Dolius Explained

In Greek mythology, more precisely in the epic tradition recounted in Homer's Odyssey, Dolius or Dolios (Greek, Ancient (to 1453);: Δολίος|Dolíos) was a slave of Penelope whom she had received from her father Icarius on occasion of her marriage to Odysseus. He served as a gardener.^[1]

Family

Dolius had at least seven sons, including Melanthius,^[2] and at least one daughter, Melantho.^[3] His wife was a slave from Sicily, whose name is not given.^[4]

Mythology

After Odysseus's identity had finally been revealed, Dolius heartily welcomed Odysseus in his home, expressing great joy to see his master alive and well.^[5] Later, he and his six sons^[6] were among the loyal servants who joined Odysseus to stand against the relatives of the slain suitors.^[7]

See also

• 10989 Dolios, Jupiter trojan asteroid
• List of Greek mythological figures

References

• Homer, The Odyssey with an English Translation by A.T. Murray, PH.D. in two volumes. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann, Ltd. 1919. . Online version at the Perseus Digital Library. Greek text available from the same website.

Notes and References

1. [Homer]
2. Homer, Odyssey 22.196
3. Homer, Odyssey 18.290
4. Homer, Odyssey 24.389
5. Homer, Odyssey 24.396 ff.
6. With the obvious exception of the disloyal Melanthius, who had been mutilated and killed (Homer, Odyssey 22.474)
7. Homer, Odyssey 24.496–497