Origin of Mentoring1 The Greek poet Homer describes Odysseus, king of Ithaca, as having a loyal friend and advisor by the name of Mentor. While Odysseus was away fighting in the Trojan War, Mentor became a trusted teacher, coach, counselor, and protector of Odysseus’ son Telemachus. Thus, the word “mentor” used today derives from Homer and reflects a process where the mentor guides and protects...
