The Odyssey by Homer | Book 22 Summary and Analysis

[0:08]In Book 22, the epic battle climax finally happens. Odysseus removes his rags revealing his true identity, says a prayer to Apollo and shoots an arrow right through Antinous's throat. The suitors try to reason with him, offering repayment, but Odysseus tells them what he is about to do, and then he and his team set about to doing it. A vicious, thrilling slaughter, filled with blood and gore. Now, it should be noted that Odysseus doesn't completely take pleasure in all of this.He sees this as the will of the gods. Athena reappears as mentor. She knows that Telemachus and Odysseus have to fight their own battle here, but she helps protect them along the way, fulfilling his prophecy of reuniting with his family with a little help from the gods. It's also worth noting that Odysseus's growth and development as a character comes through in his decision to kill Antinous first. He sees him as the biggest threat and from a military standpoint, it makes the most sense to eliminate him first. He goes back to doing what he does best, a leader and commander, filled with strength and courage and valor. While on the same token, he's waited all this time to get here and we can see how his restraint and withholding has benefited him when the stakes were on the line the most for his family. Most importantly of all, is mentioning that Odysseus's denial of repayment by the suitors is symbolic of the ancient Greeks' view of justice. It's about honor, not money, and only revenge can even the scales.