Homer's Odyssey: Penelope and OdysseusHomer has revealed the inner thoughts of the characters to add to the suspense that builds in books 19 and 20 of the Odyssey. Some wonder whether Odysseus was recognized by Penelope and whether this added to the intensity of the story. Joseph Russo mentioned this topic in "Interview and Aftermath: Dream, Fantasy, and Intuition in Odyssey 19 and 20." The lies Odysseus told also added to the excitement of the Odyssey. Russo believed that Penelope, in her subconscious, recognized Ulysses disguised as a beggar. For example, in book 19, Penelope revealed her innermost thoughts to Odysseus, who was disguised as a beggar. Russo suggested that the beggar subconsciously reminded Penelope of Ulysses when she invited him into her room to talk and confide in him her dreams (14). But there is a different way to look at this part of the book. In class, Thury pointed out not only the outward signs of Penelope's encouragement of him, but also gave reasons to believe that she did not think Odysseus was alive. By telling Odysseus about her dreams Penelope showed faith in him, but by planning the Bowing competition, Penelope showed that she believed her husband would never return. Russo claims it was just a defense mechanism. If he believed that Odysseus was alive, he would have lowered his guard and did not want to risk another disappointment (Russo 15). Russo and Thury agree that due to the tension between husband and wife, there is a great deal of excitement and stress in Ulysses' home after his return. Odysseus' lies also add to the excitement. These lies were all tied to the truth about Odysseus (Thury) and stirred up the people they were told to. For example, Odysseus lied to Eumaios the swineherd. He told him that he was a pirate who had lost his crew in the storm and had heard news of Odysseus (14.356). The fact that he claimed that Odysseus was alive must have given the swineherd hope of his master's return, even though he denied it (14.405). Another person Odysseus lied to was Penelope. Accordingly Homer says that he weeps, "as he sat listening ... his checks were wet with these tears which he shed for his lord" (19.220-226). Even though she says she doesn't believe him (19.289), Penelope seems excited thinking about Odysseus, so much so that she slips up when she tells Eurykleia to bathe her master (19.