island of) Cos (i.e. an island off the south-west coast of Asia Minor). From there I rescued him and brought (him) back again to horse-rearing Argos (i.e. the Peloponnese), even though he had suffered many hardships. I will remind you of these (things) again, in order that you may desist from your deceitful ways, to the end that you may see whether love-making and the bed, where you lay (with me), were of any help to you, when you came from the gods and tricked me." 

Ll. 34-77. Zeus prophesies the course of the war. 

So he spoke, and the ox-eyed queenly Hera shuddered and, in speaking, she said these winged words to him: "May Earth now witness this, and broad Heaven above, and the downstreaming water of the Styx, which is the greatest and most dread (basis of) an oath for the blessed gods, and your own sacred head, and the marriage-bed belonging to the two of us, something on which I would never swear a false oath - (it is) not by my will that Poseidon, the earthshaker, is doing harm to the Trojans and Hector, and giving succour to the (others) (i.e. the Achaeans), but methinks it is his own heart that drives (him) on and prompts (him), and, when he saw the Achaeans in sore distress by their ships, he took pity on (them). But, let me tell you, I would exhort even him to walk in that way in which you, lord of the dark clouds, may lead (him)." 

So she spoke, and the father of gods and men smiled, and spoke these winged words to her in answer: "If you, (O) ox-eyed queenly Hera, are now thinking the same as me, as you sit among the immortals, in that case Poseidon, even if he wants (something) very different, would quickly alter the direction of his mind to follow your heart and mine. But, if you are speaking truly and honestly, go now among the tribes of the gods and summon Iris and Apollo, renowned for his bow, to come here, so that she may go amid the host of the bronze-clad Achaeans, and tell lord Poseidon to stop fighting and return to his own house, and let Phoebus Apollo spur Hector into battle, and breathe strength into (him) once more, and make him forget the pains which are now distressing (him) around the heart, and may he turn the Achaeans back again and push (them) into feeble flight, and, as they flee, they shall collapse into the well-benched ships of Peleus' son, Achilles; and he will send his comrade Patroclus into action; and glorious Hector will slay him with his spear in front of Ilium, after he has slain many other vigorous (men), and among them my son, godlike Sarpedon. And in his anger for his (friend), godlike Achilles will slay Hector. Then, from that time forth, let me tell you, I shall ensure a continuous return pursuit from the ships right up until the Achaeans shall take steep Ilium through the schemes of Athene. But before then, I shall not cease my rage, or allow any other of the immortals to bring help here to the Danaans, until the desire of Peleus' son has been fulfilled, just as I promised him in the first place, and gave the nod to with my head, on that day when the goddess Thetis clasped my knees, as she begged me to show honour to Achilles, sacker of cities." 

Ll. 78-112. Hera warns the gods to obey Zeus.  

So he spoke, and the white-armed goddess Hera did not disobey, and she went forth from the mountains of Ida to high Olympus. As when the mind of a man, who has travelled over many lands, shoots thoughts into his subtle imagination, and he calls many (things) to mind, (saying to himself) "Let me be here, or there," so did queenly Hera fly swiftly on her way in her eagerness; and she came to steep Olympus and found the immortal gods gathered together in the house of Zeus; and, when they saw (her), they all sprang up and welcomed her with cups (of drink). She let the others be, but took a cup from Themis with the fair cheeks; for she came running to meet (her) first, and, in addressing her she spoke these winged words: "Hera, why have you come? You look distraught; now in very truth, the son of Cronos, (he) who (is) your husband, must have alarmed you."   

Then, the white-armed goddess Hera answered her: "Do not ask me about this, goddess Themis; you know yourself how overbearing and harsh his nature (is). But do you now make preparations for a shared banquet for the gods in the palace; and you will hear, together with all the immortals, of those evil deeds which Zeus is proposing; nor do I think there will be any joy in the hearts of all alike, either mortals or gods, even if anyone is still now feasting happily." 

Having spoken thus, queenly Hera sat down, and throughout Zeus's house the gods are angered; and she laughed with her lips, but the forehead above her eye-brows was not relaxed; and in her annoyance she said to all (of them): "We who rage foolishly against Zeus are idiots; indeed, we still have it in mind to draw near (to him) to try to stop him, either by argument or by force; but he, sitting apart (from us), neither notices (us) nor cares about us; for he says that he is by far the best among the immortal gods, both in power and in strength. Therefore, you must endure whatever evil (thing) he may send to each of you. For now I believe that sorrow has already been inflicted upon Ares; for his son, to him the dearest of men, has perished in battle, Ascalaphus (i.e. co-commander of the Minyan contingent from Orchomenos), (that is), (he) whom mighty Ares declares to be his own."

Ll. 113-148.  Athene rebukes Ares. 

So she spoke, but Ares slapped his sturdy thighs with the flat of his hands, and, in his sorrow, spoke these words: "(O you) who have your dwellings on Olympus, do not blame me now for going to the ships of the Trojans to avenge my son, even if (it is) my fate to be struck by a thunderbolt of Zeus and to lie with the corpses amid blood and dust."

So he spoke and he bade Terror and Rout (i.e. the sons of Ares and Aphrodite) to harness his horses, while he himself put on his gleaming armour. Then, an even greater and more bitter rage and fury would have broken out between Zeus and the other immortals, if Athene, seized with great fear for all the gods, had not gone out through the doorway and left the chair where she was sitting, and taken the helmet from his (i.e. Ares') head and the shield from his shoulders, and, taking the bronze spear from his sturdy hand, she stood (it) up (against a wall); then, she rebuked the angry Ares with these words: "You deranged madman, you are out of your mind; in vain do you have ears to hear, and your understanding and sense of right are gone from you. Did you not hear what the white-armed goddess Hera said, she who has just now come from the side of Olympian Zeus? Do you yourself wish to endure many woes and to be forced to go back to Olympus despite your grief, and to sow the seeds of suffering for all the rest (of us)? For he will instantly leave the high-spirited Trojans and the Achaeans, and he will come back to Olympus to wreak havoc on us, and to deal with us one after the other, the guilty and the guiltless alike. Therefore, I bid you now to let go of your anger for your good son; for (many) a man, (who is) better in might and (strength of) hand than he, has either been struck down already or will be felled hereafter; and hard (it is) to protect all men's family and offspring."

So saying, she made the angry Ares sit down on his seat. Then, Hera called Apollo and Iris, the messenger of the gods, out of the hall, and she spoke to them, and addressed these winged words (to them): "Zeus bids you go to Ida as quickly as possible; and when you have come, and looked upon the face of Zeus, you are to do whatever he may urge and command."

Ll. 149-183. Iris carries Zeus' message to Poseidon. 

When she had spoken thus, queenly Hera came back and sat down on her chair, and the two of them darted off in flight. They came to Ida with its many fountains, the mother of wild beasts, and found the far-seeing son of Cronos seated on the top of Gargaron (i.e. the central peak of Mount Ida, and one of Zeus's favourite vantage points); and a fragrant cloud was wreathed around him. And the two came before Zeus the cloud-gatherer; and, when he saw them, he was not angered in his heart, as they had promptly obeyed his dear wife's instructions. And he spoke these winged words to Iris first: "Go away with you, swift Iris, bear all these (tidings) to lord Poseidon, and do not bring (him) a false message. Tell him to cease from war and battle, and go to join the tribes of gods or into the bright sea. And, if he will not obey my words, but pays no regard to (them), let him then consider in his mind and heart that, even though he is strong, he may not be able to withstand my attack, for I declare that I am much better than him in strength and that I was born before (him); yet in his heart he does not take heed of this, when he says that he is on equal terms with me, of whom even the other gods are in dread."    

So he spoke, and Iris, with her feet as swift as the wind, did not disobey, but she went down from the hills of Ida to sacred Ilium. And, as when snow or chilly hail flies from the clouds, (driven) by a blast of the air-born North Wind, even so did swift Iris fly, rushing eagerly, and she drew near to and addressed the renowned earthshaker: "I have come here, bringing a certain message for you, (O) dark-haired upholder of the earth, from aegis-bearing Zeus. He commands you to cease from war and battle, (and) to go to join the tribes of gods or into the bright sea. And if you will not comply with his words, but pay no regard (to them), then he threatens to come here himself to fight against (you); and (he warns) you to keep out of his hands, since he says that he is far better than you in strength and that he was born before (you); yet your heart does not take heed (of this), but you declare that you are equal with him, of whom even the other gods are in dread."

Ll. 184-219. Despite his anger, Poseidon is persuaded by Iris to comply with Zeus's instructions.   

Then, greatly disturbed, the renowned Earthshaker, spoke to her: "For shame, strong though he may be, he has spoke arrogantly if he seeks to restrain me by force against my will, when I am equal (to him) in honour. For we are three brothers, whom Rhea begot by Cronos, Zeus and I, and the third (is) Hades, lord of those who live beneath the earth. And everything has been divided into three parts, and each one (of us) has obtained his share of honour. When (we) shook the lots, it is indeed the case that I obtained possession of the grey sea as my eternal habitation, and Hades won the murky darkness, and Zeus won the broad heaven amid the air and the clouds; but the earth and lofty Olympus (were) yet common to (us) all. Therefore, I shall in no way live according to the will of Zeus, but however strong he is, let him abide quietly in his own third share. Let him try not to frighten me like (I was) some utter coward; for it would be better (for him) to threaten with his fearful words the daughters and sons, whom he himself begot, and they will be forced to listen to his goadings."

