The Odyssey, Book 21 summary
Book 21 of 24 · 16 min to read the book
In Book 21, Penelope offers marriage to whoever can string Ulysses’ bow and shoot through twelve axes, but the suitors cannot string it. Ulysses reveals himself privately to Eumaeus and Philoetius, arranges for the doors and gates to be secured, and completes the test as Telemachus takes arms beside him.
What happens
- Prompted by Minerva, Penelope brings out the bow and announces the marriage contest.
- Telemachus sets up the axes and nearly strings the bow, but Ulysses signals him to stop; the suitors fail.
- Outside, Ulysses proves his identity to Eumaeus and Philoetius with his scar and gives them instructions.
- Antinous proposes postponement, but Ulysses requests a turn; Penelope supports him before Telemachus sends her upstairs.
- Eumaeus delivers the bow, Euryclea closes the women’s quarters, and Philoetius secures the outer gates.
- Ulysses strings the bow and shoots through every axe; Telemachus arms himself and stands beside his father.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of The Odyssey, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
In this book
What to notice
Ulysses entrusts his identity to the two loyal herdsmen. Their recognition lets him organize help inside the household.
Quick check
How does Ulysses prove his identity to Eumaeus and Philoetius?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of The Odyssey, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
