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How Argus Got its Name
"The bond between Argus and Ulysses symbolizes the trust and loyalty inherent in the bond between people and animals and thus gives the Argus Institute its name."
The tale of Argus, Ulysses' dog in "Homer's Odyssey," is the
story of a dog's devotion, trust in his master, the power of hope and
the endurance of love.
As a young man, the Greek king Ulysses is called to war with the Trojans.
Leaving his kingdom of Ithaca, he promises to return as quickly as possible
to his wife Penelope, young son Telemachus, and his beloved dog Argus.
The war is long, the journey home treacherous, and 20 years passes before
Ulysses returns to Ithaca. Shortly before he arrives home, Ulysses disguises
himself as a beggar. To appear as the long-lost king, who all believe
dead, would bring danger to his family.
Arriving at his estate, Ulysses comes upon a white dog spent with age
who he recognizes as his beloved Argus. Despite a 20-year separation and
his master's disguise, Argus immediately recognizes Ulysses.
Upon hearing Ulysses' voice, Argus weakly lifts his head, cocks his ears
and struggles to rise. Ulysses bends down to cradle his faithful companion's
muzzle in his hands, renewing a bond that spanned 20 years.
"My dear Argus," he whispers, tears in his eyes. The ever-faithful
Argus, his patience and loyalty rewarded, his bond with Ulysses restored,
dies in peace.
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