Women in the Odyssey can be characterized as merely an object or a stepping stone for Odysseus to return to Ithaca. However, Odysseus's wife, Penelope contributes much more to the protagonist's character. Penelope is her own individual. Unlike common women in Ancient Greece, she is not defined by a man. Additionally, unfortunate circumstances have led Penelope to have a more doubtful and pessimistic view of life. Lastly, she possesses a keen sense of intelligence the homecoming or “Nostos” portion of The Odyssey, Homer tells the tale of Odysseus’ journey arriving at Ithaca. This section presents the protagonist not only with the struggle to survive, but re-establish himself as the leader he used to be. “Nostos” also means reuniting with his