Then Iris, with her feet as swift as the wind, answered him: "(O) dark-haired upholder of the earth, is this then really the message, harsh and unyielding, that I am to bear to Zeus, or will you alter (it) in some way? For the hearts of the good (are) pliable. You know how the Furies always follow (the interests of) the elder-born." 

Then, the Earthshaker Poseidon addressed her again; "Goddess Iris, you have spoken these words very much in accordance with the truth; and a good thing it is, when a messenger thinks sensibly. But this dread distress comes over my heart and soul, when he is willing to abuse with angry words (someone) who has an equal share with him, and (who is) destined to have a common endowment. But now indeed I shall give way, despite my anger; but let me tell you something else, and I make this threat in my wrath; if, despite myself and Athene, driver of the spoil, (and) Hera, and Hermes, and lord Hephaestus, he shall spare lofty Ilium and shall be prepared not to utterly destroy (it), and not to give great might to the Argives, let him know this, that between us two there shall be an incurable anger."

So saying, the Earthshaker left the host of the Achaeans, and went to the sea and plunged (into it), and the Achaean warriors missed (him) sorely.    

Ll. 220-252. Apollo goes to revive Hector.  

And then cloud-gathering Zeus addressed Apollo: "Go now dear Phoebus to bronze-armoured Hector; for now indeed has the Upholder and Shaker of the Earth gone into the bright sea to avoid our utter wrath, for others too would have heard our great strife. That is the gods who are in the lower regions (of the earth) (i.e. the Titans), (gathered) as they are around Cronos. But it was much better both for me and for him that, before (that happened), he escaped my hands, despite his anger, since (the matter) could not have been resolved without sweat. But do you take in your hands the tasselled aegis, and shake it hard so as to strike fear into the Achaean warriors; and for yourself, far-shooter, let glorious Hector be your concern. for now you must arouse his great might, until the Achaeans come fleeing to their ships and the Hellespont. Then, I myself shall consider what is to be said and done, so that the Achaeans may once more get a respite from their toil." 

So he spoke, and Apollo did not fail to obey his father, but down he went from the hills of Ida like a swift dove-killing hawk, which is the swiftest of winged creatures. He found the son of thoughtful Priam, godlike Hector, sitting up, and no longer lying (on the ground), and he was just beginning to recover his consciousness and to recognise the friends around him, while his gasping and sweating ceased, as the will of aegis-bearing Zeus revived him. Then, Apollo, who works from afar, drew near and said to (him): "Hector, son of Priam, why are you sitting (here) powerlessly, apart from the others? Has some trouble perhaps come upon you?" 

Then, in his feeble state, Hector of the shining helmet said to him: "Which of the gods are you, most mighty one, who asks me this face to face? Do you not know that, as I was slaying his comrades by the sterns of the Achaeans' ships, Ajax, good at the war-cry (i.e. Ajax the Greater, or Ajax, son of Telamon), struck me on the chest with a large stone, and put a stop to my impetuous might? Then I thought that I should behold the dead and the house of Hades on that day, when I had breathed out my life."    

Ll. 253-280. Hector revives and leads the Trojans into battle once more. 

Then, lord Apollo, who works from afar, spoke to him again: "Be of good cheer now; (for) the son of Cronos has sent you such a helper from Ida, to stand by your side and assist (you), (namely) Phoebus Apollo of the golden sword, and I will keep you safe, as I did before, yourself and your lofty citadel alike. But come now, tell your host of charioteers to drive their swift horses to the hollow ships; and I will go ahead and smooth the whole way for the horses, and turn the Achaean warriors to flight."

So saying, he breathed great strength into the shepherd of the host. And, as when a stalled horse, fully fed with barley at the manger, breaks his halter and gallops over the plain, stamping (his feet), and, being wont to bathe in the waters of the fair-flowing river, he exults; and he holds his head on high and his mane streams around his shoulders; and, relying as he does on his splendour, his knees nimbly bear him to the haunts and pasture of the mares, so does Hector lightly ply his feet and knees, urging on his charioteers, since he has heard the voice of a god. But, as when dogs and men of the countryside pursue a horned stag or a wild goat, but a sheer rock-face or a shadowy thicket save him (from them), nor was it destined for them to catch (him), then, due to their clamour, a bearded lion appears in their path, and at once it turns them all away, despite their eagerness; so, for a time, the Danaans constantly followed them in droves, thrusting with their swords and their two-headed spears, but, when they saw Hector going up and down the ranks of his men, they were alarmed, and the spirits of (them) all sank down to their feet. 

Ll. 281-311. Thoas rallies the Achaeans. 

Then, Thoas, the son of Andraemon, addressed them, (he who was) by far the best of the Aetolians, skilled at throwing the javelin and in close fighting, and few of the Achaeans could surpass him in the place of assembly, when young men competed in debate; he addressed them in a well-meaning manner and spoke these words among (them): "Well this (is) certainly a great marvel that I behold with my eyes, how Hector has avoided the fates and is back on his feet once more; for sure, the heart of each one (of us) had really hoped that he had died beneath the hand of Ajax, son of Telamon. But one of the gods has again rescued and saved Hector, (he) who has loosened the knees of many Danaans, as I think will now happen again; for not without (the help of) Zeus the thunderer could he stand forth so eagerly as their foremost man. But come, even as I say, let us all obey. Let us order the bulk of our troops to go back to the ships; but we who declare ourselves to be the best (men) in the army, let us take our stand, (to see) if we can meet (him) first and hold (him) off with our outstretched spears; for I think that, despite his eagerness, he will fear in his heart to enter the throng of the Danaans."

So he spoke, and they readily listened to him and obeyed; those who were in the company of Ajax and lord Idomeneus (i.e. king of Crete), Teucer (i.e. half-brother of Telamonian Ajax and the best archer in the Achaean army) and Meriones (i.e. second-in-command of the Cretan contingent) and Meges (i.e. leader of the men from Dulichium and the Echinades), peer of Ares, summoned their best (men) and formed a battle-line to face Hector and the Trojans; but behind (them) the bulk of the troops made their way back to the ships of the Achaeans. 

The Trojans charged forward in a mass, and Hector was at their head, taking long strides; and before him went Phoebus Apollo, wrapping a cloud around his shoulders, and he bore the impetuous aegis, a fearful (thing) distinguished by its shaggy tassels, which the coppersmith Hephaestus gave to Zeus to put men to flight; bearing this in his hands, he (i.e. Apollo) led on the host. 

Ll. 312-342. Apollo and Hector inflict serious losses on the Achaeans.

But the Argives, packed together, held their ground, and a shrill war-cry arose from both sides, and arrows leapt from the bow-string; many spears (were propelled) by bold hands, and some lodged in the flesh of vigorous (young men), swift in battle, but many, (though) longing to taste flesh, stuck in the earth between (them), before they could reach white skin. Now, as long as Phoebus Apollo held the aegis motionless in his hands, so missiles from both sides readily reached their target and men continued to fall. But, when he looked straight into the faces of the Danaans with their swift horses and shook the aegis, and he himself shouted very loudly at (them), then he bewitched the hearts within their breasts, and they forsook their fighting spirit. As when two wild beasts drive a herd of cattle or a great flock of sheep in confusion, coming upon them suddenly in the dead of a black night when their herdsman was not present, so in their enfeebled state were the Achaeans put to flight; for Apollo had put fear into (them), and granted glory to the Trojans and to Hector.      

Then man slew man as the battle-line broke in pieces. Hector struck down Stichius and Arcesilaus, the latter a leader of the bronze-coated Boeotians, and the former a trusty comrade of great-hearted Menestheus (i.e. the commander of the Athenians); and Aeneas (i.e. son of Anchises and the leader of the Dardanians) slew Medon and Iasus. Now Medon was a bastard son of godlike Oïleus (i.e. king of the Locrians) and a half-brother of Ajax (i.e. Ajax the Lesser); but he dwelt in Phylace (i.e. a town in Thessaly), away from his native-land, for he had slain a man (who was) a kinsman of his step-mother Eriopis; and Iasus had been made a leader of the Athenians, and he was called the son of Sphelus, son of Boucolus. And Polydamas slew Mecisteus, and Polites (i.e. son of Priam) (slew) Echius in the forefront of the battle, and godlike Agenor (i.e. son of Antenor, the renowned  Trojan elder) slew Clonius. And Paris (i.e. son of Priam and husband of Helen) struck Deïochus from behind on the base of his shoulder, as he fled among the front-fighters, and he drove the bronze (point) right through. 

Ll. 343-378. Apollo and Hector drive the Achaeans back to their ships. 

While they were stripping the (bodies) of their armour, so the Achaeans were falling into the trench they had dug and on to its stakes, and they were fleeing in all directions and were forced to dive down behind their wall. Then, Hector called out to the Trojans, shouting loudly, "Fall upon their ships and leave the blood-stained spoils alone. Whomever I shall espy on the other side, far away from their ships, there I shall contrive his death, nor then will his kinsmen and kinswomen win the rite of burning his body, (when he is) dead, but dogs will tear (it) apart in front of our city."

