PEL Presents (SUB)TEXT: Terminal Wooings in “The Odyssey” (Part 3 of 3) | The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

Intro

In this episode of “The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast,” the hosts continue their discussion on “The Odyssey” by focusing on the theme of deception and testing in the last 12 books of the epic poem. They explore the role of storytelling, the significance of identity and trust, and the challenges of homecoming for Odysseus and his son Telemachus. Join them as they delve into the complexities of these themes and their relevance to the human experience.

Main Takeaways

Deception and Testing in “The Odyssey”

• Odysseus uses his powers of deception more than ever before to avoid rushing home to his wife and family.
• Athena is impressed by Odysseus’ cunning and disguises herself as a shepherd to test him.
• Odysseus tells a different life story every time, but always from Crete.
• Athena compliments Odysseus’ skepticism and informs him that Penelope has always been loyal.
• Odysseus will have to go through a lot of testing to prove his identity, including testing Penelope and sussing out loyal slave women.
• Deception plays a significant role in the last 12 books of the Odyssey, and it’s unclear why it’s necessary.

Telemachus’ Journey and Agamemnon’s Fate

• Telemachus’ journey at the beginning of the story is similar to Odysseus’ journey in that they both go through unnecessary trials.
• The story of Agamemnon’s fate and his son’s revenge is a shadow story that works over the whole Odyssey.

The Art of Storytelling and Testing Trust

• The changing story about his identity that Odysseus tells is interesting, and the embedded stories within them are engaging.
• Athena short-circuits Odysseus’ need to test people by telling him about Penelope’s loyalty and the suitors.
• The role of the gods, particularly Athena, undercuts the realistic aspects of Odysseus’ deviousness.
• Athena didn’t protect Odysseus because she didn’t want to conflict with her father’s brother Poseidon, who was angry at Odysseus for blinding his son.
• Athena shows Odysseus where he is by lifting the mist and revealing Ithaca to him, which is a test of recognition and trustworthiness.

Homecoming, Identity, and Repetition

• The tests in the story are all about recognizing whether someone is who they say they are and whether they are trustworthy.
• Testing trust and identity is a recurring theme in the story.
• The excessive testing can be seen as a way to transition and work through potential trauma.
• Repetition compulsion is integral to the experience of storytelling and can be seen in Odysseus’ need to tell his own story over and over again.
• Reintegration involves sinking into a hot tub rather than doing a cannonball into the deep end.

Summary

Deception and Testing in “The Odyssey”

In the last 12 books of “The Odyssey,” Odysseus employs deception as a means to delay his return home. He tells different life stories, testing the loyalty and discernment of those around him. Athena, disguised as a shepherd, tests Odysseus’ skepticism and reveals Penelope’s unwavering loyalty. The role of deception in the narrative remains ambiguous, raising questions about its necessity and purpose.

Telemachus’ Journey and Agamemnon’s Fate

Telemachus’ journey mirrors Odysseus’ as both characters undergo unnecessary trials. The story of Agamemnon’s fate and his son’s revenge serves as a recurring shadow story throughout “The Odyssey,” adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

The Art of Storytelling and Testing Trust

Odysseus’ ever-changing stories about his identity captivate the audience, with embedded tales within them. Athena intervenes to prevent Odysseus from testing people further by assuring him of Penelope’s loyalty and revealing the suitors’ intentions. The gods’ involvement blurs the line between reality and deception. Athena’s reluctance to protect Odysseus stems from her desire to avoid conflict with Poseidon, who seeks revenge for his blinded son. Athena’s test of recognition and trustworthiness by revealing Ithaca to Odysseus further explores the theme of identity and trust.

Homecoming, Identity, and Repetition

The tests in “The Odyssey” revolve around recognizing true identity and trustworthiness. These tests serve as a way to transition and work through potential trauma. Repetition compulsion is evident in Odysseus’ need to repeatedly tell his own story, reflecting his desire for adventure and distance from home. Reintegration into his family and community involves gradual reacquaintance and testing, as well as addressing the rage towards the suitors.

Conclusion

“The Odyssey” explores the themes of deception, testing, and homecoming through the character of Odysseus. The complex interplay between storytelling, identity, and trust adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. As listeners delve into this epic poem, they are invited to reflect on the human experience of longing for home, the challenges of reintegration, and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of ourselves and the world.