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What happens in Books 21 & 22 of The Odyssey?
In Book 21, one by one the suitors fail to shoot the arrow until Odysseus takes up the bow and accomplishes the feat. In Book 22, the suitors realize Odysseus’s true identity after he shoots Antinous, and a blood bath promptly ensues.
Read our Summary & Analysis of Book 21 & 22 of The Odyssey. (3-minute read)
What important motif from The Odyssey is explored in Books 21 & 22?
The Disguise motif appears in Books 21 & 22 to great effect—not just in terms of Odysseus’s beggar disguise, which enables him to make a triumphant return and take the suitors by surprise, but also because Athena watches and ultimately participates in the battle disguised as Mentor.
Read about Disguise as a key Motif in The Odyssey. (1-minute read)
What key themes from The Odyssey are developed in Books 21 & 22?
The theme of Divine Justice culminates in Book 22 as Odysseus finally gets his revenge on the suitors, decisively killing them all.
Read about the key Themes of The Odyssey. (3-minute read)
Why does Athena initially hold back in the battle against the suitors?
Athena joins the battle disguised as Mentor, but at first she merely watches and encourages Odysseus to level the full force of his power against them. She does this to test his strength and to allow him the honor of taking back the palace on his own.