So saying, he drove on his horses from his shoulder with a whip, calling on the Trojans along the ranks; and they all called out together with him and guided their chariot-drawing horses with wondrous sounds; and before (them) Phoebus Apollo easily dashed down the banks of the deep ditch with his feet and cast (their pieces) into the space between, and he piled up a causeway long and broad, with (a width) as great as is the flight of a spear (i.e. ten to  twenty paces), whenever a man should make a trial of his strength. So they poured across this in their massed ranks, and before (them went) Apollo, bearing the precious aegis; and very easily did he cast down the wall of the Achaeans, as when a boy (knocks down) a sandcastle near the sea, and so, when he makes a plaything in his childishness, then again he flattens (it) with his hands and feet as he plays. So did you, lord Phoebus, disturb the great toil and hardship of the Argives and send (them) into flight. 

And so they halted and stood by the side of their ships, and they called out to one another, and, raising their hands to all of the gods, they prayed aloud, each one (of them); and Nestor, the Gerenian, warden of the Achaeans, prayed most of all, stretching out his hands to the starry sky: "(O) father Zeus, if ever anyone of us in Argos, very rich in corn, burned the fat thigh-bones of an ox or a ram, and prayed that he might return, and you nodded in assent and promised (it), be you mindful of these (things) and ward off, (O) Olympian, the pitiless day (of doom); and do not allow the Achaeans to be vanquished by the Trojans."

So he spoke in prayer, and Zeus the counsellor thundered loudly, as he heard the prayers of the aged son of Neleus.  

Ll. 379-404. The fighting at the ships.

But, when the Trojans heard the thunder of Zeus, who bears the aegis, they leapt all the more on the Argives, and filled their minds with the joy of battle. As a huge wave of the broad-pathed sea sweeps down over the sides of a ship, when the force of the wind drives it on - for it swells the waves especially; so did the Trojans sweep over the wall with a great cry, and, driving their horses, they (fought) at close quarters from their chariots by the sterns (of the ships) with their double-pointed spears, while the (Achaeans) climbed up high (and fought) from their black ships with their long javelins which lay on board the ships, jointed (i.e. held together by metal clasps) and shod in bronze at their tips. 

And Patroclus, as long as the Achaeans and the Trojans were fighting around the the wall outside the swift ships, then he sat in the hut of the manly Eurypylus and gladdened him with talk, as he was applying medicines on his grievous wound as a remedy for his dark pains. But now, when he saw the Trojans charging at the wall, and there was a cry of panic from the Danaans, then he let out a groan and slapped his two thighs with the flat of his hands, and, in his sorrow spoke these words: "Eurypylus, I cannot stay beside you here any longer, however much you may need (it); for now a mighty struggle has arisen. But may your squire bring you comfort, while I shall hasten to Achilles to urge (him) to go into battle. But who knows, perhaps with a god's (help) I may stir his spirit and win (him) over? For the encouragement of a comrade is a good (thing)."   

Ll. 405-441. Men on both sides continue to die by the ships. 

As he (i.e. Patroclus) spoke, his feet carried him away; now the Achaeans firmly withstood the Trojans (who were) attacking (them), but they could not push (them) back from their ships, even though they were lesser (in number); nor could the Trojans ever break up the ranks of the Danaans and get among their huts and their ships. But, as the carpenter's line keeps straight the (cutting of) a ship's timber in the hands of an experienced workman, who is well-skilled in all (aspects of) his craft through the inspiration of Athene, so was their war and battle stretched tightly on level (terms); and one side fought a battle around the other (men's) ships, but Hector went straight for glorious Ajax. Then, the two of them struggled around a single ship, nor could the one (i.e. Hector) drive back the other (i.e. Ajax) and set the ship on fire, nor could the other push him back, since a god (i.e. Apollo) had brought (him) there. Then did glorious Ajax strike Caletor, son of Clytius (i.e. the brother of Priam), on the breast as he was bringing fire to the ship. And he fell with a crash and the firebrand dropped from his hand. But, when Hector beheld with his eyes that his cousin had fallen in the dust in front of the black ship, he called to the Trojans and Lycians, shouting loudly: "(You) Trojans and Lycians, and (you) Dardanians that fight in close combat, do not give any ground in this phase of the battle, but you must rescue the son of Clytius, so that the Achaeans do not strip him of his armour, now that he has fallen among the assembly of the ships." 

So saying, he took aim at Ajax with his bright spear. Him he missed, but then (he did hit) Lycophron, son of Mastor, a squire of Ajax from Cythera, who lived with him, as he had slain a man in sacred Cythera, and he smote him on the head above the ear with his sharp bronze, as he stood near Ajax; and he fell to the ground on his back in the dust from the stern of the ship, and his knees were loosed. Then, Ajax shuddered and said to his brother: "Dear Teucer, our faithful comrade has now been slain, (namely) the son of Mastor, whom, when he came to our household from Cythera, we honoured in our halls, (as did) our parents equally; him has great-hearted Hector slain. Where now (are those) quick-killing arrows of yours, and that bow that Phoebus Apollo gave you?" 

Ll. 442-477. Hector receives divine protection from Teucer's arrows.

So he (i.e. Ajax) spoke, and the other one (i.e. Teucer) heard him and ran and stood near to him, holding in his hand his bent-back bow and his quiver full of arrows; and very quickly did he begin to fire his darts at the Trojans. And he hit Cleitus, the glorious son of Peisenor, the comrade (i.e. he was also his charioteer) of Polydamas, the noble son of Panthoüs, as he was holding the reins in his hands; and he was busy with the horses, for he was guiding (them) to the place where by far the most of the battalions were fleeing in confusion, so as to please Hector and the Trojans; but evil swiftly came upon him, and not one (of them) could ward it off, eager though they were (to do so). For the fatal arrow landed on the back of his neck; and he fell from the chariot, and the horses swerved aside, rattling the empty carriage. And lord Polydamas saw (this), and (was) the first to go over to the horses. These he gave to Astynoüs, the son of Protiaön, and he told (him) to keep an eye on the horses and to hold (them) closely; and he himself went back and mingled with the foremost fighters.  

Then, Teucer drew another arrow for bronze-armoured Hector, and would have made (him) cease from battle by the ships of the Achaeans, if he had hit him in all his glory and taken away his life. But this had not escaped the notice of the cautious mind of Zeus, who was keeping watch on Hector, and he deprived Telamonian Teucer of his triumph, and broke the well-twisted string in his excellent bow; and his arrow loaded with bronze went off course in another direction, and the bow fell from his hand. Then, Teucer shuddered and said to his brother: "For shame, in truth a god is utterly destroying out battle plans, and he has cast the bow from my hands and he has broken the newly-twisted string that I bound on (it) this morning, so that it would withstand the arrows that would frequently spring from (it)." 

Then, great Telamonian Ajax answered him (thus): "Very well, my friend, but let your bow and your cluster of arrows lie (where they are), since some god, out of antipathy to the Danaans, has rendered (them) useless; but take a long spear in your hands and a shield upon your shoulder and do battle with the Trojans, and urge on the rest of your host. Even though they may be victorious over (us), they shall not take our well-benched ships without a real struggle, so now let us turn our minds to battle."

Ll. 478-513. Hector and Ajax rally their men. 

So he spoke, and he (i.e. Teucer) laid down the bow within the hut, and then he slung a four-layered shield around his shoulders, and upon his stout head he placed a well-wrought helmet with a plume of horse-hair, and its crest nodded fearfully from its top; then, he grasped a mighty spear, sharply tipped with bronze, and went his way, and he ran most quickly to stand at the side of Ajax. 

And, when Hector saw that Teucer's shafts were blighted, he called out to the Trojans and Lycians with a loud shout: "(You) Trojans, and Lycians, and Dardanians who fight in close combat, be you men, my friends, and remember your fighting spirit amid the hollow ships; for with my own eyes I have beheld how Zeus has blighted the shafts of their leading warrior. The strength that comes from Zeus is easily recognised by men, both (those) to whom he has granted the glory of victory, and (those) whom he belittles and is unwilling to protect, as he is now belittling the strength of the Argives and is helping us. But do you fight at the ships in throngs; and whichever one of you, having been hit (with an arrow) or stabbed (by a sword), shall incur death and fate, let him die; but his wife (is) safe and his children after (him), and his house and his plot of land (are) unimpaired, if the Achaeans shall be gone with their ships to their native-land."

So speaking, he (i.e. Hector) stirred the strength and spirit of each one (of them). And again Ajax, on the other side, called out to his comrades: "Shame on you, Argives; (for) now (it is) certain that we either perish, or we save ourselves and beat back disaster from our ships. Or do you have any reason to think that, if Hector of the shining helmet takes our ships, anyone of us will will come back on foot to his native-land? For sure, he is not ordering (them) to come to a dance, but to fight. And for us there is not any counsel or plan (that is) better than this, that we intertwine our hands and our might (with theirs) in hand-to-hand (battle). (It is) better to die or to live once and for all, than to be drained of our strength like this for so long in this grim conflict beside our ships by men (who are) weaker (than us)." 

