Chapter Two

Summary

• The protagonist was summoned by the king, his father, and told he would be put forth as a suitor for King Tyndareus' daughter, Helen of Sparta, despite his youth and disinterest.
• Their journey to Sparta was uneventful and upon arrival they found other suitors already present.
• A succession of suitors presented themselves and their gifts to Tyndareus, each boasting of their heritage and wealth.
• The protagonist was forced to present himself, despite being young and insignificant among the crowd of accomplished men. He did not disgrace himself and offered his father's gift, a golden mixing bowl.
• Unexpectedly, Odysseus, who was observing the proceedings, suggested that Helen should choose her own husband. However, before she made her decision, all suitors were required to swear an oath that they would support Helen's choice and defend her new husband against anyone who might try to take her away.
• All suitors, including the protagonist, swore the oath although some did so reluctantly.
• Helen promptly chose Menelaus, the red-haired son of Atreus, causing a mix of surprise, relief, and disappointment among the suitors. No violence ensued due to the sworn oath.
• With the proceedings concluded, the protagonist and his father abruptly returned home. Once at home, the events seemed surreal and distant to the protagonist, as though he didn't participate in them himself.