|
|
This is only a preview of the paper
Click here to register and get the full text.
Existing members click here to login
|
|
|
Almost three thousand years ago, a Greek writer named Homer wrote an epic poem called The Odyssey. It has been translated many times over the centuries. This paper will examine Homer’s use of language in Book XXII, lines one through sixty, as translated by Robert Fitzgerald. Immediately prior to this passage, Odysseus has returned to his kingdom of Ithaka. Disguised as a beggar, he hatches a plan to murder Penelope’s suitors and regain control of Ithaka. The first sixty lines of Book XXII describe Odysseus’ slaying of Antinoos and his vengeful promises of death to the other suitors. Is Odysseus a murderer? Homer uses imagery and word choice to convince readers that he is not, that his vengeance is really justice. Odysseus has been away from Ithaka for nineteen years when he finally returns to find men occupying his home, eating his food, and trying to force marriage upon his wife, Penelope. He tries to hatch a plan to kill the suitors and regain control of Ithaka. Disguised as a beggar, he convinces Penelope that Odysseus is alive, and on his way home to her. Penelope gives the beggar a bow that only Odysseus can string. When Odysseus confronts the suitors, he asks for Apollo’s help to shoot Antinoos, the ringleader. At the sight of Antinoos dead, the suitors threaten to kill the beggar, believing that the killing is accidental. Odysseus takes off his disguise and reveals himself. Afraid of death, Eurymakhos blames the suitors’ actions on Antinoos, and offers full restitution to Odysseus, plus oxen and riches. Angry and vengeful, Odysseus does not forgive them for their sins and warns them of their upcoming bloody deaths.
Approximate Word count = 1073
Approximate Pages = 4.3
(250 words per page double spaced)
|
|
|
|
|
|