Ll. 514-558. The Achaeans and the Trojans fight in close combat. 

So saying, he aroused the strength and the courage of each (man). Then, Hector slew Schedius, son of Perimedes, a leader of the Phocians, and Ajax slew Laodamas, a captain of the foot-soldiers, (and) the glorious son of Antenor; then, Polydamas slew Otus of Cyllene (i.e. a town in Elis), comrade of Phyleus' son (i.e. Meges), (and) the leader of the great-hearted Epeians. And, seeing (this), Meges sprang at him; but Polydamas ducked down underneath (him); and so he missed him; for Apollo would not suffer the son of Panthoüs to be vanquished amid the foremost fighters; but he did strike Croesmus in the middle of his chest with his spear. And he fell with a crash; and (his adversary) began to strip the armour from his shoulders. Meanwhile, Dolops, the son of Lampus (i.e. a brother of King Priam), well-skilled with his spear, leapt upon him, (he) whom Lampus, the son of Laomedon, had fathered (as) his bravest son, well-known for his fighting spirit, and he then rushed near to the son of Phyleus and struck the middle of his shield with his spear; but the thick corselet which he wore, with its front and back plates joined together, protected him; Phyleus had once brought this out of Ephyre from the river of Selleëis (i.e. in Elis). For his guest-friend Euphetes, lord of men (i.e. a king of Ephyre), had given (it) to him to wear in battle (as) a defence against his adversaries; now it also warded off destruction from the body of his son. Then, Meges stabbed with his sharp-pointed spear at the top of the crest of his bronze helmet thick with horse-hair, and he sheared off a tuft of horse-hair from it; and, bright with its freshly (dyed) purple, all (of it) fell to the ground in the dust. Now, while he (i.e. Meges) stayed and fought with him, and still hoped for victory, Menelaus, meanwhile, came to him (as) a helper, and he stood on one side with his spear unnoticed, and smote him (i.e. Dolon) on the shoulder from behind; and the point of the spear sped through his chest, pressing eagerly forwards; and he sank (to the ground) head-foremost. Then the two of them (i.e. Menelaus and Meges) went to strip the bronze armour from his shoulders; Then, Hector called out especially to all of his kinsmen, and in the first place he reproached Hicetaon's son, the sturdy Melanippus. Now, at one time, he had tended his cattle with their shambling gait in Percote (i.e. a town in Asia Minor to the north-east of Troy), while their enemies were (still) far away; but, when the balanced ships of the Danaans arrived, he went back to Ilium and acquired a distinguished position among the Trojans, and he lived beside Priam, who honoured him equally with his children; now, Hector reproached him, and addressed these words to him and called him by name: "Are we really going to be so slack, Melanippus? Does your heart feel no shame that your first cousin has been slain? Do you not see how they are busying themselves around Dolops' armour? But (come), follow (me); for it is no longer possible (for us) to do battle with the Argives from afar, (but we must fight,) until we either slay (them), or they take steep Ilium entirely and her citizens are slaughtered."     

Ll. 559-591. The death of Melanippus.

Thus speaking, he led the way, and the godlike man (i.e. Melanippus) followed after (him); and great Telamonian Ajax urged on the Argives, (saying): "Be men, my friends, and put pride in your hearts, and have respect for one another throughout this mighty conflict: of the men who take pride in themselves, more are saved than are slain. And of those who flee, there comes neither glory nor any courage." So he spoke, and even they themselves were eager to ward off (the foe), and they took his words to heart, and they fenced in the ships with a wall of bronze (i.e. their shields); and Zeus stirred up the Trojans against (them). Then, Menelaus, good at the war-cry, exhorted Antilochus (i.e. the son of Nestor): "No one else among the Achaeans (is) younger than you (are), Antilochus, nor swifter of foot, nor as valiant in battle as you; if only you would leap out and strike down one of the Trojan men."  

So saying, he darted away again, but (his words) encouraged him (i.e. Antilochus); and he sprang forward from among the foremost fighters, and, looking sharply around him, he flung his shining spear; and the Trojans shrank back from the man as he threw (it); nor did he cast his missile in vain, but he smote Hicetaon's son, the high-spirited Melanippus, on the breast beside the nipple, as he was coming into battle. And he fell with a crash, and darkness covered his eyes. Then, Antilochus sprang upon (him) like a hound that pounces on a smitten fawn, whom a hunter happened to hit with his shot as he sprung from his lair, and he loosened his limbs; so did Antilochus, staunch in battle, spring at you, Melanippus, in order to strip off your armour; but he did not escape the notice of godlike Hector, who came running through the battle to meet him. And Antilochus, swift warrior though he was, did not stand his ground, but he fled like a wild beast that has done (something) bad; for instance it has killed a hound or a herdsman beside his cattle, and it flees just before a throng of men can be gathered together; so fled the son of Nestor, and the Trojans and Hector let flow their grievous missiles with a wondrous noise; but, when he reached the body of his comrades, he turned around and stood fast.   

Ll. 592-652. Hector reaches the ships.

But the Trojans rushed at the ships like flesh-eating lions, and they were fulfilling the behests of Zeus, who constantly aroused great might in them, but he bewitched the hearts of the Argives and took away their glory, while he urged on the (others). For his heart wished to give glory to Hector, son of Priam, so that he might cast untiring supernatural fire upon the beaked ships and wholly bring about the unjust prayer of Thetis; for Zeus the counsellor was waiting to behold with his eyes the blaze of a burning ship. For, from that (time), he was destined to institute a return pursuit of the Trojans from the ships, and to grant glory to the Danaans. With these (things) in his mind, he was spurring on Hector, son of Priam, against the hollow ships, though he himself was very eager too. He was raging, like when Ares  brandishes his spear, or when deadly fire rages in the mountains in the thickets of a deep forest; and there was foam around his mouth, and his two eyes shone out beneath his grim bushy brows, and Hector's helmet shook terribly around his temples as he fought; for his ally Zeus was himself in the sky, and he was also giving him honour, as he was alone among a multitude of warriors. For he was going to be short-lived; for Pallas Athene was already advancing the day of his doom beneath the might of the son of Peleus. And now he was wishing to break the ranks of men, putting (them) to the test, wherever he could see the greatest throng and the best armour; but even so he could not break (them) despite all his eagerness; for they stood firm fixed like a tower, as a huge steep rock is near to the grey sea, that firmly meets the swift tracks of the shrill winds, and the swelling waves that break foaming against it; so the Danaans firmly stood their ground against the Trojans, and were not put to flight. But he, gleaming with fire (i.e. a reference to Hector's shining bronze armour), leapt into the throng, and falls upon (them), as when, beneath the clouds, a fierce-rushing wave, swollen by the winds, falls upon a swift ship; and she is all hidden by the foam, and the dreadful blast of the wind roars in the sail, and the sailors tremble in their hearts with fear; for they narrowly escape from death; so were the hearts of the Achaeans torn asunder within their breasts. But he (i.e. Hector) (fell on them) like a baneful lion coming across cattle that are grazing in large numbers in the pastures of a great marsh-meadow, and among them (is) a herdsman, who does not yet clearly know (how) to fight with a wild beast about the slaying of a cow with crumpled horns; for he (i.e. the herdsman) always walks together with the foremost or the hindmost (of the cattle), but it darts upon, and devours, a cow among those in the centre, and then they all shrink back in terror. So were all the Achaeans then put to flight in a wondrous manner by Hector and father Zeus, but he (i.e. Hector) slew one man only, (namely) Periphates of Mycenae, the dear son of Copreus, (the man) who had been accustomed to go (as) a messenger from king Eurystheus to the mighty Heracles. From him, a much worse father, was born a son much better in all sorts of fine qualities, both (speed) of foot and fighting, and mentally he was among the foremost of the Myceneans; (he it was) who now then granted the higher glory (i.e. the glory of victory) to Hector. For, as he turned back (in flight), he tripped on the rim of the shield which reached down to his feet, which he himself bore (as) a defence against spears; stumbling upon it, he fell on his back, and his helmet clashed fearfully round about his temples as he fell. And Hector quickly noticed (this), and ran and stood close beside him, and stuck his spear in his breast and slew him near to his comrades; and they could not prevent (this), despite their grief for their comrade; for they themselves were absolutely terrified of godlike Hector.   

Ll. 653-695. Nestor exhorts the Achaeans to be courageous, and Ajax stands firm. 

Now they (i.e. the Achaeans) came into the spaces between the ships, but the outer (line) of ships, the ones which had been hauled up first (on to the shore), outflanked (them); but (still) they (i.e. the Trojans) came on. And the Argives were compelled to pull back from the outermost ships, but remained there in a crowd beside their huts, and not scattered throughout the camp; for shame and fear held (them) back; for they called out continuously to one another. And Gerenian Nestor, the warden of the Achaeans, appealed (to them) most of all, beseeching each man (as follows) in the name of his parents: "Be men, my friends, and put regard for other men in your hearts, and, besides, let each one (of you) be mindful of your children and your wives, and of your property and your parents, both (the man) whose (parents) are (still) living and (he) whose (parents) are dead. For the sake of those that are not here (with us), I beseech you to stand firm, and not to turn around in flight."

