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Homer, Chapter 14 summary

Chapter 14 of 26 · 23 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 14, Ulysses leaves Calypso under Jupiter’s command, survives a shipwreck, and receives help from Nausicaa and her royal parents in Scheria. The Phaeacians offer him passage home, while games and songs bring out his strength and grief, prompting him to reveal his identity.

What happens

  1. Minerva appeals to Jupiter, who sends Mercury to order Calypso to release Ulysses; she helps him prepare his boat.
  2. The sea god wrecks the boat, but Ino’s scarf protects Ulysses until he reaches Scheria and sleeps beneath leaves.
  3. Nausicaa finds Ulysses, provides food and clothes, and directs him toward her parents’ palace.
  4. Minerva conceals his approach, and Alcinous and Arete welcome him, offering lodging and passage home.
  5. Ulysses answers Euryalus’s insult with a great discus throw, receives gifts, and thanks Nausicaa for saving him.
  6. Demodocus sings about Troy and the wooden horse; Ulysses weeps, and Alcinous asks him to identify himself.

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In this chapter

UlyssesMinervaTheme: Hospitality and recognition

What to notice

Ulysses acknowledges Calypso’s advantages but still chooses home. His desire to return directs his actions throughout the unit.

Quick check

What prompts Arete to ask about Ulysses’ earlier encounter with Nausicaa?

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