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Lessons Learned From The Telemachus In Homer's Odyssey

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There is an important lesson that Telemachus stands to learn from the Telemachy. That lesson would be the transition from boyhood, to manhood. The Telemachy helps provoke much thought on this particular lesson that Telemachus stands to learn throughout the journey of books 1 through 4 of The Odyssey of Homer. Beginning in book 1, Telemachus is unhappy about what is happening in his home. His mother, Penelope, is under force to become remarried due to the disappearance and/or death, of her husband, Odysseus. Telemachus is not happy about this. As Penelope tried to decide what song the bard should sing for the suitors, Telemachus sent her to her room, signaling the first time he takes authority over a situation (1.15). The suitors were not used to or happy with his suddenly brave tongue (1.16). Penelope encourages this as we go on. …show more content…

He then announces his wants to visit Sparta and Pylos to search for Odysseus, his father. This is the first journey away from home, showing the distinction from boyhood to manhood (2.30). Continuing into book 3, Telemachus is taught of the concept called xenia. Nestor, the king of Pylos, goes by the social contract of xenia, and shows Telemachus a good time while he is there. Nestor tells Telemachus stories of Odysseus during the Trojan War as well as Orestes, praising him immensely. Telemachus learns and appreciates the ways of his father, and so decides to follow the story of Orestes, and kill the suitors to take back his father’s home (3.52). Lastly, in book 4, Telemachus visits Menelaus in Sparta. In this part of the journey, we learn more details of the Trojan War, and also that Odysseus is still alive but captured by Calypso (4.71). Menelaus continues, talking of tales about Odysseus’ bravery and cunningness, educating Telemachus about the heroism is father had, which he believes he should also

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