Some observations on Penelope

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to outline an interpretation of the scene of the Odyssey where Penelope shows herself to her suitors and gains some gifts from them (18.158-303). I concentrate myself basically on three points: the problem of Penelope’s motivation, the reasons for her exclusion of the plan of revenge, and the dramatic consequences that come up from the state of ignorance generated by this exclusion. Finally, I make some suggestions about the issue of the dissolution of the household as result of the Trojan War.