Telemachus’ Journey to Maturation
...ut a father. Because of this, he feels it is his duty to protect his mother. Unfortunately, Telemachus lacks the resolve to expel the suitors and he doesn't completely think his actions through. On the other hand, Penelope does not want Telemachus to grow up at all. She prevents his transition to adolescence as long as possible, because when he does take that monumental step, she will have to remarry, something she does not want to do. She plans on waiting for Odysseus, and she will do anything to prolong what seems to be the inevitable. It is not until Athena comes before him and sets him off on his journey to manhood that Telemachus is enters adolescence. In the beginning of the novel, Telemachus is eighteen and still a child. When Telemachus starts becoming rebellious and exhibits independent feelings, it is evident that he is actually becoming a teenager. When Odysseus returns home, he seeks refuge in the swineherd’s home. Telemachus does the same. Both choose the swineherd’s home out of wisdom and patience. Here, in the swineherd’s home, we are able to see Telemachus’ growth as a man of morality, particularly like his father. Before Telemachus knows he is conversing with his father, “the beggar”, (Odysseus dressed as a beggar), offers Telemachus the seat in the room, but Telemachus refuses. He does not know the man is his father, and thinks he is of higher class than the man standing bef...