Book XVIII of twenty-four · A Stranger in His Hall
Irus falls, Penelope draws gifts
Disguised as a beggar, Odysseus defeats the blustering Irus in a staged brawl, winning the suitors’ amusement and a feast. Prompted by Athena, Penelope appears radiantly beautiful, rebukes Telemachus, recalls Odysseus’ parting words, and extracts gifts from the suitors. That night Melantho and Eurymachus mock Odysseus, and a hurled footstool nearly starts a riot before Telemachus and Amphinomus restore calm.
Argument, 1871 Odysseus insulted by the beggar Irus —Amusement of the suitors, who encourage the quarrel —Victory of Odysseus in the combat with Irus —Manoeuvre of Penelope to obtain presents from the suitors, and its success —Odysseus insulted by Eurymachus —His reply —The cupbearer struck down by a footstool flung at Odysseus by Eurymachus.