In the book The Odyssey by Homer, Telemachus shows a growth in character in the first four books. In the beginning, Telemachus is timid and unable to take control of his own household. Telemachus is extremely respectful and hospitable towards his guests. Although it is clear he is being taken advantage of by his mother’s suitors, he fails to do anything about it. “he, too, was sitting there unhappy among the suitors, a boy, daydreaming” (B. 1 143-145). Telemachus sits idly by while the suitors cause chaos and unhappiness in his house. This demonstrates his lack of confidence in his own power. After his change in mindset due to Athena’s visit, Telemachus gains a newfound confidence and takes charge of his life. Telemachus attains a need to find his father after an informative visit from Athena in the form of Mentes. In order to begin a quest in search of his father, Telemachus is instructed to first get rid of all the suitors. It takes him an immense amount of courage to take charge of the situation, but he is determined to find Odysseus. Telemachus gathers the men and expresses his frustration with them at last. “My house is being plundered: is this a courtesy? Where is your indignation? Where is your shame?” (B. 2 68-69). Telemachus finally addresses the true nature of the interruptive and rude lifestyle of the many suitors. He is able to overcome his previously timid attitude and get a handle on the situation. Telemachus starts off the story as a cowardly young boy and transforms himself into a confident young man for the sake of his father and the well being of his mother.
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When reflecting upon Telemachus standing up to the suitors and slowly taking back what rightfully belonged to his family, you see him mature with confidence and courage like his father. He is able to boss around his mother with such confidence it reminds her of her great husband Odysseus. Also with Athena’s help Telemachus is able to achieve what everyone thought was impossible for a young man like him. Her wise influence helps him figure out his role at the palace. “I hold the reins of power in this house,” (28) Telemachus says boldly to his mother in attempt to prove his maturity. This little surge of energy was given to him by his guardian Athena goddess of wisdom and war. She disguised herself as a wise old man then gives Telemachus advice that will help him deal with the destruction of his father’s palace. In this passage lines 13-16 “you suitors who plague my mother, you, you insolent overweening… for this evening let us dine and take our pleasure no more shouting now,”(13-16) with ellipsis’s show that Telemachus was emotionally aware and knew what to do at certain times. He is becoming more self aware like his father, which shows he is maturing in his heart and his mind. Also lines like “All of you destroyed in my house while I go scot-free myself!” (27-28) that have the italicized words put an emphasis on the subject. Showing the suitors he means business when it comes to his family. This shows maturity and confidence he gains with the help of Athena, another thing that shows he’s just like his father.With his goals all set Telemachus takes Athena’s advice to heart and becomes his fathers’ son. He’s new attitude and confidence are shocking everyone, “Astonished she withdrew to her room” (6) this talks about telemachus showing his superior to his mother yet surprising her. And this new found confidence he steps up to the suitors, “Amazed that the prince could speak with so much daring,” (30). He surprises the suitors with a…
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