The swineherd, named Eumaeus, is loyal to Telemachus and serves as a trusted friend and ally. Eumaeus aids Telemachus in his journey to find his father, Odysseus, and provides support and counsel throughout the epic poem "The Odyssey." Their relationship is one of mutual respect and loyalty.
In Homer's "The Odyssey," the swineherd Eumaeus is overjoyed and shows great hospitality when Telemachus, Odysseus's son, returns home. He welcomes Telemachus warmly and helps him in his journey to confront the suitors who have taken over his father's palace.
Odysseus questioned the swineherd about the current state of affairs in Ithaca, the loyalty of the citizens, and the treatment of his son, Telemachus.
Eumaeus welcomes Telemachus warmly and expresses joy at his return. He offers hospitality and assistance, recognizing him as the son of his master, Odysseus. Eumaeus is loyal and faithful to the family.
The suitors are planning to ambush and kill Telemachus upon his return in order to secure their chances with Penelope and claim Odysseus's estate for themselves. They see Telemachus as a threat to their plans and want to eliminate him.
Odysseus promises his swineherd, Eumaeus, and Philoetius the cowman each a wife, a grant, and a new house built next to Odysseus' palace. He also says that he will consider both Telemachus's friends and brothers.
eumaeus the swineherd
Telemachus is the son of Odysseus, and Eumaeus is the swineherd of Odysseus.
in a swineherd's hut
Eumaios the swineherd
In Homer's "The Odyssey," the swineherd Eumaeus is overjoyed and shows great hospitality when Telemachus, Odysseus's son, returns home. He welcomes Telemachus warmly and helps him in his journey to confront the suitors who have taken over his father's palace.
The relationship between them is similar to father and son.
While Odysseus was visiting in the garden with his father, Telemachus and the swineherd, Eumaeus, were discussing the situation at home and the ongoing issues with the suitors in their absence. Telemachus was also beginning to learn more about his father's identity and their shared challenges. This moment illustrates the bond between father and son, as well as the loyalty of Eumaeus to Odysseus’s family.
Odysseus questioned the swineherd about the current state of affairs in Ithaca, the loyalty of the citizens, and the treatment of his son, Telemachus.
While Odysseus was in the garden with his father, Telemachus, the neatherd, and the swineherd were tending to their respective livestock. Telemachus was on a journey of self-discovery, seeking news of his father, while the neatherd and swineherd were loyal servants, caring for the cattle and pigs. Their roles highlighted the themes of loyalty and the responsibilities of leadership in Odysseus's absence. This moment underscores the interconnectedness of their lives despite the distance and challenges they faced.
They do not like each other
While Odysseus was in the garden with his father, Telemachus and the swineherd, Eumaeus, were engaged in discussions about Odysseus's fate and the state of their household. Telemachus had just returned from his journey to seek news of his father, and he was likely sharing his experiences and the information he had gathered with Eumaeus. Together, they were also preparing to confront the suitors who had overrun their home in Ithaca.
When Telemachus returns to Ithaca, Eumaeus, the loyal swineherd, is overjoyed to see him. He greets Telemachus warmly, expressing deep affection and relief at his safe return after a long absence. Eumaeus's reaction highlights his loyalty to Telemachus and his enduring hope for Odysseus's return, showcasing the strong bond between them. His heartfelt welcome emphasizes the importance of family and loyalty in the narrative.