ABSTRACT
In Homer’s Odyssey, Penelope awaits the arrival of Odysseus to reclaim his rightful throne. However, she is surrounded by suitors who have no intention of giving up their quest to woo her, hoping to become kings themselves. They have moved into the palace in Ithaca, eating, drinking, and waiting. Penelope does not know whether Odysseus is coming back. She can only hope and wait. But her role is not strictly that of a submissive spouse/widow. She gives hope to suitors by telling them she will make a decision who to marry once she finishes weaving the shroud of Laertes. She weaves it during the day and unravels it at night, creating a sense of equilibrium and stability. She does not say no to suitors but she also does not intend to share her riches with them. Her role is characterized by ambiguity and indeterminacy. She plays both sides, so to speak, to gain time until something happens; in that case Odysseus comes back.
