THOMAS RALPH SPENCE (BRITISH, 1855-1903)

'But cease from this woeful song which ever harrows the heart in my breast, for upon me above all women has come a sorrow not to be forgotten' (The Odyssey, Book 1).
The present work depicts a scene from the second Homeric epic. At the request of Penelope’s suitors, who have taken up residence in Odysseus’ home in pursuit of her, the poet Phemius entertains with a telling of the Nostoi (The Returns). The story recounts the homecoming of Greek heroes after the end of the Trojan War, notably excluding Odysseus, who is still on his decade-long journey home. Penelope hears his song and, painfully reminded of her husband’s absence, entreats him to sing of other tales: 'Phemius, many other things thou knowest to charm mortals, deeds of men and gods which minstrels make famous. Sing them one of these, as thou sittest here, and let them drink their wine in silence.'
When Odysseus does return, Phemius laments that he was outnumbered by the audience of unmarried men and was forced to perform against his will. Telemachus, Odysseus’ son, confirms his innocence and Phemius’ life is spared – the suitors, as well as the disloyal maidservants who encouraged their profligate behavior, are all killed.