Eurycleia

Question 1

How is Eurycleia a good woman?

Answer 1

She cares for Telemachus and Odysseus as if they are her children, alongside the oikos

Question 2

Give 2 ways we know Eurycleia cares for Telemachus and Odysseus like a mother

Answer 2

1) Eurycleia weeps when Telemachus tells her of journey
- Telemachus beckons her into the store-room to gather wine and grains

2) First to recognise Odysseus when he’s still disguised as a beggar
- The scar of a white tusk boar on his thigh after his first rite of passage kill
- “Your looks and your face and your very feet”

Question 3

Give 3 ways we know Eurycleia is reliable and loyal

Answer 3

1) Eurycleia ”swore by all Gods that she would keep his secret”
- News about Telemachus’ travels to Penelope or anyone else

2) Also swears to “keep as silent as a block of stone or iron.”
- About Odysseus’ identity

3) Identifies Disloyal Maids
- Those who had slept with Suitors or been rude to herself or Penelope
- “I will… pick out the disloyal from the innocent.”