The Role of Women Odyssesy

The relationship between Athena and Odysseus is the perfect example of the relationship between the woman and the hero in this poem. Athena, goddess of wisdom and battle, and daughter of Zeus, is seen assisting both Odysseus and Telemachus in many difficult situations simply because of the talents and physical attributes such as being confident, practical, clever, and a great warrior, ch

One woman that is clearly overlooked in this poem is Eurycleia, simply because she bares the title of being a servant for Odysseus and Penelope’s family. Although she was labeled a servant, Odysseus’ family treated as if she was one of their own as she displayed qualities such as being a loyal, honest, and trustworthy person. An example of her loyalty is simply exhibited by the fact that she not cared for Odysseus as a child, but also his son, Telemachus. Her dedication and care for that family was well-appreciated as Penelope even said, "I have an ancient woman of an understanding heart, that diligently nursed and tended that hapless man my lord, she took him in her arms in the hour when his mother bare him." (Book XIX) It was as if she was Odysseus’ and Telemachus’ second mother in that she found out about Odysseus secret identity by the scar he had in his leg from when he was a child. Her compassion allowed for others to confide in her being that around the palace she was well-respected by all.

Calypso is one of the two female figures whose love becomes an obstacle for Odysseus’ journey back home. Calypso is a beautiful woman who entices him with her beauty, sex, and immortality. She falls in love with him and traps him in the island of Ogygia for seven years. She has imprisoned him and it is not until Hermes arrives that Odysseus is released. Calypso’s promiscuous actions lead to a final plea so that Odysseus may stay with her. She offers him what no other human in the poem has: immortality. “…you’d stay right here, preside our house with me and be immortal” (Book V). But even with that offer, Odysseus had his mind set on going back home to be with his wife, Penelope and children. It was Calypso’s seductiveness and control that held Odysseus in the island for nearly seven years.

aracteristics that are similar to hers. Although the poem fails to mention much of At

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