9.2 The concept of nostos (homecoming) in the epic

The concept of nostos, or homecoming, is central to Odysseus' epic journey in The Odyssey. It encompasses not just his physical return to Ithaca, but also the emotional and psychological challenges he faces along the way.

Odysseus' nostos is marked by transformation, identity struggles, and reunion with loved ones. His journey home tests his wit, loyalty, and determination, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation with the suitors and the reclaiming of his rightful place as king.

Odysseus' Homecoming

The Concept of Nostos

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• Nostos is a central theme in the Odyssey referring to the hero's homecoming or return journey after a long absence
• Odysseus' nostos is his arduous and eventful journey back to his homeland, Ithaca, after the Trojan War
• The concept of nostos encompasses not only the physical journey but also the psychological and emotional challenges faced by the hero during the journey
• Nostos is often associated with the hero's growth, transformation, and the restoration of his identity and status within his homeland

Reunion and Identity in Ithaca

• Odysseus' ultimate goal is to reunite with his wife Penelope and son Telemachus in Ithaca, his kingdom
• Upon his return, Odysseus initially conceals his identity to assess the loyalty of his household and to plan his revenge against Penelope's suitors
• Odysseus' homecoming is marked by a series of recognition scenes where he gradually reveals his identity to his loved ones (Telemachus, Eurycleia, Laertes, Penelope)
• The reunion with Penelope is the climax of Odysseus' nostos, as it symbolizes the restoration of his identity as the rightful king of Ithaca and the completion of his journey

Penelope and Telemachus

Penelope's Loyalty and Cleverness

• Penelope is Odysseus' faithful wife who remains loyal to him during his 20-year absence
• She cleverly fends off the advances of the suitors who seek her hand in marriage, believing Odysseus to be dead
• Penelope devises a clever ruse of weaving a burial shroud for Laertes, Odysseus' father, promising to choose a suitor upon its completion
• Each night, she secretly unravels the shroud to delay her decision, symbolizing her unwavering loyalty to Odysseus

Telemachus' Growth and Role

• Telemachus is Odysseus' son who grows from a boy to a young man during his father's absence
• In the beginning of the Odyssey, Telemachus embarks on his own journey to seek information about his father's fate, demonstrating his maturity and initiative
• Telemachus plays a crucial role in assisting Odysseus in defeating the suitors upon his return to Ithaca
• The relationship between Odysseus and Telemachus is a key aspect of the Odyssey, as it explores themes of father-son bonding, coming of age, and the transmission of knowledge and values

The Suitors and the Loyalty Test

• The suitors are a group of noble men who seek Penelope's hand in marriage and exploit the hospitality of Odysseus' household during his absence
• They represent the antithesis of the values embodied by Odysseus, such as loyalty, honor, and respect for the gods
• Odysseus' return to Ithaca involves a test of loyalty for his household, as he assesses who has remained faithful to him and who has sided with the suitors
• The loyalty test culminates in a dramatic showdown where Odysseus, with the help of Telemachus and loyal servants, confronts and defeats the suitors, restoring order to his household

Odysseus' Journey

Transformation and Growth

• Throughout his journey, Odysseus undergoes significant transformation and growth as a character
• He faces numerous challenges (Cyclops, Sirens, Scylla and Charybdis) that test his wit, resourcefulness, and determination
• Odysseus learns valuable lessons about humility, the importance of following the gods' will, and the consequences of his actions (blinding Polyphemus, angering Poseidon)
• The journey allows Odysseus to mature as a leader, husband, and father, preparing him for his eventual return to Ithaca

Identity and Nostos

• Odysseus' identity is closely tied to his role as the king of Ithaca and his status as a legendary hero of the Trojan War
• Throughout his journey, Odysseus' identity is challenged and transformed as he faces various obstacles and adopts different personas (e.g., "Nobody" with the Cyclops, beggar in Ithaca)
• The theme of identity is central to Odysseus' nostos, as his journey is not only about returning home but also about reclaiming his rightful place in Ithaca
• Odysseus' successful nostos and the restoration of his identity is symbolized by his ability to string his bow and shoot an arrow through twelve axe heads, a feat that only he can accomplish