Summary

In Chapter VII, " The Scar," Penelope describes her marital ceremonies in a way she would not have been able to when she was alive. Anxious, Penelope did not eat at the feast, fearing the new husband’s rumored sexual aggression. She feigned calm by recalling her mother’s words about the Naiad tradition of embodying water to escape fear. Still admiring Helen, no one paid Penelope any attention. Even Odysseus seemed disappointed he had not won her instead.

Later in the bedroom, Odysseus proved surprisingly considerate. He told Penelope to fake a scream for the listening maids, so they would believe they had had sex and leave them alone. Penelope obeyed. They then sat and talked before consummating the marriage. Afterwards, Odysseus told stories about his family and past, a habit he would continue for years to come. He explained the...