The Eumaeus reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Apr-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Eumaeus

In Greek mythology, Eumaeus, or Eumaios, was Odysseus' swineherd before he left for the Trojan War.

In the Odyssey, Eumaeus was the first person Odysseus met after his return to Ithaca. Although he didn't recognize his old master in disguise, Eumaeus still treated him well, giving him food and shelter. Eumaeus also welcomed Odysseus' son Telemachus when he returned from his voyage to Pylos and Sparta, and Telemachus also did not recognize his father at first. During Odysseus' absence Eumaeus had acted as a father to Telemachus.

Despite being a swineherd, Eumaeus was fairly wealthy and could afford to buy his own slave. However, the suitors of Penelope had abused him, taking his best pigs for their own feasts and leaving him with only piglets to eat. Later, when Eumaeus finally recognized Odysseus, he helped Odysseus kill the suitors.

Interestingly, Eumaeus is the only character in the Odyssey who is referred to in the second person, δι Ευμαιη, "you, Eumaeus." He is also frequently called the "noble swineherd."

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