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Prince Telemachus is an early example of a coming-of-age story. As the epic opens, Telemachus, approximately 21 years old is on the brink of manhood, uncertain and insecure in his potential power, and in grave danger from the suitors who would prefer to see him dead. Athena plays a critical role in developing Telemachus as a man and is the surrogate father for him to become such. Their relationship throughout The Odyssey is extremely beneficial to Telemachus' growth as a man.
Athena is first introduced to Telemachus as a stranger who calls upon his door. At a divine council on Mount Olympus, Athena pleads with her father, Zeus, to take pity on Odysseus and allow him to return home. She suggests that Zeus dispatch Hermes to liberate Odysseus from Calypso while Athena visits Ithaca to advise Telemachus. Athena arrives disguised as Mentor, an old friend of Odysseus and counsels Telemachus, thus beginning the motivation toward manhood. She predicts that his father will return and......

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Approximate Word Count: 725
Approximate Pages: 3 (250 words per double-spaced page)

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