Friends,
We journey into one of the most important sections of the Odyssey, the books in which Odysseus tells his story. Recall that xenia is reciprocal, and Odysseus, having received the hospitality of King Alcinus, now tells his name and narrative. We need to be careful, however, because Odysseus is a master rhetorician, and he tailors his stories to his audience—in other words, he lies. It is very important to note that here Homer allows Odysseus to tell his own story. It is not Homer speaking directly.
These books are worth your time and attention—and the Ascend Book Club is here to help. A few resources:
Ascend is here to help. Articles, podcasts, videos, and more to help you read the Odyssey. If you want to start Book Five on the podcast, start here: Dcn. Garlick, Adam Minihan, and Evan Amato on Book Five.
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Odysseus Tells His Story: Books 9-12
Homer the teacher allows Odysseus to tell his own story. Pay special attention to how Odysseus characterizes his own actions and the actions of his men—and keep in mind his audience and what he wants to impress upon them. One of the most important claims in this passage is Achilles’ self-reflection from Hades. For an in-depth, careful reading of that passage, see Did Achilles Regret His Life of Glory?
Good work! You are halfway through the Odyssey. You have heard Odysseus’ story, and now we turn to Odysseus’ return to Ithaca. Take into consideration what lessons Odysseus has learned in his journey home and give careful watch to how those lessons inform his homecoming. There are many parallels between Odysseus’ return to Ithaca and his episode in Polyphemeus’ cave.
Be sure to consult our 115 Question and Answer Guide to the Odyssey to dig into the lessons Homer has to offer you.
Keep it up.
Dcn. Harrison Garlick lives in rural Oklahoma with his wife and five children. He serves as a deacon at Holy Family Cathedral and as Chancellor & General Counsel for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tulsa. Follow him on X at Dcn. Garlick or Ascend.