While working as a nurse, Eurycleia finds herself talking to a beggar. He claims to be a former soldier who fought in the Trojan War with Odysseus. Eurycleia, yet, does not recognize him. While giving a bath to the soldier, she sees a unique boar’s scar on his leg. Odysseus had such, so she recognizes her ruler.
Detailed answer:
The inspiring love story between Odysseus and Penelope has touched many hearts. It became an example of two soulmates finding their way back to each other after a long split. Odysseus departed for the Trojan War and left his wife, Penelope, and a son Telemachus. He is yet to return even after several years after the fall of Troy. Many suitors have tried to pillage the man’s land and court his wife Penelope, though she remained faithful to her beloved.
While numerous men were trying to win Penelope’s hand, Odysseus was trapped on an island cursed by a nymph Calypso. The goddess Athena helped Odysseus, convincing his son to start searching for the father. When the hero was found, Athena decided to disguise him as a beggar. If Odysseus showed his real face, he would be in danger. There were many suitors ready to kill him and take over the kingdom. Upon arrival at the palace, Odysseus faced abuse and insults from the suitors. The nurse Eurycleia volunteered to help the man.
While she was washing the feet of a suppliant, she noticed a scar that only Odysseus could have. At that moment, she realized that the person was him. She hugged her ruler, but he silenced the nurse, not to give the secret away. After that, Penelope became interested in a strange man, assuming that he could be her husband. However, when Odysseus described a mantle and clasp she had given him, the doubts vanished. In such a way, the loving couple has finally reunited.
Looking for an inspiring idea for a paper on Odyssey? Take a look at our Odyssey Essay Topic Ideas & Examples to find the perfect one!
