Centro di Ricerca sulle Lingue Franche nella Comunicazione Interculturale e Multimediale. Working Papers

ISSN: 2499-1449
ISBN: 978-88-8305-118-0
DOI: 10.1285/i24991449v2015n1

The core of this study is a formulaic representation of the character of Telemachus in Homer’s Odyssey, illustrated through the analysis of the semantic value of epithets and formulas which refer to concepts of wisdom, bravery, courage, judiciousness, as well as to the sphere of physical beauty and the condition of royalty. The character traits of Telemachus are also examined by highlighting the constant development of his clearcut personality, characterized by a correct fulfillment of the rules of ξενία (the predisposition towards hospitality that emerges very clearly in the reception reserved to Athena in the first book) and a pietas erga deos that prepares him to accept the projects of the Goddess, whose leading role has been observed here in the evolution of Telemachus from adolescence to maturity in search for his father who – as shown by textual evidence – represents an existential reference and an essential model of behavior for Telemachus. The behavioral profile of Telemachus is also outlined with reference to the Homeric civilization as well as to the mode of representation of young people in the Homeric Odyssey.