Recognition in the Odyssey
A Journey of Nostos The Odyssey by Homer is a complex epic poem about the protagonist, Odysseus, and his circuitous journey home. ... The process of recognition is the central theme of the final section in The Odyssey: determining who is able to identify him and in what manner this occurs. Each recognition scene in the poem is developed through its linkage to the ideals of identity, hospitality, or loyalty. ... The voyages of The Odyssey are the voyages of self-discovery. ... The recognition scene between Eurycleia and Odysseus helps Odysseus reclaim part of this identity. ... Following this recognition scene, the entire tale of Odysseus’ naming and the adventure by which he was scarred is told. This is the first of the recognition sequences by which Odysseus’ identity will be restored. ... The ideal of hospitality played a large role in ancient Greek societies and is clearly evident in The Odyssey. ... But in the crucial moment of recognition, Odysseus’ reunion with his wife, Penelope, is delayed because even the scar, physical proof of who he really is, is not enough to convince her. ... This is the final and most important recognition to take place to complete Odysseus’ identity. ... Through expanding the theme of recognition and closely tying it in with the ideas of hospitality, loyalty and identity, Homer vividly describes Odysseus’ journey of nostoi.