The Odyssey Summary:Book 21
Book twenty-one begins with Athena prompting Penelope to prepare to issue the archery contest to the suitors. Meanwhile, Homer gives us the history of Odysseus’ bow. On his first diplomatic mission, a young Prince Odysseus receives the massive bow from Iphitos. (It had belonged to Iphitos’ father, Eurytos.) Iphitos is killed by Herakles “before one friend could play host to the other” (35). Odysseus did not take the bow with him to Troy because of its sentimental value.
After Penelope issues the contest, Telemakos sets up the axes for the game. He is able to string the bow on his fourth attempt, but a glance from his father (still in disguise) makes him leave the bow unstrung for the suitors. (Homer notes that Telemakos is able to set up the game and string the bow despite never having seen either done before.) Eurymakhos and Antinoos arrange for the other suitors to ‘play’ first because they fear they will be unable to string the bow. The whole day passes and none of the suitors are able to accomplish their goal. Eurymakhos attempts to string the bow, but is unable to master the task. Then he and Antinoos announce that the contest would continue tomorrow afternoon. (They plan to continue warming and oiling the bow to better their chances.)
Meanwhile, Odysseus has conspired with Eumaios and Philoitios. Odysseus reveals his identity to the slaves by exposing the scar on his thigh. He then instructs Eumaios to deliver the bow to him during the contest despite the suitors’ objections and to make sure the women are locked in their rooms (during the bloodshed.) Philoitios is to make sure the courtyard gates are bolted. When the suitors object, Penelope chastises them before Telemakos ultimately stands up to them and insists the beggar be allowed to compete. Odysseus strings the bow with one try and sends the first arrow through all of the arrow heads. The book ends with Odyesseus taunting the suitors, speaking of “amusements” to come later. Telemakos arms himself (with a sword and spear) and stands in front of his father.