Telemachus

Telemachus occupies a unique position as the son of a legendary father he has never known, growing to manhood under the shadow of his father's absence and his mother's constancy. Though born after Odysseus (Ulysses) departed for Troy, he carries within him the blood and expectations of his royal lineage. As the suitors have proliferated in Ithaca, consuming his estate and pressuring his mother toward remarriage, Telemachus has gradually awakened to his responsibilities as heir and protector.

He possesses an excellent disposition and keen intelligence, blessed by heaven with the capacity to understand the complexities of governance and the ravages being perpetrated upon his family's wealth. Though he chafes at his powerlessness—his mother notes that he now fully comprehends what is happening and is perfectly capable of managing his own affairs—he must contend with the fact that the suitors are numerous, well-connected, and entrenched in his father's household. Telemachus represents the younger generation's hope for restoration of order and honor to Ithaca.