Book XXI · Episode 4 of 6

Odysseus Requests the Bow

Eurymachus fails, Odysseus asks to try

Scenes

1. Eurymachus Fails, Feast Deferred — Eurymachus fails, Antinoüs defers contest
   • Turns bow by fire, sighs bitterly
   • Shame is about strength, not losing bride
   • Antinoüs calls the day sacred to Apollo
   • Proposes contest after goat sacrifice
2. Odysseus Asks to Try — Odysseus asks to test bow
   • Heralds pour water as wine circles hall
   • Addresses Eurymachus and Antinoüs directly
   • Wonders if his old strength remains
   • Or if beggary has worn it away
3. Antinoüs Mocks the Beggar — Antinoüs threatens to ship him to Echetus
   • Suitors fear the stranger might succeed
   • Antinoüs calls him a wine-addled vagabond
   • Says he should be grateful to listen
   • Recalls Eurytion’s ruin among the Lapithae
4. Penelope Defends the Stranger — Penelope rebukes Antinoüs, promises gifts
   • Scolds Antinoüs for abusing a guest
   • Won’t marry him even if he succeeds
   • Eurymachus fears shame, not losing her
   • Says plunderers earn no true honor
   • Offers garments, sword, javelin, safe passage