Student Essay on Arete
Arete by Homer
(c)2024 BookRags, Inc. All rights reserved.
Essay
The name Arete is translated to mean in one word influential, describing the Queen of the Phaeacians. In book 7 Athena (disguised as a little girl) describes Arete as one who "answers all our prayers" (7.64). Athena in addition tells the white armed queen "lacks nothing in good sense and judgment." (7.83). From these descriptions we can declare Arete is influential. As told by Athena in book 7 "The Queen is the first you'll light on in the halls." (7.61) she is also the most important. As a result of what Athena has told the reader in book 7 Arete is portrayed as the leader of the household, who is fair and smart and helpful. Odysseus clearly realizing Arete is the leader thus begging her instead of begging Alcinous [the king of the Phaeacians]. Prior to Odysseus' meeting with the White Armed Queen, Athena informs him of her disposition, "Arete, she is called and earns the name" (7.62).