Why do Telemachus and his mother need Odysseus in The Odyssey?

As a scholar of classical literature, I have a deep appreciation for the intricacies of Homer's "The Odyssey," a narrative that delves into the complexities of heroism, family, and the human condition. The question of why Telemachus and his mother Penelope need Odysseus is multifaceted and rich with thematic significance. It is not merely a matter of ridding their home of the suitors but also a quest for identity, legitimacy, and the restoration of order.
Telemachus, as the son of Odysseus, is at a crucial juncture in his life. He is transitioning from youth to manhood and must find his place in the world. His father's absence has left a void not only in his life but also in the political structure of Ithaca. Telemachus is in need of a mentor and a guide, and his father's return is essential for him to fully embrace his role as a leader and the future king of Ithaca. Without Odysseus, Telemachus lacks the authority and the experience to navigate the treacherous waters of court intrigue and to claim his birthright.
Penelope, Odysseus' wife, is faced with a different set of challenges. Her husband's prolonged absence has left her in a state of social and emotional limbo. The suitors, who have descended upon her home in the hope of marrying her and claiming the throne, represent a threat not just to her personal integrity but also to the stability of the kingdom. Penelope is caught in a web of her own devising, as she employs various strategies, such as the famous web of deceit, to delay her decision and remain faithful to her husband. However, without Odysseus, she cannot maintain this state of suspension indefinitely. His return is necessary for her to be freed from the suitors' unwelcome advances and to restore her dignity and autonomy.
The suitors themselves are a symbol of chaos and disorder. They consume the resources of the household, disrespect the gods, and undermine the social order. Their presence in the house of Odysseus is a direct affront to the hero's honor and a challenge to the legitimacy of his rule. The suitors must be dealt with, and only Odysseus, with his cunning and warrior skills, can effectively eliminate this threat and restore order to his household and kingdom.
Furthermore, the return of Odysseus is not just a physical one; it is also a spiritual and moral homecoming. His journey is a metaphor for the human struggle to find one's way in a world fraught with uncertainty and danger. Odysseus' absence has left a moral vacuum in Ithaca, and his return is a necessary step in re-establishing the values of honor, justice, and respect for the divine.
In conclusion, the need for Odysseus in "The Odyssey" is profound and multilayered. Telemachus and Penelope require his presence to navigate their own personal crises, to restore the social and political order, and to fulfill the promise of their potential. Odysseus' return is a catalyst for transformation, a testament to the enduring power of love and loyalty, and a reminder of the importance of home and family in the human experience.

Telemachus and his mother need Odysseus so that they can rid their house of the suitors that eat their food and drink their wine and waste their goods. Without Odysseus Telemachus' mother Penelope cannot get rid of them without choosing a suitor.