what is the importance of telemachus' journey in the odyssey?

very early on in the odyssey we are introduced to telemachus, Athena pushes him to go on a journey to find out what happened to his father. but does telemachus' journey really play a role in the return of his father or the downfall of the suitors? well not really, telemachus' journey is really just a path to "manhood". before he went on this journey he was basically a push over, the suitors had no respect towards him. so when Athena arrived she knew that in order for odysseus to return home and slay the suitors telemachus would have to be prepared. with this new experience telemachus had gained by the time his father returned he was well prepared for what was to come.

In Book 19, why do you think Odysseus is so harsh on Eurycleia after she recognized him?

Why was Odysseus so harsh to Eurycleia when she recognizes him?

Overal I think there is an ultimate goal in Odysseus' mind all throughout the odyssey, to return home to his wife and son as well as slay the suitors. When Eurycleia discovers that he has returned he is scared that his plan may be ruined if Penelope finds out. This fear was what most likely drove him to be so harsh and grab her throat. You would also have to look at the situation, with Penelope so close he did not know what would happen. Oddyseus' anger may not have been justified but in the heat of the moment it seems that is just whaT he was compelled to do. However, This story takes place so long ago that maybe his treatment would not have been unusual.