Why does Odysseus hesitate to accept help?

Answer 1

Odysseus makes up a story about himself being from Crete. He spins a story of meeting Odysseus before the war, and hearing about him after the war from the Thesprotians, where he is still alive, but preparing to journey home. He further describes himself 20 years ago to such detail that Penelope has no doubt that he has actually met Odysseus.

Answer 2

Odysseus hesitates to accept help because he is proud and values his independence. He believes that he must overcome challenges on his own in order to prove his worthiness and resourcefulness. Additionally, he may fear that accepting help will make him indebted to others or diminish his own strength and reputation.

Answer 3

There are multiple reasons for this. He would like to test Penelope's faithfulness. He also would like to appear back before her once he has taken care of business (eg, killing all of her suitors). Odysseus also wanted information about what was going on in the kingdom. Further, if he revealed his disguise, not only would he have to prove his identity, but she might accidentally reveal the secret to others.

Answer 4

Athena helped desguise Odysseus while he's thinking of a plan to get back at his wif Penelope