First, a line that reveals something about the world of The Odyssey
- “I would prefer to drink the sea and die at once, then perish slowly, shriveled up here on this desert island” (Book XII, 350-352)
This line is particularly revealing as it highlights the importance (and Struggle) of transitioning from a mentality that rewards individuals during wartime, to one that benefits you during times of peace. In this instance, Eurylochus displays the former, the idea of embracing death as opposed to inaction (patience) seen as honorable. This is an idea that was stressed in the Illiad to some extent, Odysseus himself an example through his decision to strike down Thersites due to his suggestion to retreat.
However, in this situation, that wartime mentality is punished, Zeus creating physical repercussions for the decisions made by Eurylochus and his men (“thundered and hurled his lightning bolts) – our awareness that all by Odysseus will die (dramatic irony) adding to the overall severity of the punishment meted out. A point to consider is how the consequences of this decision are similar to many made by Odysseus and his crew throughout their journey from Troy. The raid on the Cicones for instance, where the men are punished for their actions when reinforcement shows up (the key consideration in this instance is that they are initially successful, but did not stop to re-evaluate the situation and depart, all too willing to continue to fight as the importance of timing is lost on them).
Book 24 brings an interesting counterpoint to the idea that Odysseus has learned to transition to a mentality that means success in peacetime. While he has had the patience to plan revenge on the suitors and his success in his efforts, we see that he is then prepared to fight the wealthy families of Ithaca as well. Athena is the one who has to intervene and prevent further bloodshed (ordering everyone, including Odysseus, to desist). He follows the command (contrasting the actions of his men, who disobeyed him both when he decided they should leave the Cicones, as well as regarding the cattle of Helios) and demonstrates that he is adaptable (can be patient and understands timing). However, the fact that Athena has to intervene in the first place hints that Odysseus has not changed as much as audiences might think (consider that he was about to conduct an action similar to Orestes, who while avenging his father, also commits matricide that ends in him being disfavoured by the gods).
Image-making Level
- “They cackled, and they lost control of their own faces. Plates of meat began to drip with blood. Their eyes were full of tears, and they began to wail in grief” (Book XX, 346-350)
Love the way these few lines, in particular, foreshadow what is soon going to happen the suitors. The manner in which it starts to begin more chaotic, the actions of the suits and their surroundings increasingly exaggerated, creates a heightened sense of tension (as well as a sense of impending doom in audiences).
A Lovely Line
- “There is nothing more admirable than when two people who see eye to eye keep house as man and wife, confounding their enemies and delighting their friends.”
