In Book Eight, Odysseus continually refuses to take part in the games that his new hosts, the Phaeacians, are holding. Broadsea and Laodamas, two Phaeacian princes, begin to tease and bully Odysseus. Initially the teasing appears to not be meant in a mean spirited way, but after Laodamas tries to get Odysseus to take part in the competition, Broadsea starts to mock Odysseus cruelly. Angered, Odysseus takes a discus and throws it farther than anyone else in the competition.
Athena, disguised as a random Phaeacian man, applauds Odysseus' efforts and this actually serves to assuage Odysseus' anger. In a better mood now, Odysseus offers to take on anyone who wants to challenge him, with the exception of Laodamus, since he doesn't want to insult his host or his host's friends. Athena's brief appearance reminds readers (and listeners) that the goddess is still looking out for Odysseus and, true to form, that she is pleased whenever he takes matters into his own hands. This type of "wait and see" behavior is repeated when Odysseus finally takes on the suitors at the end of the text. Athena refuses to involve herself in the final battle until Odysseus proves himself.
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