The Contributions of Homer's Book XXIV

Greek literature, in particular, Homer’s Odyssey, remains a masterpiece because of its structure. Additionally, an abundance of wisdom pours forth from its pages. Aristophanes and Aristarchus, two Greek critics, claimed that Homer’s Odyssey ended with the lines, “Rejoicing in each other, they returned to their bed, the old familiar place they loved so well” (XXIII: 337-338). While, at first glance, Book XXIV appears unnecessary, entirely omitting it leaves Homer’s work unfinished.

Book XXIV features a wonderful study of the human condition. The initial encounter between Achilles and Agamemnon appears of little significance, but the overall concept lends importance to the book. Since The Odyssey meditates on the nature of civilization, it corresponds that Homer concludes his epic with a lesson addressing mankind’s inherent qualities. At the beginning of the book, Homer’s character, Achilles, accurately brings to light that life does not happen as planned and, in turn, this becomes a downfall of man.

First, Homer calls attention to the human thought process. Achilles tells Agamemnon that “we thought” a different fate awaited Agamemnon because of his circumstances (XXIV: 25-31). Homer also identifies the tendency to dwell on a different aftermath. He illustrates this claiming that “if only” Agamemnon died differently, the possibility of glory and fame awaited his son (XXIV: 32-35). Finally, Homer concludes his lesson proclaiming man’s way of thinking as incorrect and “not so”. He charges Agamemnon “fated” to whatever destiny befell him (XXIV: 36).

Homer also has his character, Amphimedon, highlight another human trait: the inclination to blame others for the outcome of actions, even when knowingly committing a wrongdoing. Homer illustrates this behavior as he writes how Amphimedon charges Penelope with the fault of his death because of her indecision, even after he admits that he made her finish her weaving “against her will” and “forced her” (XXIV: 161). Amphimedon also attributes his demise to Odysseus because of trickery. He condemns Odysseus for disguising himself (XXIV: 171-177), although Amphimedon openly admits he attacked Odysseus (XXIV: 178). In trading these stories (XXIV: 1-226), Homer imparts his knowledge on life, responsibility, and accountability.

Since writing about the nature of civilization, Homer needs to feature the importance of the family relationship. As a result, the epic necessitates Odysseus’ visit to his father to let Laertes know of his well-being.