The Odyssey Book 19 Summary: The Contest and the Foreshadowing

TLDRIn Book 19 of The Odyssey, Odysseus and Telemachus hide their weapons as they plan for an imminent attack. Odysseus disguises himself and meets with Penelope, who doesn't recognize him. Yorick Leah, Odysseus's childhood nurse, identifies him by a scar. Penelope reveals her plans for a bow and arrow contest to choose her suitor, unaware that Odysseus will be returning soon. Athena encourages Odysseus, promising victory over the suitors and their families. A seer warns of a dark vision, but the suitors disregard it. Telemachus confronts the suitors, showing increased courage. Only one suitor, Feminis, believes the vision of an eagle and a dove, symbolizing the coming slaughter.

Key insights

Odysseus and Telemachus are preparing for an attack as they hide their weapons and plan in secret.

👑Penelope reveals her plan for a bow and arrow contest to choose her suitor, unaware that Odysseus will return soon.

🦅A seer warns the suitors of a dark vision, but they dismiss it and continue their revelry.

💪Telemachus shows increased courage by scolding the suitors for their behavior.

🕊️Only one suitor, Feminis, believes the vision of an eagle and a dove, symbolizing the coming slaughter.

Q&A

What is the significance of Odysseus and Telemachus hiding their weapons?

Odysseus and Telemachus hide their weapons as they plan for a surprise attack on the suitors who have taken over their home.

How does Penelope reveal her plans for a contest?

Penelope informs Odysseus, disguised as a beggar, that she will be holding a bow and arrow contest to choose her suitor.

Who warns the suitors about a dark vision?

Theoclymenus, a seer, warns the suitors about a dark vision involving blood, mist, and ghosts.

How does Telemachus show courage in Book 19?

Telemachus scolds the suitors for their unruly behavior, demonstrating his increased confidence and bravery.

Who believes the vision of an eagle and a dove?

Only one suitor, Feminis, believes the vision of an eagle with a dove in its talons, symbolizing the impending slaughter of the suitors.

Timestamped Summary

00:01Book 19 begins with the suitors retiring for the evening, while Odysseus and Telemachus hide their weapons.

00:19Odysseus meets with Penelope, who doesn't recognize him, but Yorick Leah, his childhood nurse, identifies him by a scar.

00:49Penelope reveals her plan for a bow and arrow contest to choose her suitor, unaware of Odysseus's impending return.

01:18Athena encourages Odysseus, promising victory over the suitors and their families.

02:02A seer warns the suitors of a dark vision, but they dismiss it and continue their revelry.

02:22Telemachus confronts the suitors, scolding them for their behavior and showing increased courage.

02:34Only one suitor, Feminis, believes the vision of an eagle with a dove in its talons, symbolizing the impending slaughter.