Joseph Natoire, Telemachus Listening to Mentor, c. 1725-75
The relationship between Athena and Mentor is a very touching one; as a boy whose father has been absent for most of his life, Telemachus looks for guidance from father-figures throughout the poem.
The relationship was a popular theme in art and literature throughout the enlightenment - a time when people questioned how “good moral character” could best be instilled in young people.
Charles-Joseph Natoire (1700 – 1777) Painted in Paris and Rome. He painted many biblical mythological subjects. He was the director of the French Academy in Rome from 1751–1775.
This painting is in the collection of the Aberdeen Art Gallery.