The Odyssey: Telemachus and His Development
             The Odyssey is a great epic novel in which many characters are developed. The most significant development that occurs is the development of Telemachus. Telemachus is a very complex character that Homer develops from the beginning and to end of the epic poem. In the beginning, Telemachus is a shadow of his father; in the end he is just as courageous as Odysseys, his absent father. Many factors influence Telemachus as he matures into a man.
             Telemachus's name means "Far from Battle." Telemachus is given this name because he is born the day his father, Odysseus, departs for the Trojan War. However, the name proves to be ironic because the epic ends with Telemachus taking part in two battles.
             Not having a father figure severely affects Telemachus. He is a timid and shy boy that is greatly pampered by his mother, Penelope. Telemachus finds it difficult to live up to his father's legendary reputation. For example, when the suitors start eating away at his estate, Telemachus displays a serious lack of motivation. Although Telemachus knows that the suitors are doing wrong, he does not do anything about it. Telemachus foolishly hopes that his father, Odysseus, will come home and clean up the mess for which the suitors are to blame. Telemachus knows his father would handle the situation with the suitors in a much more aggressive manner. Odysseus will kill all of them for being treacherous beings, while Telemachus does nothing but whine. Homer says how Telemachus's "noble father might come back out of the blue, drive the suitors headlong from the house, and so reign his royal honours, and reign over his once more."
             It is not until Telemachus receives divine attention that he begins to mature. Athene, the Goddess of the flashing eyes, appears and encourages and advises the young and immature Telemachus on how to handle his affairs wit...