So he spoke, and he roused the strength and courage of each (man). For Athene dispersed the wondrous cloud of mist from their eyes; and bright light came to them from both sides, both from the direction of the ships and of the equally-balanced fighting. And they perceived Hector, good at the war-cry, and his comrades, both (those) who stood in the background and were not fighting, and (those) who were fighting the battle beside the swift ships. 

Now, it was not at all gratifying to the soul of great-hearted Ajax to stand (in the place) where the rest of the sons of the Achaeans stood aloof; but he kept traversing the decks of the ships (i.e. these were raised half-decks at the prows and the sterns of the ships) with long strides, and he wielded a great sea-fighting pike in his hands, fitted with clamps, (and) twenty-two cubits (i.e. twelve feet) in length. And, as (happens) in the case of a man well-skilled in riding horses, when he has hitched together four horses (chosen) from many, he drives (them) from the plain and presses on towards a great city along a highway; many (people), both men and women, marvel at him; and he, with steady poise and sure feet, continually springs from one (horse) to another in turn, while on they go. So did Ajax keep going backwards and forwards over many of the decks of the swift ships with huge strides, and his voice went up to the sky, and, shouting fearfully on a constant basis, he ordered the Danaans to defend their ships and huts. Nor did Hector remain among the crowded throng of the heavily-armoured Trojans; but, as a tawny eagle swoops down upon a flock of winged birds that are feeding beside a river, (whether they are) wild geese, cranes or long-necked swans, so Hector pushed straight towards a dark-prowed ship, dashing (himself) against (it); and Zeus pushed him on from behind with his most mighty hand, and urged on the host together with him.   

Ll. 696-746. The bitter fighting continues by the ships. 

Then again, keen fighting took place beside the ships; you would have thought (they were) fresh and unwearied to meet one another in warfare, so eagerly did they fight. And such were their thoughts as on they fought: in truth, the Achaeans did not think they could escape from disaster, but expected to die, and, in the case of the Trojans, the heart in the breast of each (man) hoped to set the ships on fire and slay the Achaean warriors. These were their thoughts as they opposed one another; but Hector took hold of the stern of a sea-going ship, a fine (vessel) swift on the water, that had brought Protesilaus (i.e. the first of the Achaeans to land from his ship on Trojan soil, but he was slain as soon as he did so) to Troy, but did not take him back again to his native-land. Now, around his ship the Achaeans and the Trojans were slaying one another in close combat; nor could they keep their distance from one another any longer amid the flights of arrows and darts, but they fought standing close to one another in oneness of heart (i.e. with a single purpose) with sharp hatchets and battle-axes, and long swords and double-headed spears. And many fine black-bound hilted swords fell to the ground, some from their hands, others from the shoulders of men as they fought; and the earth ran black with blood. But Hector, when he had taken hold of (the ship) by the stern, would not let go (of it), (but,) gripping the curved poop-end with his hands, he called out to the Trojans (as follows): "Bring fire and at the same time raise the war-cry all together yourselves; now has Zeus granted us a day worthy of (i.e. in compensation for) all (our former toils), - to take the ships that came here against the will of the gods and brought us many woes, through the cowardice of the elders, who stopped me, when I myself wished to fight by the sterns of the ships and held back the army; but if Zeus, who sees from afar, was then dulling our wits, now he is urging (us) on and giving (us) orders."  

So he spoke and then they leapt on the Argives all the more. But Ajax was no longer standing his ground; for he was beset with darts; but, thinking he would be killed, he gave ground a little on to the seven-foot thwart (i.e. this is probably a bench in the middle and the widest part of the ship) and left the poop-deck of the well-balanced ship (i.e. it had oars on both sides). There he stood on watch and constantly repelled from the ships whichever one of the Trojans sought to bring untiring fire; and all the time he called out to the Danaans with terrible cries: "My dear Danaan heroes, squires of Ares, be men, my friends, and be mindful of  your fighting spirit. Or do you think there are men behind (us, who will be) our helpers, or that there is some better wall that could save men from disaster? There is no nearby city fitted with battlements, in which we may defend ourselves with (a mass of) people who might turn the tide of battle. But (that is not to be), seeing that we are set here on the plain of the thickly-armoured Trojans with our backs to the sea, far from our native-land; so, our deliverance (lies) in (the strength of) our hands, not slackness in battle." 

He finished speaking, and lashed out furiously with his sharp spear. And whichever one of the Trojans would come up to the hollow ships with blazing fire in accordance with Hector's commands, Ajax would wait for (him) and stab him with his long pike, and twelve men did he (so) wound at close quarters in front of the ships.

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XV: THE RETURN OF THE PRINCE

HOMER: "ODYSSEY": BOOK XV: THE RETURN OF THE PRINCE.

Introduction: 

Book XV takes us back to the middle of Book IV and the visit of Telemachus to Menelaus and Helen at Sparta. Here the goddess Athena tells Telemachus that he must return to Ithaca, and advises him how to avoid the suitors' ambush. He is sent off with plenty of gifts and kind words from both Menelaus and his wife, and after he has experienced a favourable omen. He returns to Pylos together with his friend Peisistratus and there he rejoins his ship. Just before leaving, he is approached by a fugitive prophet, named Theoclymenus, who begs him to to take him aboard, which he agrees to do, and they then set off. Meanwhile, the scene reverts to Ithaca. Odysseus, in the guise of a beggar, offers to leave Eumaeus' hut, but is persuaded to remain there. When he asks about Eumaeus' parents, he is entertained by a long account of his personal background and how he came to be a slave of Laertes on Ithaca. Towards the of the Book, Telemachus arrives safely back at Ithaca, disbands his crew, and arranges for his friend Peiraeus to accommodate Theoclymenus. 

Book XV is remarkable for two long excursuses: the very detailed account of Theoclymenus' lineage, set out in ll. 222-264, and Eumaeus' life-story, delineated in ll. 380-484. 

Ll. 1-47. Athene visits Telemachus. 

Now, Pallas Athene went to spacious Lacedaemon to remind the brilliant son of great-hearted Odysseus of (the need to) return home, and to encourage his departure. She found Telemachus and the noble son of Nestor (i.e. Peisistratus) lying in the vestibule of glorious Menelaus. Now, Nestor's son  (was) overcome by soft sleep; but sweet sleep did not take hold of Telemachus, but anxious thoughts in his mind about his father kept (him) awake throughout the divine night.

And bright-eyed Athene stood near (him) and said: "Telemachus, (it is) no longer good (for you) to be wandering far from your home, and leaving behind your possessions and men of such arrogance in your house; take care lest they divide up and devour all your possessions, and you shall have gone on a fruitless journey. But urge Menelaus, good at the war-cry, to send you on your way with all speed, so that you may find your noble mother still in your house. For her father (i.e. Icarius) and her brothers are already pressing (her) to marry Eurymachus; for he surpasses all the suitors in his gifts and has greatly increased the bride-price. Now (be careful) lest she bears away some possession from your house against your will. For you know what sort of spirit (there is) in a woman's breast; she is keen to enrich the house of the man who weds (her), but she no longer remembers or asks about her previous children and the dead husband she (once) loved. But do you go yourself and entrust each of (your possessions) to whichever one of your maidservants seems to you to be the best, until the gods have granted you a worthy bride. And something else I shall tell you, and do you keep it in your mind. The suitors' ringleaders are purposefully lying in wait (for you) in the strait between Ithaca and rugged Same (i.e. today's Cephallenia). (They are) intent on murdering (you) before you reach your native-land. But I do not think this (will happen); before that, earth will cover some of the suitors who are consuming your livelihood. But do keep your well-built ship far from the islands, and sail by night as well as (by day); one of the immortals who both guards and protects you will send you a breeze from behind. But, when you have come to the first headland of Ithaca, send your ship and all your comrades to the city, but go yourself first of all to the swineherd (i.e. Eumaeus) who (is) the guardian of your swine, and is equally well-disposed towards you. Sleep there for the night, but send him into the city to tell the news to wise Penelope, that you are safe and sound, and are back from Pylos."    

So saying, she departed to high Olympus, but he (i.e. Telemachus) woke the son of Nestor out of his sweet sleep, stirring (him) with the heel of his foot, and he spoke these words to him: "Wake up, Peisistratus, son of Nestor, (and) bring up the whole-hoofed horses (and) yoke (them) beneath the chariot, so that we may go on our way."

Ll. 48-91. Menelaus offers gifts to Telemachus.   

Then, Peisistratus, the son of Nestor, said to him in turn in reply: "Telemachus, it is in no way possible for us, despite our eagerness for the journey, to drive through the darkness of the night; and soon it will be dawn. But wait until the warrior son of Atreus, the famous spearman Menelaus, has brought his gifts and put (them) in our carriage, and sends us on our way with gentle words of encouragement. For a guest remembers such a man all his days, the hospitable host, who has shown (him) kindness. 

