Telemachus Relationship With Telemachus In Homer's Odyssey

Distribution

The distribution of food aids in the growth of relationships by bringing people together. Whether people wait in line to receive food from the Smith dining halls or a parent calls their child to the table, the announcement of food alerts people to gather. In these moments, eating leads to interaction and communication. Within the Odyssey, Athena used the exchange of food as a platform to build a unique, ritualized friendship with Telemachus. First, Telemachus exhibited his ability to properly host in accordance with Greek tradition (Od. 1. 138-146). Thus, reaffirming Athena’s capacity to exceed the expectations of a proper houseguest. While in disguise, Athena provided Telemachus with the perfect opportunity to accommodate her,

Not only did he jump into action to assist Mentes (Athena) at the door, but he also made sure that she received a proper welcome. In fact, his maids brought out a golden basin for water, lavish appetizers, platters of carved meat, and golden cups for wine (Od. 1. 160-169). Telemachus even went so far as offering a prize of honor, upon Mentes’ exit. What truly made Telemachus a distinguished host was his intrinsic motivation to assist Mentes in feeling royally welcome. With no idea that he was in the presence of a goddess, he still managed to treat his guest to the highest standards. More importantly, Athena returned the favor with proper guest etiquette. Ergo, Athena’s role as a guest developed into an exceptional form of ritualized friendship, after she offered critical advice to Telemachus’. In the absence of Odysseus, Athena took the initiative to guide Telemachus in the search for his father. Athena even requested that Telemachus heed her advice and be brave, so that men to come will sing his praises in the future. (Od.1.347). In this situation, Athena acted as though Telemachus were her true kin, which allowed for a permanent and almost fatherly connection to form. Without sitting down to talk over a meal, Athena would lack an excuse to interact with Telemachus. Hence, the hospitality associated with feasting is often a means to develop this form of

Circe, a beautiful witch-goddess noted this vulnerability and took advantage of Odysseus's’ men when they visited her home. Circe, “ushered them in to sit on high backed chairs, then she mixed them a potion- cheese, barely and pale honey mulled in pramnian wine- but into the brew she stirred her wicked drugs” (Od. 10. 256-259). The eagerness of Odysseus’s peers depicts the susceptibility of men, when presented with food. Once again, people mistakenly let their guard down for the sake of food, when Odysseus and his posse reached the land of the Lotus-Eaters (Od. 9. 94-95). After eating this flower, his men fell into a state of comfort to the point where they never wanted to leave, which thwarted their journey. On the other hand, Athena used Telemachus’ vulnerability as an opportunity to give him fatherly advice. Thus demonstrating proper guest