The island of Ithaca symbolizes home. There Odysseus can share his life with his beloved wife and son, enjoy the wealth that he has earned, eat the food of his youth, and even sleep in the bed that he built. Ithaca symbolizes the end of the journey, the goal of the mythic trek. Nevertheless, it is not gained without a fight.
Odysseus must initially enter his own home in disguise. This is necessary because his home has been invaded by the enemy: the suitors. Being the military leader that he is, Odysseus first gathers pertinent information. He then plans the time and place of his attack, doing what he can to limit the enemy's weapons while procuring his own. His son and two loyal herdsmen stand by him, and Athena intervenes only enough to encourage victory so long as Odysseus fights well. The reward is that Odysseus resumes his proper position as king of his homeland, Ithaca.