So he spoke, and at once came golden-throned Dawn. Then, Menelaus, good at the war-cry, came near to them, having risen from his bed beside Helen of the lovely tresses. And so, when the hero Telemachus, the dear son of Odysseus saw him, he hastily drew his shining tunic over his body and flung a great cloak over his sturdy shoulders and went outside, and the dear son of godlike Odysseus, came up (to Menelaus) and addressed (him, saying): "Menelaus, son of Atreus, fostered by Zeus, leader of hosts, please now send me away to my dear native-land; for my heart is now wishing to return home." 

Then, Menelaus, good at the war-cry, replied to him:" Telemachus, I shall certainly not hold you here for a long time, when you are keen to return home; I disapprove of any host who either regards (his guests) with too much affection, or who treats (them) with too much indifference; (it is) better that everything (should be) in a state of balance. It is equally wrong, let me tell you, to send on his way a guest who does not wish to go, and to detain (one), who is eager (to do so). One should be kind to a guest who is present, but let him go when he wants to.   

"But stay until I bring (you) gifts and put (them) in your carriage, and you have beheld (them) with your own eyes, and I have bid the women to make a meal in my house from the abundant stores that are within. (It is) both an honour and a glory, as well as an advantage, (for a traveller) to dine before he goes forth over the wide and boundless earth. And, if you would like to tour all through Hellas (i.e. northern Greece) and mid-Argos (i.e. southern Greece and the Peloponnese), then I, myself, will follow you, and I will harness your horses and lead you to the cities of men. Nor will anyone send us away as we are, but they will give (us) one thing at least to take (with us), either some fine bronze tripod or cauldron, or a pair of mules or a golden cup."    

Then, wise Telemachus said to him again in reply: "Menelaus, son of Atreus, fostered by Zeus, leader of hosts, now I do want to return to our (house); for, when I left, I did not leave behind (me anyone) to watch over my property; in looking for my godlike father, I do not want to die myself, nor that some valuable heirloom should go missing from my house."   

Ll. 92-129. Gifts from Menelaus and Helen.

Now, when Menelaus, good at the war-cry, heard this, the he at once told his wife and her maidservants to prepare a meal in the hall from the plentiful (supplies) that were within (his palace). Then, Eteoneus, son of Boethus, came near (to him), having (just) risen from his bed, since he lived not far from him; Menelaus, good at the war-cry, told him to light the fire and roast some meat, and he heard and did not disobey. He, himself, went down to his fragrant storeroom, not alone, for with him went Helen and Megapenthes. But, when they came (to the place) where he stored his treasures, the the son of Atreus took a two-handled goblet and told his son Megapenthes to carry a silver mixing-bowl. And Helen stood beside the chests where were her richly embroidered robes, which she herself had wrought. One of these Helen, the most divine of women, lifted out and took away, (the one) that was the fairest in its embroideries and the amplest, and it shone like a star; and it was lying beneath (all) the rest. Then, they went their way forth through the house, until thy came to Telemachus; then auburn-haired Menelaus said to him: "Telemachus, may loud-thundering Zeus, the husband of Hera, indeed bring about your homecoming, even as you desire (it) in your heart. And of the gifts that lie (as) treasures in my house, I will give (you the one) which is the fairest and the most valuable. I will give you a well-wrought mixing-bowl; and it is all (made) of silver, and the rims on (it) are gilded with gold, and it is the work of Hephaestus (i.e. the God of Craftsmanship); and the warrior Phaedimus, king of the Sidonians, gave it (to me), when his house sheltered me when I went there; and now I wish to give it to you."    

So saying, the warrior son of Atreus placed the two-handled goblet in his hand, and the sturdy Megapenthes the shining  silver mixing-bowl and set (it) before him; and Helen of the lovely cheeks stood by with the robe in her hands, and addressed these words to him by name: "I too give you this gift, dear child, a keepsake (made) by Helen's (own) hands, for your bride to wear on the day of your longed-for wedding; and until then let it lie in  your hall beside your dear mother. Now you may return, rejoicing with me, to your well-built house and your native-land." 

Ll. 130-178. Telemachus and Peisistratus leave Sparta.

So saying, she placed (it) in his hands, and he took (it) gladly. And the warrior Peisistratus took the (gifts) and put (them) in the luggage-rack, and gazed at (them) all, (marvelling) in his heart; now, the auburn-haired Menelaus led them to the house. Then, the two of them sat down on chairs and seats. And a handmaid brought water for their hands in a fine golden jug, and she poured (it) over a silver basin, so they could rinse their hands; then, she set down a polished table before (them). And the revered housewife brought some bread and set (it) down beside (them). And she set down many pieces of food, giving freely of her stores; and beside (her) the son of Boethus (i.e. Eteoneus) carved pieces of meat and served (them). And the son of glorious Menelaus (i.e. Megapenthes) poured out the wine. And they put out their hands to the good food lying ready before (them).  

But, when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, then Telemachus and the noble son of Nestor yoked the horses and mounted their inlaid chariot, and drove out of the gateway and the resounding portico. And the son of Atreus, auburn-haired Menelaus, went after them, bearing in his right hand some honey-sweet wine in a golden cup, so that they might make a drink-offering as they left. And he stood before the horses, and with a gesture of his hand, he addressed (them as follows): "Farewell, (O) young men, and give my greetings to Nestor, shepherd of the host; for, in truth, he was kind (to me) like a father, while we, the sons of the Achaeans, were fighting in (the land of) Troy."

Then again, wise Telemachus addressed him in reply: "(O) favourite of Zeus, when we arrive, we will certainly tell (him) all the (things) that you say; for if, when I return to Ithaca, I were to find Odysseus in our house, I should tell (him) that I come, having met with all that kindness at your (hands), and, furthermore, I will be bringing many valuable treasures." 

Even as he was speaking, a bird flew by on the right, an eagle, bearing in his talons a huge white goose, a tame (fowl) from the farmyard, and men and women followed shouting; but the (eagle) came near to them, and darted off to the right in front of the horses; and they rejoiced to see (it), and the hearts in the chests of all (of them) were cheered. And among them Peisistratus, son of Nestor, was the first to speak: "Consider now, Menelaus, fostered by Zeus, leader of your people, whether (it was) for us two that the god showed this portent, or for yourself."

So he spoke, and Menelaus, dear to Ares, pondered (in his mind) how the signs should be rightly interpreted by him. But Helen of the long robes, getting ahead of him, spoke these words: "Hear me, and I shall prophesy as the immortals put (it) in my heart, and as I think it will turn out. Just as the (eagle) that snatched up the goose (that was) bred in the house came from the mountain (i.e. the Taÿgetus) where are his kin and his birthplace, so shall Odysseus return to his home after having suffered many hardships and wanderings, and shall take his revenge; or (he may be) at home even now, and sowing the seeds of disaster for all the suitors."

Ll. 179-221. The Return to Pylos.

Then again wise Telemachus spoke to her in reply: "Now may Zeus, the loud-thundering husband of Hera, make it happen thus; so then I shall pray to you there, even as to a god."

He spoke, and laid his whip on the horses; and they shot very speedily through the city, striving eagerly for the plain. And all day long they shook their yoke as they sustained (it) on both sides. And the sun set and all the roads grew dark; and they came to Pherae, to the house of Diocles, son of Ortilochus, whom Alpheus begat (as) a child. And there they spent the night, and he set before them the entertainments due to guests. 

As soon as rosy-fingered early Dawn appeared, they yoked the horses and mounted their inlaid chariot, and drove out of the gateway and the resounding portico; and he flicked his whip, and the pair sped on, not against their will. And they reached the steep citadel of Pylos, and then Telemachus addressed the son of Nestor: "Son of Nestor, can you undertake something for me and fulfil my request? Now we declare that we are friends through and through, due to our fathers' friendship, and we are, moreover, of a similar age. And this journey will bring us even closer (together) in our joint frame of mind. Do not lead me past my ship, (you) favourite of Zeus, but leave (me) here, lest the old man, wishing to be kind (to me), keeps me there in his house against my will. For I must reach home more quickly (than that would permit)."

So he spoke, and the son of Nestor took thought in his heart as to whether he could properly perform such an undertaking. But, as he pondered, it seemed to be the better (course). (So,) he turned the horses to the swift ship and the shore of the sea, and he unloaded the beautiful gifts, clothing and gold, which Menelaus had given him, and (stowed them) in the stern of the ship. And, by way of encouragement, he spoke these winged words to him: "Make haste now, go on board, and tell all your comrades (to do likewise) before I reach home and report to the old man. For I know this well in my mind and in my heart: his spirit (is) so overbearing that he will not let you go, but he himself will come here to summon (you), and, I tell (you), he will not go back empty-handed; for, at all events, he will be very angry." 

So saying, he drove his horses with their beautiful manes back to the city of the Pylians, and he quickly arrived at the palace. And Telemachus urged on his companions and told (them): "Set all the gear in order in the black ship, comrades, and let us go on board ourselves, so we may embark on our journey."  

So he spoke, and they readily hearkened and obeyed, and at once they went on board and sat down on the benches. 

Ll. 222-264. Theoclymenus the seer.   

