Ithaca

Ithaca is the island where Odysseus is from. Before he becomes king, Laertes and Anticleia rule the kingdom. Though contrary to tradition, after Odysseus marries Penelope, he brings his new wife and her dowry back to his home island. The majority of the events Penelope describes occur here.

When Odysseus joins the effort to recover Helen from Troy, Penelope stays in Ithaca alone with their infant son Telemachus. She struggles to maintain order as neither Odysseus's parents nor his servants or nurse respect her. With time, she learns to rule Ithaca and control the slaves and members of the court. When a troupe of aggressive Suitors storms the island, new drama ensues.

Ithaca is also the sight of the Suitors' and the 12 maids' murders. Though Odysseus does return to the island after his seafaring adventures, he leaves shortly afterwards.

Sparta

Sparta is Penelope's home island, governed by her...