The Odyssey Book Eighteen

Book Eighteen Another beggar called Irus tells Odysseus to get out of the palace, (he sees him as a rival). Odysseus replies that he means no harm. The place is big enough for both of them. Antinous noticed the two beggars arguing with each other, he decides to set up a boxing match for the suitor’s entertainment.

Book Eighteen Odysseus manages to get their word that they will not take Irus’ side when the fight takes place. It does not take much for Odysseus to silence the beggar with a punch to the neck. The suitors are amused with Odysseus’ strength but are also unnerved by it.

Book Eighteen Penelope, who is made more beautiful by Athene, appears before the suitors, who are astonished by her beauty. She gives out to her son for allowing strangers to be treated badly in the palace. She declares to the suitors that the day will come very soon when she will remarry. She suggests to the suitors that the normal practice is for them to bring gifts, not to enjoy free meals at her expense. The suitors order presents to be offered to Penelope.

Book Eighteen Meanwhile, Odysseus sits by, watching the feasting that continues in the hall. Eurymachus a leading suitor insults Odysseus who replies that he is only a bully, who talks a lot, but would be made to pay for his insolence, when the king returns to his palace. Odysseus ducks a stool that is flung at him by Eurymachus but it hits a servant who is carrying a jug of wine. The palace descends into uproar. Telemachus restores peace by ordering more wine for the suitors.

Book Eighteen: Important Points Note how Odysseus handles himself both with Irus and the jeers of the suitors’, he is in control of events so far. There is no end to the abuse Odysseus receives: Melanthius kicks him, Irus wants to box him, the suitors hurl stools and heap verbal abuse upon him. Odysseus shows remarkable patience. Note the suitors completely disregard for the laws of hospitality, for which they will be punished.

Book Eighteen: Important Points Note how Penelope cleverly gets gifts out of the suitors by pretending to say she is ready for re-marriage, even Odysseus senses the trickery here. Tensions are rising at the palace, there is much misbehaviour. The ordered world: respect for strangers, courtesy, etc. seems wanting. There is a desperate need to restore the natural order and return Odysseus’ palace to what it once was.