Question

Why is the final chapter called "Peace" in the context of the book?

Summarize the visit with Laertes in 'The Odyssey'.

Answer 1

The final chapter is called 'Peace' to denote the end of conflict and the return of stability after Odysseus reunites with his father Laertes and Athena commands peace, stopping further violence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The final chapter of The Odyssey is called "Peace" because it signifies the end of Odysseus's long struggle and the restoration of order and tranquility to his household and realm following the defeat of the suitors.

The chapter encapsulates the resolution of the epic's central conflict and the harmony that follows Odysseus's long journey home. Within the narrative, Odysseus does meet Laertes, his father, in an episodic visit

. Having vanquished the suitors who beset his kingdom and reclaimed his place, Odysseus narrates his travels to Laertes, who has been grieving his son's absence.

Together they face one final confrontation with the suitors' kin, but it's resolved with Athena's intervention, who commands peace among them, thus ending the cycle of violence and achieving the stable state implied by the chapter's title.

Answer 2

The final chapter called "Peace" reflects the end of Odysseus' struggles and the restoration of order in Ithaca. Odysseus reunites with his father Laertes, proving his identity and reestablishing familial bonds, leading to a peaceful resolution after years of conflict.

Step-by-step explanation:

The final chapter of Homer's epic is called "Peace" because it marks the end of the long struggles and the restoration of order after Odysseus' return to Ithaca. Odysseus, after his long absence, overcomes various challenges orchestrated by Poseidon and returns home to find his household overrun by suitors courting his wife, Penelope. He devises a plan to reveal his identity and ultimately slaughters the suitors with the help of his son, Telemachus, and a few loyal servants, bringing peace back to his kingdom.

During the visit with Laertes, Odysseus' father, there is a moment of recognition and emotional reunion. Odysseus proves his identity to his skeptical father by showing him a scar on his foot and recounting detailed knowledge of their orchard that only the true Odysseus would know. This meeting solidifies Odysseus' reclaiming of his family ties and heritage, helping establish a sense of peace and normalcy after years of turmoil and uncertainty. The concept of "Peace" in the final chapter therefore represents the resolution of conflict and the restoration of familial and societal order.