Deception with Disguise

Disguises in The Odyssey are very prevalent. Different gods, specifically Athena, use them to speak their mind while keeping their true identity hidden. The gods shield themselves in an attempt to change the fate of a mortal whether for good or bad. They do this without being seen, as not to start a commotion. Athena visits Princess Nausicaa and moves, “to the girl’s bed and spoke, in face and form like the shipman Dymas’ daughter, a girl the princess age, and dearest to her heart” (6:25-26). Athena then persuades her to get up and wash her clothes; saying she is neglecting her duty as a woman who is nearing the age of marriage where she will be required to live up to expectations as a princess and wife. As Athena devises this plan she goes back to Odysseus whom she safely leads to the Phaeacians’ land after being captive on Calypso’s island, Ogygia. This ultimately results in Nausicaa getting Odysseus to the palace and getting him shelter, food to eat, and a place to rest, in effect saving Odysseus’ life. Also, when reaching the Phaeacians’ city Athena, disguised as a little girl leads Odysseus to the King Alcinous’ palace. Without Athena’s disguises Odysseus would have never survived his trial of suffering.

Looking at disguises in another sense, Athena interferes with Odysseus’ fate in such a manner as to deceive Poseidon so incredibly, that he did not even know that Odysseus is receiving Athena’s help. Unfortunately, Poseidon discovers that some gods were intervening with Odysseus’ fate. He reacted in anger that his plans of delaying Odysseus have been altered and was outraged. He became furious and thought, “the gods have changed their minds about Odysseus…” (5:315-316). However, he was not discouraged because he declared that he would, “give that man his swamping fill of trouble!” (5:320). Disguises are described as flexible in The Odyssey as a successful alternative in changing human history. At the same time, gods, especially Poseidon, are not intimidated when finding out other gods were using disguises to help mortals.