Telemachus facts for kids
Telemachus (pronounced Teh-LEM-uh-kus) is an important character in Greek mythology. He is known as the son of the famous hero Odysseus, who was the king of Ithaca, and his wife, Penelope. Telemachus grew up facing a big challenge: his father had been away for many years after the Trojan War, and many people believed he was dead.
While Odysseus was gone, many powerful men, called "suitors," moved into his palace. They wanted to marry Penelope and take over Odysseus's kingdom. Telemachus was still young and struggled to deal with these rude guests.
A Goddess's Help
One day, the wise goddess Athena appeared to Telemachus. She was disguised as an old friend named Mentor. Athena saw how much Telemachus was suffering and wanted to help him. She gave him important advice.
Athena told Telemachus that he needed to find out if his father was still alive. If Odysseus was indeed alive, Telemachus could then bravely stand up to the suitors and make them leave. But if his father was truly dead, he would have to accept that and allow his mother to choose a new husband from the suitors.
The Search for His Father
Following Athena's advice, Telemachus decided to go on a journey. He gathered a small group and set sail to visit other kings and heroes who had fought alongside Odysseus in the Trojan War. He hoped to find clues about his father's fate.
Telemachus visited wise kings like Nestor in Pylos and Menelaus in Sparta. They told him stories about Odysseus's bravery and struggles. Even though he heard many tales, Telemachus still couldn't find clear proof that his father was alive. He began to believe that Odysseus was truly gone forever.
Odysseus Returns Home
Back in Ithaca, the suitors continued to cause trouble. Telemachus returned home, still unsure about his father. However, unknown to everyone, Odysseus had finally made it back to Ithaca. He arrived disguised as an old beggar.
Odysseus slowly revealed himself to Telemachus first. Together, they planned how to get rid of the suitors. Penelope, tired of the suitors' demands, announced a competition. She said she would marry the man who could string Odysseus's old bow and shoot an arrow perfectly through twelve axe-heads.
None of the suitors could even string the bow. Then, the disguised Odysseus stepped forward. To everyone's surprise, he easily strung the bow and shot the arrow perfectly. This proved his true identity. With Telemachus's help, Odysseus fought and defeated all the suitors, finally bringing peace back to his home and family.
Images for kids
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Telemachus departing from Nestor, painting by Henry Howard (1769–1847)
See also
In Spanish: Telémaco para niños
