... in, and subsequently Eurycleia recognizes Odysseus by a scar on his foot. Eurycleia is the first to find out about Odysseus' return, and notifies Penelope when Odysseus tells her that the time is right. Homer has Eurycleia find out first because she is the epitome of loyalty - she has been with Odysseus' family for years, and is obviously someone whom Odysseus can trust with his secret. Odysseus? trusting Eurycleia is the first example of a test the reader sees in book 23. Eurycleia proves her loyalty to Odysseus through her secrecy. When Eurycleia tells Penelope of Odysseus? return, Penelope does not believe her, so there is a clear difference in trust between Odysseus and Eurycleia and Penelope and Eurycleia. Penelope sleeps through Odysseus? slaughter of the suitors, which, had she been awake, would be strong evidence that he is her husband. Homer purposely has Penelope sleep through this ...

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