Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Frank Grabowski and Dr. Alex Petkas (host of the Cost of Glory) for a rich discussion of Odyssey Books 13 and 14.

Check out all our resources on the great books!

Check out the Cost of Glory!

Check our the Porch and Altar, Dr. Grabowski's Substack.

Odysseus finally reaches Ithaca—sleeping peacefully through the voyage as the Phaeacians carry him ashore—only to awaken uncertain and disguised by Athena as a beggar. The conversation explores his strategic plotting with the goddess, the symbolic Cave of the Nymphs (including a fascinating Neoplatonic reading from Porphyry), the poignant encounter with the loyal swineherd Eumaeus, and Odysseus’s layered “lies” that reveal deep truths about his character.

The guests delve into themes of homecoming, the restoration of patriarchal order, xenia (guest-friendship), internal moral growth, and the slowing narrative pace as Homer shifts focus from external adventures to the subtle work of reclaiming one’s house.

This episode offers fresh, layered insights perfect for both first-time readers and Odyssey veterans, blending literary analysis, philosophy, and practical wisdom on loyalty, cunning, and self-mastery.

Whether you’re drawn to the theological depth of the cave, the psychological realism of Odysseus’ deceptions, or the timeless lessons on rebuilding order amid chaos, Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Grabowski, and Dr. Petkas make these often-overlooked books come alive with warmth, humor, and profound appreciation. Tune in for an engaging, accessible conversation that will deepen your love for Homer and leave you eager for the next leg of the journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Odyssey and Guests

08:38 The Slow Pace of the Odyssey

13:15 Themes of Homecoming and Restoration

18:07 The Significance of Sleep and Rebirth

23:22 Divine Intervention and the Phaeacians

28:24 Odysseus' Identity and the Role of Athena

36:26 The Art of Deception: Odysseus and Athena's Intrigue

37:19 The Mist of Disguise: Odysseus' Identity Crisis

39:46 Inner Odyssey: The Journey of Self-Discovery

42:34 The Goddess of Trickery: Athena's Role in Odysseus' Return

44:39 The Cave of the Nymphs: Symbolism and Allegory

51:03 Depositing Treasures: Spiritual Growth and Cooperation with the Divine

59:13 The Loyal Swineherd: Eumaeus and the Theme of Hospitality

01:02:39 The Encounter with the Dogs

01:03:44 Loyalty and the Commoner's Perspective

01:05:11 The Swineherd's Knowledge and Loyalty

01:06:16 Odysseus's Tests and Coalition Building

01:07:59 Reflections on War and Leadership

01:11:35 Odysseus's Crafty Storytelling

01:14:58 The Nature of Lies and Truth

01:18:12 Piety and Character in the Odyssey

01:22:06 The Art of Storytelling and Requests

01:25:20 Final Thoughts and Future Encounters

Be sure to check out our website for more resources on the great books!