Essay on Homers Odyssey - Comparing Odysseus and Telemachus :: comparison compare contrast essays

The Parallel between Odysseus and Telemachos in Odyssey In Odyssey, bell ringer creates a parallel between Odysseus and Telemachos, father and son. The two ar comp ared in the metrical composition from every aspect. One parallel was the quest of Telemachos, in correlation with the jaunt of his father. In this, Odysseus is developed from a childish, passive, and untested boy, to a young valet de chambre preparing to stand by his fathers side. This is directly connected to the voyage of Odysseus, in that they twain lead to the same finale, and are two stepping-stones towards wisdom, manhood, and scholarship. Through these voyages certain parallels are drawn concerning Odysseus and Telemachos the physical journeys, the mental preparations they have produced, and the resulting change in mad makeup. These play an immense role in the way the allegory is put up, due to the purpose of each characters journey, their personal challenges, and the difficulties that surround them. As Homer makes it apparent, there are other underlying themes embedded in the story that would just confuse the reader if they were not there. An example of this is the emotional aspects of both characters. If one does not understand this key element, their is no way that the while of events would cohere. Why didnt Telemachos look for his father earlier? Why did Penelope await twenty years to consider remarrying? How did this affect Odysseus in his journey?. These are questions that would go unanswered unless the reader reaches within the emotions of the character. In the case of Telemachos, his emotions wrought his well being. For example, had it not been for Athene giving him confidence, by no nub would he ever have thought of taking such a voyage, hence, Telemachos would have never participated in his final test against the suitors either. His sorrow and see red from the loss of his father and his mother constantly being attacked and proposed to by piranha-like suitors wer e withal driving forces towards his journey. Some of these are brought out in different situations, both positive and negative, such as Menaleuss mention of his father, which caused a sudden out-burst of tears, and the lofty and accomplished feeling he received from leaving Sparta.. Odysseuss situation was just now slightly different. He, like Telemachos had his worries about family-life, and his kingdom at stake, but withal had concerns about his wife, possibly triggered by the mention of Agamemnons by Proteus, who was killed by the turn over of his own wife.