Essay | The Final Honor

The recognition scene between Odysseus and Penelope in book 19 and 20 reveals their different inner thoughts and personalities, or even deeply demonstrates the different Greek social standards to value men or women.

Although sometimes Odysseus is an amorous lover who has affairs with goddesses throughout his voyage, or sometimes he is a manipulative liar who tries to survive in situations, he is still portrayed as a great king, warrior and hero. On the contrary, as the ideal woman, Penelope should be faithful, loyal, obedient, and selfless for the husband and the child.

Before meeting Penelope, Odysseus sees his son, Telemachus, and reveals himself to him with little hesitation. Argos, the aged dog of Odysseus, remembers him and passes away with "thumped his tail, nuzzling low, and his ears dropped" (17, 332). Therefore, Homer creates a climactic ride to the scene when Penelope and Odysseus finally meet....
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