Athena | Penelope | Odysseus; Analyzation

Many people question whether Penelope and Athena are both in love with Odysseus and might also be competing for his love. 

Both of these women have way two different relationships with the great Odysseus. 

He is deeply in love with his wife, as Penelope is in love with him. Such a strong love is what actually brings Odysseus back home. He chose not to stay with the beautiful, immortal, goddess Calypso. He could have remained with her and possessed all the comforts in the world and even more, But the need for his wife and his family led him back to where he truly belongs. Penelope has waited for him faithfully for 20 years. Being burdened with all the suitors who roam around her her house destroying it and defying Telemachus' authority as the king's son, and next ruler of Ithaca. But over all this, she never loses hope or tries to leave her dear husband who has left her lonely for so long. 

Athena has a closer relationship than normal with Odysseus than the typical immortal to mortal bond. She admires his wisdom, courage, bravery, and all the characteristics he possesses. She believes they are very much alike, which is why she helps him throughout this epic poem. Athena also encourages Telemachus to cause issues between himself and the suitors so that his mother will be free until Odysseus finally returns home. 

In conclusion, Penelope is really the one that possesses Odysseus heart and has much power over him. And Athena is not angry at this. She does not see Odysseus as a lover but more like a close friend whom she admires and finds a close relationship with. She is glad to help Odysseus back home to his wife's love which was her purpose since the beginning of the book. 

Quote 3; Book 3

Book 3 (p. 107-108) (lines 14- 22)

"Telemachus climbed out last, with Athena far in front and the bright-eyed goddess urged the prince along: "Telemachus, no more shyness, this is not the time! We sailed the seas for this, for news of your father-where does he lie buried? What fate did he meet? So go right up to Nestor, breaker of horses. We'll make him yield the secrets of his heart. Press him yourself to tell the whole truth: he'll never lie- the man is far too wise."

-Athena 

Response.. 

In this part of the poem, Athena is disguised as Mentes and has traveled with Telemachus to gain some information about his father, Odysseus. She is encouraging him, telling him he traveled all this way for a purpose and shouldn't let anything hold him back. 

Athena | Telemachus | Odysseus

Odysseus and Athena's relationship is like no other. After reading the poem, we can clearly see that not only does she have a bond with Odysseus, but also with many of the other characters involved in the story.

At the start of the book, Athena practically begs Zeus into helping Odysseus get back home. She does it in a wise manner, by asking Zeus questions and sort of persuading him to agree with her and what she wants to do about Odysseus; instead of making him feel forced or ordered around. 

In many occasions, The Bright-Eyed Goddess changes Odysseus appearance in order to help him get through an obstacle in his way of getting home. 

Athena demonstrate in this epic poem that she is a woman of action as much as Odysseus is a man of action and wisdom. She was the mastermind behind the suitor's slaughter by Odysseus and som when he returns home. 

Throughout the book, Athena is also very active in protecting Telemachus, son of Odysseus. She disguises herself as Mentes and personally visits him to encourage him to keep the search for his father and not lose hope. 

Quote 2; Book 13

Book 13 (p. 296) (lines 335-343)

"Come, enough of this now. We're both old hands at the arts of intrigue. Here among mortal men you're far the best at tactics, spinning yarns, and I am famous among the gods for wisdom, cunning wiles, too. Ah but you never recognized me, did you? Pallas Athena, daughter of Zeus-who always stands beside you, shields you in every exploit: thanks to me the Phaeacians all embraced you warmly."

-Athena 

Response.. 

Here, Athena admits to everything. She confesses to Odysseus that she's always beside him no matter what. Aiding him, guiding him, and making sure he's safe. From this one must assume that Athena even likes Odysseus. She never forgets about him. It seems as if he's her main focus. 

Quote 1; Book 22

Book 22 (p. 446) (lines 236-246) 

“Where’s it gone, Odysseus-your power, your fighting heart? The great soldier who  fought for famous white-armed Helen, battling Trojans nine long years-nonstop, no mercy, mowing their armies down in grueling battle-you who seized the broad streets of Troy with your fine strategic stroke! How can you-now you’ve returned to your own house, your own wealth-bewail the loss of your combat strength in a war with suitors? Come, old friend, stand by me! You’ll see action now, see how Mentor the son of Alcimus, that brave fighter, kills your enemies, pays you back for your service!”

-Athena 

Response..

Athena, disguised as Mentor, stands right beside Odysseus as he reveals himself to the suitors and threatens to end their lives. As he is in battle, he cries out for some assistance. Athena is outraged, since this is a man known for great bravery and courage. He would have never done such a thing in war. He can fight in a 10-year-long war but can’t even do the same against a bunch of suitors? Threatening his house, his wife, his son? Odysseus might have forgotten how much strength he possesses. But I am surprised as how mad Athena seems to be. In the end, Mentor/Athena assists Odysseus in slaughtering every last suitor.

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