Athena: Guardian Angel

             Although Homer writes Odysseus as the focal point of his novel, The Odyssey, the role Athene plays in Odysseus" life is just as essential to the success of his journey as Odysseus is, himself. Athene's involvement in Odysseus" travels is arguably even more important and necessary to the epic journey than his own talents and abilities. The sole reason Odysseus succeeds in his travels rests upon the graciousness and the help of the bright-eyed goddess, Athene. Were it not for Athene, Odysseus would have never of been able to make it back to his wife, Penelope, in their kingdom, Ithaca. For this very reason, we regard Athene as a vital asset and character to this story.
             Not only is Athene the goddess of wisdom and battle, but she also doubles as a guardian to Odysseus during the many trials he faces throughout his travels. During Odysseus" voyage, we see Athene continually protect and direct the "nimble-witted" Odysseus through many complicated and dangerous predicaments. With this, we see a further development of Athene's character, as well as a more complex insight into Odysseus and his homecoming.
             Because Athene is kindhearted, she takes it upon herself to aide Odysseus and his son, Telemachus, along their separate journeys, in order to better their lives and help regain their kingdom, as well as reunite themselves as a family. She does this by instructing them and guiding them throughout many misadventures that alone, they both would have fallen subject to failure, resulting in their own downfall. Athene is seen continually coming to the rescue of Odysseus, no matter what trouble he might get himself into. A perfect example of Athene's kindness and helpful guidance towards Odysseus is greatly seen while Poseidon, the Earthshaker, is tossing him about in the ocean. Athene decides to intervene in the storm and helps Odysseus with the strong winds by " bidding them calm down and go to sleep.