Loyalty vs. Betrayal among the Household

The conflict between loyal servants like Eumaeus and Philoetius and disloyal ones like Melanthius and Melantho.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Loyal Swineherd

Eumaeus's Faithfulness Sheltering Odysseus Eumaeus welcomes the beggar and treats him kindly. Supporting Telemachus He helps Telemachus and Odysseus plan the revenge. Fighting for Odysseus He fights alongside Odysseus in the battle.

The Disloyal Goatherd

Melanthius's Betrayal Aiding the Suitors Melanthius brings weapons to the suitors, prolonging the fight. Captured and Punished He is caught and brutally mutilated. The Contrast His betrayal contrasts with Eumaeus's loyalty.

The Maids' Choices

The Maids' Loyalty Tested Disloyal Maids Some maids consort with the suitors and mock Penelope. Loyal Maids Others remain faithful. Euryclea is the most loyal. Punishment and Reward The disloyal are hanged; the loyal are spared and rewarded.

Throughout the story

During the battle

Before and after the slaughter