While Greek myths and Biblical stories appear to be extremely different, the relationship between Athena and Telemachus
(Odyssey) and that between God and Moses (Exodus) are similar in that both Telemachus and Moses were of the chosen family,
were reluctant heroes, and were given specific instructions which required travel. Mainly, these two tales differ in that Athena and
God chose different ways to speak to Telemachus and Moses, respectively. Both Athena and God had a chosen family in which
they demeaned to be their most faithful followers, and therefore, they took the best care of such families. Athena chose Odysseus'
family. She favored Odysseus throughout his life by giving him several gifts. Odysseus was famed to be an excellent warrior and a
truly wise man. Both war and wisdom are Athena's fortes. Odysseus favored Athena with sacrifices, gifts, and prayers. While
Odysseus was sailing and fighting the will of Poseidon, Athena continues to take care of his family. Penelope is said to be one of
the best weavers in all the land. Again, weaving is Athena's forte. Finally, the beginning of the Odyssey focuses on Odysseus' son,
Telemachus. Thus, the goddess of war, wisdom, and weaving favors him. Athena speaks to Telemachus to give him courage and to
instruct him of her wishes. She favors Telemachus by making him handsome and strong. She even reassures him that "the gods
have not marked out your house for such an unsung future" (p. 84). Thus, Athena's favoritism is inherited. God chooses a family in
which his favoritism will passed down through the generations as well. Moses is a descendent from the house of Levi. His forefathers
consist of the much-revered Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He is a Hebrew by blood, but he was raised as an Egyptian. While Moses
does not understand his birthright, and it is several years before he practices his birth religion, God still chooses Mose...