Now indeed, he was engaged on his (tasks), and was praying and offering sacrifices to Athene by the stern of the ship; then, a man from a far country drew near to him, (one who was) fleeing from Argos, (because he had) slain a man, (and he was) a seer; now by lineage he was sprung from Melampus, who had previously once lived in Pylos, the mother of flocks, a wealthy (man) dwelling in a very fine house among the Pylians; but then he came to a land of other (men), fleeing from his native-land and great-hearted Neleus, the most illustrious of living (men), who had taken control of his rich estate and kept it by force for a year. During this time he had been bound in grievous bonds in the halls of Phylace (i.e. a city in Thessaly), on account of the daughter of Neleus (i.e. Pero) and the terrible infatuation, which the frightful goddess Erinys (i.e. one of the Furies) had laid on his mind. But he escaped his fate and drove the loud-lowing cattle (i.e. the cattle of Iphiclus, king of Phylace, which Neleus had demanded as the bride-price for Pero, and which Melampus had stolen in order to win Pero for his brother Bias) to Pylos from Phylace, and took his revenge on godlike Neleus for his shameful deed (i.e. of seizing Melampus' estate in Pylos while he was imprisoned in Phylace by Iphiclus), and brought (the maiden) to his home (as) a wife for his brother. Then, he went to the land of other (men), to horse-rearing Argos; for there it was now destined for him to dwell, holding sway over many Argives, and there he married a wife and built a high-roofed mansion, and he begat two sturdy sons, Antiphates and Mantius. Now, Mantius engendered great-hearted Oïcles, and Oïcles Amphiaraus, rouser of the host, whom aegis-bearing Zeus and Apollo heartily loved with every kind of affection; but he did not reach the threshold of old-age, but died in Thebes on account of a woman's gifts (i.e. he was killed during the war of the Seven Against Thebes, in which had become involved at the instigation of his wife Eriphyle, whom Polyneices had successfully bribed by offering her the necklace of Harmonia). And Alcmaeon and Amphilochus were born as his sons. Now, Mantius begat Polypheides and Cleitus; but golden-throned Dawn carried off Cleitus, on account of his beauty, so he could be with the immortals; but Apollo made the high-spirited Polypheides by far the best seer among mortals, when Amphiaraus was dead; having quarelled with his father, he migrated to Hyperesia, where he lived and prophesied to all men. Now it was his son, Theoclymenus by name, who came and stood beside Telemachus; and (there) he found him pouring libations and praying at the side of his swift black ship, and he spoke to him, addressing (him) with these winged words: "O my friend, since I find you making burnt offerings in this place, I beg (you), by those sacrifices and the god (you are worshipping), and then by your own life and (the lives) of the companions who are following you, tell me truly what I ask and do not hide (it from me). Who (are you) among men, (and) from where (do you come)? Where (is) your city, and (who are) your parents?"

Ll. 265-300. Telemachus sails for home.

Then, wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "Stranger, I shall indeed tell you the full truth. I am from Ithaca by birth, and my father is Odysseus, if ever he existed; but now has he perished by a mournful death. For this reason I have now taken my comrades and this black ship, and have come to seek news of my father, (who has been) gone for so long." 

Then, godlike Theoclymenus spoke to him again: "Like you I too (have gone) from my native-country having killed a man of my own tribe; (there are) many brothers and kinsmen (of his) in horse-rearing Argos, and mighty is their power in (the land of) the Achaeans. I am fleeing to escape death and black fate at their (hands), since (it is) now my lot to wander around among men. But please take me on board your ship, since in my flight I am entreating (you) as a suppliant, lest they should slay me; for I think they are pursuing me." 

Then, wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "I shall not banish you from my shapely ship, if you wish (to come with us), but follow: for there you will be welcome to the entertainments, such as we have."

So saying, he took his bronze spear for him and laid it on the deck of his curved ship; and he himself went aboard his sea-going vessel. Then, he sat down in the stern, and he sat Theoclymenus down beside him; and the crew loosened the stern(-cables). And Telemachus urged on his men and told (them) to  fasten the ropes; and they hastily obeyed (him). And they raised the pine-wood mast and stood it inside the socket in the cross-beam, and made it fast with forestays (i.e. ropes stretching between the top of the mast and the prow), and they hoisted the white sail with well-twisted thongs of ox-hide (i.e. halyards, stretching form just below the top of the mast to a point near the stern). And bright-eyed Athene sent them a favourable wind rushing on boisterously across the sky, so that their ship might most speedily accomplish her journey over the salt water of the sea. And they sailed past Crouni and Chalcis (i.e. some springs and a stream in the western Peloponnese just south of the River Alpheus) with its beautifully flowing streams.  

Then, the  sun set and all the ways grew dark; and the (ship) made for Pheae (i.e. a cape on the coast of Southern Elis), sped on by a wind of Zeus, and on past goodly Elis (i.e. a district in the North-West of the Peloponnese) where the Epeans are the rulers. And from there he made for the Sharp Islands (location unknown), pondering (in his mind) whether he should escape death (i.e. at the hands of the suitors) or be taken.

Ll. 301-339. Odysseus plans to go to the town.

But the two of them, Odysseus and the goodly swineherd (i.e. Eumaeus), were eating their supper; and the other men supped with them. But, when they had put from (them) the desire for food and drink, Odysseus spoke among them, testing the swineherd (to see) whether he would still entertain him in a kindly manner, and bid (him) remain there, or pack (him) off to the city: "Now, listen to me, Eumaeus, and all (you) other fellows; in the morning I am longing to go from here to the city to beg, so that I do not exhaust you and your men. But give me good advice, and, at the same time give (me) a trusty guide, who can lead me there. But I, myself, will have to wander through the city, (to see) if someone may offer (me) a cup (of water) and (a piece of) bread. And I would like to go the palace of godlike Odysseus and give my news to wise Penelope, and I would mingle with the insolent suitors, (to see) if they would give me a meal, since they have good cheer in abundance. (And while) among them, I could quickly do well whatevcr (tasks) they wanted. For I tell you, and do you give heed and listen to me! By the favour of Hermes the Messenger, who lends grace and renown to the work of all men, no other mortal can vie with me in service, in properly piling up a fire, and splitting logs, and in cutting up and roasting meat, and pouring wine, and such (tasks), as in which humbler (men) serve their betters."   

Then (O) swineherd Eumaeus, (you were) very indignant and said to him, "O my, stranger, why has such a thought come into your mind? In truth, you must be utterly longing to perish there on the spot, if you really wish to join the throng of wooers, whose wantonness and violence reach the iron heaven. Their serving men are not (of a kind) such as you (are), but (those) who serve them (are) young (men), well clad in cloaks and tunics, and their hair and their handsome faces (are) always gleaming with oil; and their well-polished tables are laden with bread and meat and wine. But stay (here); for no one is distressed by your presence, not I, nor any of the other men who are with me. Moreover, whenever the dear son of Odysseus comes, he will clothe you in a cloak and tunic, and he will send (you) wherever your heart and spirit bids you (go)."  

Ll. 340-379. Eumaeus tells of Odysseus' parents.

And then the much-enduring noble Odysseus answered him: "Would that you, Eumaeus, might be as dear to father Zeus as (you are) to me, in that you have stopped me from wandering and from (suffering) grievous hardship. Nothing else is more evil for mortals than roaming; but, for the sake of their accursed stomach, men bear evil woes, when wandering and sorrow and pain come upon them. But now, since you are holding (me) back,and are bidding me await that man's (i.e. Telemachus') arrival, come tell me about the mother of godlike Odysseus, and of the father, whom he left behind on the threshold of old age, when he went. Perhaps they are still living beneath the rays of the sun, or maybe they are already dead and and are in the house of Hades."  

Then, the swineherd, that leader of men, answered him again: "Well then, my guest, I will tell you (it all) most exactly. Laertes still lives, but he prays all the time to Zeus that his spirit may waste away from his limbs within his halls; for he grieves terribly for his son who is gone, and for his wise wedded wife (i.e. Anticleia), whose death caused him the greatest grief and brought (him) to an untimely old age. She died of grief for her glorious son, a miserable death, such as no man should die, who dwells here, and is my friend and does kind (things for me). So, as long as she was living, despite all her grief, it was always something pleasant for me to ask and inquire (of her), because she had brought me up, together with her comely daughter, Ctimene of the flowing robes, whom she bore (as) the youngest of her children; I was reared together with her, and she honoured me (only) a little less. But, when we both reached the much-loved prime of youth, then they gave her in marriage to (someone on) Same, and they gained countless (wedding gifts), but me she clad in a cloak and tunic, right goodly raiment, and she gave me sandals for my feet, and sent me off into the field; but in her heart she loved me right well. Yet now I am in want of such (things); but for my own (part), the blessed gods foster the work on which I depend (for my livelihood); of these (things) I have eaten and drunk and given to the deserving. But from my mistress (i.e. Penelope) I hear nothing that is kind, either in word or deed in any way, since overweening men have fallen upon her house (like) a plague; yet, greatly do servants long to speak before their mistress and learn about everything (that is going on), and to eat and drink and take away something to the fields as well, such (things) as always warm a servant's heart.   

Ll. 380-414. Eumaeus begins to tell his own tale.

