In Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey," 108 suitors have taken over the household of Odysseus, who is away fighting in the Trojan War. The suitors are made up of 52 from Dulichium, 24 from Same, 20 from Zacynthus, and 12 from Ithaca. Their purpose is to win the hand of Penelope, Odysseus' wife, while he is absent.
These suitors, who are primarily noblemen, are depicted as wasteful, arrogant, and disrespectful. They live in Odysseus' palace and consume his resources, challenging his authority and power. The presence of the suitors reflects the cultural values of ancient Greece, where having multiple wives was a common practice for wealthy and powerful men.
The suitors' takeover of Odysseus' home is resolved when he returns disguised as a beggar. With the aid of Telemachus and faithful servants, Odysseus reclaims his palace and defeats the suitors in a violent confrontation. This victory displays his bravery and cunning, embodying the Greek ideal of heroism.
In summary, the 108 suitors in the Odyssey serve as a significant conflict in the poem. Their presence in Odysseus' household represents a challenge to his power and authority, which is eventually restored through his bravery and cunning.