Thanks for starting the discussion off Issybird! That saved me some effort typing, as I agree with everything that you have said. I am finding The Odyssey a a much easier and enjoyable read than I did The Iliad.

While I liked the first four books, things really begin to pick up for me once the center of action became Odysseus in books five and six. It was a nice setup though for what I presume to be the finale in the first four chapters. Women are certainly not imbued with many rights in the Odyssey either. Telemachus would happily solve his problem with suitors for Penelope consuming what he presumes will be his wealth by just sending his mother back to Icarius [Penelope's father], only he fears how Icarius well react.


I like your comment about the strange marriage of Helen and Menelaus and her having no qualms, nor him taking any offense, at her describing her infidelity to their guests. Even including her saying (Sun Surfer will like this):

Athena certainly has a real shine for Odysseus does she not?

A comment on HarryT's warning about spoilers in the Fagles translation introduction. For those who are totally unfamiliar with the story this is a good warning. I did read the introduction first though and found it helpful without detracting from the story. Then I was already familiar with major events from other readings.