Celebration of Scholars
#10: Maturity In The Odyssey
Name:
Andrew Marron
Major: Data Science
Hometown: Downers Grove
Faculty Sponsor: Neil Scharnick
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project
Abstract
This paper was written with the intent to analyze the character arc of Telemachos from Homer's Odyssey. Telemachos undergoes many challenging tasks for which he is often underprepared, and his maturity in dealing with these tasks is varying and often underwhelming. A major part of understanding his character is determining if, by the end of the epic, he has reached a sufficient level of maturity. His maturity can be measured through his self-confidence, initiative, and competence, and sees growth across all of these elements. This paper argues that Telemachos does not achieve full maturity by the end of The Odyssey, but is positioned well to achieve this in the future. It does so by investigating the many key moments of Telemachos on his journey and how he reacts when forced into uncomfortable positions.Submit date: March 24, 2024, 11:53 a.m.