Book 16: Father and Son This reunion scene between Telemachus and Odysseus is presented in an unexpected fashion. Odysseus does not reveal himself at once. Instead he watches and listens to Telemachus, and he is not impressed with this rude and disheartened boy! It is only later in the scene that Telemachus earns his father's respect and trust, but the reunion would not have taken place at all unless Athena had intervened and insisted upon Odysseus revealing his identity! When Telemachus steps through the swineherd's doorway, Odysseus maintains his silence while Eumaeus warmly greets the prince. As Telemachus talks with Eumaeus, Odysseus listens while Telemachus expresses his doubts about Penelope's fidelity and his own chances of overcoming the suitors. Odysseus finally loses his control and breaks in, rebuking the boy and nearly exposing his identity.  Athena herself must intervene. She insists upon Odysseus revealing himself to his son. Even then, Telemachus refuses to believe the truth! He seeks proof- testing his father with questions. The prince proves he is Odysseus' son through his skepticism. He holds his own and earns a place by his father's side in the plan to destroy the suitors. Even at this point, Telemachus is unafraid to express his skepticism about his father's plan, and the scene ends with the two still bickering- a truly realistic depiction of a father/son relationship. 16.5 the dogs nuzzle Telemachus 16.13 Odysseus' First Impressions of Telemachus - Eumaeus' warm welcome - Lighthearted rebuke for not visiting more often: has he fallen in with the suitors? - Telemachus says that he has come by to gather information: has Penelope really given in and chosen a new husband? He expresses himself with typical pessimism. - Telemachus is initially polite with the stranger and then rudely asks who he is. - Eumaeus jumps in before the beggar has an opportunity to get rolling on another yarn. He asks Telemachus to extend his protection to his new friend, and Telemachus guffaws in response! How can he help anybody! 16.100 Odysseus rebukes Telemachus - He is so angry he nearly reveals his identity. Then he quickly reverts to disguise and boasts about how he would kill all the suitors by himself if he were Odysseus. 16.145 Telemachus shows leadership skills - Telemachus asks Eumaeus to go to the palace to tell Penelope that he has returned home safe and sound. Eumaeus tells him of Laertes' distress since Telemachus has left on the journey. Telemachus tells Eumaeus to go directly to the palace and to send Eurykleia to Laertes. 16.175 Athena's Entrance - the dogs cower and whimper - She transforms Odysseus to his true self. 16.200 The Reunion - Telemachus first thinks he is a god. - Even though Telemachus embraces his father, he is still not completely convinced and seeks proof of Odysseus identity. - Odysseus outlines his plans for taking the palace, and Telemachus remains skeptical: "How on earth can two men fight so many and so strong?" - Odysseus insists that the boy have faith in the gods. - Teleamchus immediately begins to amend Odysseus' plans. And Homer leaves them there bickering away…