Eumaeus

The famous and faithful swineherd of Odysseus, was a son of Ctesius, king of the island of Syrie; he had been carried away from his father's house by a Phoenician slave, and Phoenician sailors sold him to Laërtes, the father of Odysseus. When Odysseus returns to Ithaca after his long voyage, he was given a hospitable welcome by Eumaeus, eventhough he had not recognized his master. Odysseus later reveals his identity and Eumaeus helps him to gain entrance to Penelope. Eumaeus also helps Odysseus during his fight with Penelope's suitors.

❧