Anagnorisis – Recognition of Odysseus in Odyssey
(Lombardo translation line numbers)
D.B. Levine Feb. 10, 2021
Phaeacians recognize Odysseus 9.15 — He tells them.
Polyphemus recognizes Odysseus 9.160 (Outis “Noman”), 498 — False name (which saves O.); Real name (which curses O.)
Circe recognizes Odysseus 10.350 — Remembers Hermes’ prediction.
[Odysseus recognizes Ithaca 13.355] — Athena points out landmarks, dispels mist
Telemachus recognizes Odysseus 16.178 — identifies himself, with Athena’s help. T. is skeptical.
Argus recognizes Odysseus 17.317 — Animal-human bonding.
Eurycleia recognizes Odysseus 19.393 — Scar. Sworn to secrecy.
Swineherd Eumaeus and Cowherd Philoitios recognize Odysseus 21.195 —reveals himself to ask for their help.
Suitors recognize Odysseus 22.38 — Even after O. killed Antinoos, they think he’ a beggar. He identifies himself.
Penelope recognizes Odysseus 23.115 — “Signs” that only we know. Dramatic postponement.
Laertes recognizes Odysseus 24. 337 — “Signs”: Scar, trees, vines. Skeptical at first.
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