Books 1-4

BOOKS 1-4

Overall Summary

In book one, Zeus and Athena are discussing Telemachus and his father. Athena visits Telemachus and tells him to call a meeting for all for all of his mother’s suitors.

In book two, Telemachus called a meeting for all of his mother’s suitors. He requested that they leave the property, but the men refused. They stated that his mother said she would marry when she was finished making a funeral shroud. For three years, she wove it, and then unraveled it at night. A servant tattled on her, and now she must marry. Telemachus prepares to head to sea to find out more about his father.

In book three, Nestor tells Telemachus about Odysseus and his experiences with the war. He sends his own son Pisistratus along to accompany Telemachus to Sparta.

In book four, Menelaus and Helen recognize Telemachus as Odysseus’ son. Telemachus finds out that his father is alive and imprisoned, and return to Pylos to set sail to Ithaca. Meanwhile, the suitors at Odysseus’s house learn of Telemachus’s voyage and prepare to ambush him upon his return.

Major Theme: Hospitality

Penelope and Telemachus allow the suitors to eat them out of house and home because in this society, how you treated your guests was very important. We also see this in book three, Nestor allows Telemachus and his crew to have a large meal before questioning anything. Basically, your guests are allowed to eat whatever they want when they arrive at your home. It wasn’t polite to reject them.

Character List:

Zeus

Telemachus

Athena (Mentes, Mentor)

Penelope

Aegyptius

Antinous

Eurymachus

Antinous

Halitherses

Eurycleia

Nestor

Pisistratus

Menelaus

Helen