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How does the Odyssey end?

Published in Odyssey Ending 2 mins read

The Odyssey concludes with Odysseus re-establishing his rightful place as king of Ithaca and peace being restored after years of turmoil.

Upon his return to Ithaca, Odysseus, with the aid of his son Telemachus and loyal servants, confronts and defeats the persistent suitors who had been vying for Penelope's hand and consuming his household's wealth. This decisive victory marks the end of the immediate threat to his home and family.

Key Events at the Odyssey's Climax

The final phase of The Odyssey is characterized by a series of reunions and a pivotal intervention that secures lasting peace.

Here's a breakdown of the concluding events:

  • The Revelation to Penelope: After dispatching the suitors, Odysseus finally reveals his true identity to his wife, Penelope. Their reunion is a deeply emotional moment, solidified by Penelope's test of Odysseus's knowledge of their unique marriage bed, a secret only they shared. This confirms his identity beyond doubt and restores their bond.
  • Reunion with Laertes: The day after his reunion with Penelope, Odysseus and Telemachus journey to the countryside to visit Odysseus's grieving father, Laertes. Their meeting brings solace to the aged king, who had been living in sorrow over his son's long absence.
  • The Impending Conflict: However, the story is not quite over. The fathers and relatives of the slain suitors gather, enraged by the slaughter of their sons. They prepare to launch an attack against Odysseus and his household, seeking revenge for the bloodshed.
  • Divine Intervention for Peace: Just as this final conflict is about to erupt and further violence seems inevitable, the goddess Athena intervenes. Descending from Olympus, she mediates between the two factions, establishing a lasting peace in Ithaca. This divine action prevents further bloodshed and ensures stability for Odysseus's reign.

This resolution ensures Odysseus's kingdom is secure and that the cycle of violence, often a consequence of epic conflicts, is broken, allowing for a future of peace and order under his rule.

For more details on the epic journey and its themes, you can explore comprehensive resources on Homer's The Odyssey.