Love is a powerful emotion, and love is the force that drives Odysseus to return to Ithaca and, more important, Penelope. No matter what obstacles are put in his way, he remains steadfast in his desire to go home to her. Those obstacles are created by Poseidon, whom Odysseus has offended, and they are removed by Athena, who is Odyssues's patron goddess. I'm not sure it is correct to say that Athena and Penelope compete for power over him; they are both interested in seeing him regain his throne. Also, Athena is the patron of the "womanly arts," which is what Penelope is doing when she weaves. Athena also encourages their son to cause as much trouble as possible with the men who are vying to marry Penelope, keeping her free until Odysseus returns. So you might say that Athena and Penelope share influence over Odysseus.
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