Justice & Revenge
There are many instances of justice and revenge, and explorations of the difference between them, within
the Odyssey.
The Suitors’ Death: just, because it breaks the rules of xenia – but he does not spare Leodes and
Amphinomous
Deaths of Melanthius and the Maids: cruel – more like revenge than justice
The Gods and Revenge: Zeus tells Poseidon that, ‘as for mankind, if anyone in the pride of his
power treats you with disrespect, you have all the future in which to take your revenge’
Critics:
‘Her purpose is to restore Odysseus to the throne, end the threat of vendetta, and replace anarchy
with justice in Ithaca.’ – Clarke
‘Whatever one may think of the severity of Odysseus’ revenge, no Greek would have argued that he
did not have the right to take it.’ – Peter Jones
‘Their deaths are deserved, as are those of the household of Odysseus.’ – Bowra
‘Justice is one of the great themes of the Odyssey. The controversial scene in Hades shows justice at
work among the dead.’ – Peter Jones
‘If Telemachus’ killing of the maids is justice, we’re at least invited to feel a pang of sympathy for its
victims.’ - Jones
There are many instances of justice and revenge, and explorations of the difference between them, within
the Odyssey.
The Suitors’ Death: just, because it breaks the rules of xenia – but he does not spare Leodes and
Amphinomous
Deaths of Melanthius and the Maids: cruel – more like revenge than justice
The Gods and Revenge: Zeus tells Poseidon that, ‘as for mankind, if anyone in the pride of his
power treats you with disrespect, you have all the future in which to take your revenge’
Critics:
‘Her purpose is to restore Odysseus to the throne, end the threat of vendetta, and replace anarchy
with justice in Ithaca.’ – Clarke
‘Whatever one may think of the severity of Odysseus’ revenge, no Greek would have argued that he
did not have the right to take it.’ – Peter Jones
‘Their deaths are deserved, as are those of the household of Odysseus.’ – Bowra
‘Justice is one of the great themes of the Odyssey. The controversial scene in Hades shows justice at
work among the dead.’ – Peter Jones
‘If Telemachus’ killing of the maids is justice, we’re at least invited to feel a pang of sympathy for its
victims.’ - Jones
