Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is already making headlines for more than just its star studded cast. The upcoming epic is set to become the first commercial film shot entirely with IMAX cameras. Based on Homer’s timeless Greek epic, the film brings several legendary characters to life where each play a crucial role in Odysseus’ long journey home after the Trojan War.
One of the most important among them is Athena, played by Zendaya in The Odyssey.
Who Is Athena In Greek Mythology?
Athena is the Greek goddess of wisdom, strategy and warfare. She is known for using intelligence and careful planning instead of relying only on strength.
In Homer’s The Odyssey, Athena becomes Odysseus’ biggest supporter. She believes in his cleverness and stands by him throughout his long and difficult journey back to Ithaca.
Athena Never Stops Fighting For Odysseus
Athena does much more than simply guide Odysseus. Among all the gods, she is his strongest supporter and repeatedly speaks to Zeus. She asks him to help the King of Ithaca return home after years of hardship.
Whenever Odysseus finds himself in danger, Athena steps in to help. Her constant support plays a major role in helping Odysseus overcome countless obstacles and eventually reunite with Penelope, Telemachus and reclaim his kingdom.
She Also Guides Telemachus
Athena’s support is not limited to Odysseus. She also keeps a close watch on his son, Telemachus, who grows up believing his father may never return.
To help him, Athena disguises herself as trusted friends, including an elderly man named Mentor. Through these meetings, she encourages Telemachus to leave Ithaca and search for news about his father.
Athena Helps Reclaim Ithaca
After years of wandering, Odysseus finally reaches Ithaca but Athena knows his troubles are not over. Before he enters his palace, she disguises him as an ordinary beggar so that no one recognises him.
This allows Odysseus to secretly observe the suitors who have taken over his home and are trying to force Queen Penelope into marriage. With Athena’s guidance, he is able to reclaim his kingdom alongside Telemachus.
Zendaya Joins Christopher Nolan’s Star-Studded Cast
Zendaya steps into the role of Athena in Christopher Nolan’s adaptation where she joins an ensemble cast led by Matt Damon as Odysseus, Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope.
The film also stars Robert Pattinson as Antinous, Charlize Theron as Calypso, Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy, Jon Bernthal as Menelaus and Benny Safdie as Agamemnon. The supporting cast includes Samantha Morton as Circe, Himesh Patel as Eurylochus, Elliot Page as Sinon and Bill Irwin as the Cyclops Polyphemus.
The Odyssey is scheduled to release on July 17 in India.
