Importance of the Telemachy in Developing Major Themes of...

The Importance of the Telemachy in Developing Major Themes of Odyssey As we begin to read the Odyssey, one of the surprising facts is that we do not meet the famed hero until we are well into Book V, on Calypsos island of Ogygia. However, during these introductory four books, we learn of the situation in Ithaca, Odysseus plight, some of the most important themes of the story and of course Odysseus son Telemachus. Homer keeps us in suspense, building the reputation of Odysseus by the stories of Menelaus, Helen, Nestor and all Odysseus friends in Ithaca. Also, by building up the character and heroism of Telemachus, we are impressed by him, and as Athene says your fathers manly vigour has descended upon you. We would expect†¦show more content†¦He gives the unwise Aegisthus as an example - a man who strayed from his fate, disobeyed divine advice and was punished for his murder of Agamemnon by the avenging Orestes. This story of Orestes avenging his fathers death will be repeated again and again, not only in the Telemachy, but also elsewhere in th e book. The story is compared to the Ithacan situation, usually emphasised differently with different people (e.g. Nestor compares Telemachus to Orestes, be as brave as Orestes, in encouragement, building upon his minimal kleos). A small recurring theme here is the role of Hermes as the god who helps and advises people over their actions. Here he warned Aegisthus, later he will tell Calypso not to bring Zeus anger upon her and to let Odysseus go, and once more when he gives the vital herb moly that saves Odysseus from the spells of Circe. Athene asks Zeus to send Hermes to Ogygia due his skills as a messenger (even if he doesnt enjoy the trip! It seemed unending Hermes). In these actions and her actions all through the Telemachy we begin to realise the supreme protectiveness and affection that she has for Odysseus and even his family. Nestor mentions this also, if we had not already inferred it - never in my life have I seen the gods display such open affection as Pallas Athene. The theme of divine intervention is a major one but one must also remember that it comes hand in hand with the fact that men make their own