Then, Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, said to him in reply: "But surely now, when you were young, swineherd Eumaeus, you were taken far away from your homeland and your parents. But come now, tell me this, and tell (it to me) truly, was it sacked, that broad-streeted city of men, in which your father and your queenly mother dwelt, or (was it) when you were alone with your sheep or with your cattle (that) hostile men took you in their ships and exported you to the house of this here man (i.e. Laertes), and he gave (them) a worthy price (for you)?" 

Then, the swineherd, that leader of men, addressed him again: "My friend, since you are asking and questioning me about these (matters), now do you listen in silence, and enjoy yourself and drink your wine, as you sit (here). And these nights are wonderfully long; now there is time for sleep and there is time to listen to those who enjoy (telling a story); nor is there any need for you to lie down early; for too much sleep is a (source of) annoyance. As for the others, (if a man's) heart and spirit bids (him do) it, let him go to sleep. And when dawn comes, let him eat and follow his master's swine. But we two will drink and feast in the hut, and have joy as we learn of each other's grievous afflictions. For, thereafter, any man who has suffered a great deal and has wandered around a lot finds joy even in woes. But I will tell you what (it is) that you are asking and inquiring of me.   

"There is a certain island called Syria - perhaps you may have heard of it - beyond Ortygia, where (there are) the turning places of the sun; (it is) not so very thickly populated, but (it is) a good (land), rich in herds, rich in flocks, abounding in wine and full of wheat. Famine never comes to this land, nor does any other hateful sickness fall upon wretched mortals; but, when the tribes of men grow old across the city, Apollo of the silver bow comes with Artemis and assails them with his gentle shafts and slays (them). There (there are) two cities, and the whole (island) is divided in two between them; and my father, Ctesius, son of Ormenus, like to the immortals, was king of both of them.  

Ll. 415-453. Eumaeus continues his story. 

Thither came Phoenicians, men famed for their ships, greedy knaves, bringing countless trinkets in their black ship. Now, there was a Phoenician woman in my father's house, beautiful and tall (she was) and skilled in glorious handicraft, but the wily Phoenicians deceived her. Firstly, one of them came upon her, as she was washing (clothes), and lay in love (with her) down by the hollow ship, and such (things) beguile the minds of tender women, even (one) who is virtuous. Then, he asked (her) who she was and from where she came; and straightway she pointed to my father's high-roofed house, (and said,) "I declare I come from Sidon, rich in bronze, and I am the daughter of Arybas, a man of abundant wealth; but men of plunder seized me as I was coming from the fields and brought me here to the house of yonder man; and he paid (them) a worthy price (for me)."  

Then, the man who had lain (with her) in secret spoke to her: "So do you now wish to go back with us to your home, so you may see the high-roofed house of your father and mother, and them (as well)? For they are still living and are called wealthy." 

Then, the woman spoke to him again, and answered in these words: "This may well be the case, if you sailors will swear an oath to me to bring me home unharmed."

So she spoke, and then they all swore an oath as she had bid (them). But, when they had sworn and completed that oath, the woman again spoke among them and answered in these words: "Be silent now and do not let any one of your companions accost me with words, if he should meet me in the street, or perhaps at the well, lest someone should go to the palace and tell the old (king), and, if he suspects, he will bind me in tight bonds, and contrive your destruction. But keep my words in your minds, and speed up the buying of your wares. But, when your ship becomes filled with goods, then let a message come to me swiftly at the palace: for I will bring some gold, whatever comes into my hand; and I will also pay you another fare. For in the house I am tending a child of my noble master, (a child) so cute that he runs around outside with me; and I shall bring him on board the ship, and he will fetch you a high price, wherever you may take (him) for sale among men of strange tongues."    

Ll. 454-492. Eumaeus completes his story.

Thus speaking, she went back to our fine palace, and they stayed there beside us for a whole year, and loaded much cargo in their hollow ship. But, when their hollow ship was laden for them to depart, then they sent a messenger to bring the news to the woman. The cunning fellow came to my father's house, bearing a golden necklace, and it was strung with amber (beads) between (the golden parts). In the hall the handmaids and my queenly mother were fondling it with their hands and fixing their eyes on (it), while promising (to pay) the price (for it); and he nodded to her in silence. Now in truth, after he had nodded (to her), he went his way to the hollow ship, and she took me by the hand and led me out of the house. Now, in the vestibule she found both the tables and the cups of the banqueting men, who paid attention to my father. They had gone to a session (of the council) and to a parley of the people, but she hastily hid three goblets in her bosom and bore (them) off, and I, in my childish innocence, followed (her). Then, the sun set and all the ways grew dark; but we went quickly and came to the well-known harbour, where the swift sea-going ship was (lying). Then, they embarked, and, putting both of us on board (as well), they sailed over the watery ways; and Zeus sent forth a fair wind. For six days we sailed, night and day alike; but, when Zeus, the son of Cronos, brought the seventh day upon (us), then, Artemis, who delights in arrows, smote the woman, and she fell with a crash into the hold, like a sea-gull plunges (into the sea). And they cast her (body) overboard to be prey for the seals and the fishes; but I was left sore at heart; now, the wind and the current bore (them) along and drove them to Ithaca, where Laertes bought me with his wealth. Thus (it was that) I beheld this land with my eyes." 

Then, Zeus-born Odysseus replied to him once more in these words: "Eumaeus, now in very truth you have stirred the heart in my breast by recounting all these miseries which you have suffered in your heart. But, in truth, Zeus has given you some good (luck) side by side with bad, since, after many toils, you came to the house of a kindly man, who has provided you with food and drink in a generous fashion, and you live a good life, whereas I have come here, after wandering through many cities of men."

Ll. 493-524. Telemachus arrives back on Ithaca. 

So they said such (things) to one another, and then they went to sleep, not for a long time, but for a short space of time; for fair-throned Dawn came soon. Now, Telemachus (came) near to the shore, and his shipmates furled the sail and quickly took down the mast, and rowed the (ship) forward to her anchorage with their oars; then, they cast out the mooring-stones, and made fast the stern-cables; and they themselves stepped out on to the shore of the sea, and they prepared a meal and mixed the sparkling wine. But, when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, then was wise Telemachus the first to speak among them: "Now you row the black ship to the city, but I shall visit the fields and herdsmen; and in the evening, when I have looked over my tilled lands, I will come down to the city. And, in the morning, I shall set before you, (as) the wages for your travels, a goodly feast of meat and sweet wine."  

Then, godlike Theoclymenus addressed him once more: "So where am I to go, dear child? Of the men who rule over rocky Ithaca, to whose house am I to go? Or shall I go straight to the house of your mother and yourself?" 

And wise Telemachus said to him in reply: "In other (circumstances) I should also bid you go to our (house); but at present there is no desire to entertain guests; but for yourself (it would be even) worse, since I shall be away from you, and my mother will not see you; for she does not often show herself to the suitors in the house, but she weaves at her loom in the upper part of the (palace). But I tell you of another man, to whom you may go, Eurymachus, the splendid son of wise Polybus, whom the people of Ithaca now look upon as though (he were) a god; for (he is) by far the best man, and is most eager to marry my mother and to gain the honour of Odysseus. But, with regard to these particular (things), Olympian Zeus, who dwells in the sky, knows whether before the marriage he will fulfil the evil day.    

Ll. 525-557. Peiraeus agrees to take Theoclymenus into his home. 

Then, even as he spoke, a bird flew by on his right, a hawk (it was), the swift messenger of Apollo; and it was holding a dove in its talons, and plucking (her), and her feathers were dropping down to the ground midway between the ship and Telemachus himself. Then, Theoclymenus beckoned him away from his men, and clung tightly to his hand, and spoke these words and addressed (him) by name: "Telemachus, surely this bird has not flown past on our right without the aid of a god, for I knew as I looked straight at him that he was a bird of omen. No other stock in the land of Ithaca is more regal than yours, and indeed you will always (be) in power."   

Then wise Telemachus spoke to him again in reply: "Ah, my friend, may this word (of yours) be fulfilled; then, at once you would be aware of my friendship and many gifts from me, so that anyone who meets you would call (you) blessed."  

Then, he spoke to his faithful companion Peiraeus and said: "Peiraeus, son of Clytius, of all of my companions who went with me to Pylos, you were the most ready to comply with my (wishes); and now, I (bid you), take this stranger into your house, and welcome (him) in a kindly manner, and show (him) honour, until I come (back)."

Then, Peiraeus, the famous spearman, said to him in reply: "Telemachus, even if you wish to remain there for a long time, I will entertain this (man), and, in his case, there will not be any lack of hospitality."  

So he spoke and went on board the ship and ordered his comrades to embark themselves and to let loose the stern cables. Then, they embarked at once and sat down upon the benches. But Telemachus fastened his fine sandals beneath his feet, and took his mighty spear, tipped with sharp bronze, from the deck of the ship; then, they loosened the stern cables. Thrusting off, they sailed to the city, as Telemachus, the dear son of godlike Odysseus, had ordered (them); and as he strode swiftly forward, his feet bore him (on), until he reached the farmyard, where were his very numerous swine, and among them he who was the goodly swineherd was accustomed to sleep, (the man who) knew (what things were) helpful to his masters.