The Disloyal Servants' Punishment

The fate of the servants who betrayed Odysseus, including Melanthius, Melantho, and the maids.

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Melanthius's Treachery

The Goatherd's Betrayal Aiding the Suitors Melanthius brings weapons to the suitors during the battle, helping them arm themselves. Captured Odysseus's men capture him and tie him up. Punishment They cut off his nose, ears, hands, and feet, and leave him to die.

Melantho's Insolence

The Maid's Disloyalty Mocking Odysseus Melantho, who is in love with Eurymachus, insults the disguised Odysseus. Her Relationship with Suitors She has been consorting with the suitors, betraying Penelope. Punishment After the slaughter, she is among the maids hanged by Telemachus.

The Hanging of the Maids

The Maids' Execution Identification Euryclea identifies twelve maids who have been disloyal. The Hanging Telemachus hangs them in the courtyard. They die a shameful death. Justice Served The punishment serves as a warning and restores order to the household.

During the slaughter

Before the slaughter

After the slaughter