What does the life and death of the dog Argos show theme of?

The life and death of Argos in Homer’s "The Odyssey" illustrates themes of loyalty, neglect, and the passage of time. Argos, Odysseus's faithful dog, waits for his master's return for twenty years, symbolizing unwavering loyalty. His eventual death upon seeing Odysseus highlights the sorrow of lost time and the impact of neglect, serving as a poignant reminder of the bonds that endure despite the hardships of life. Ultimately, Argos’s fate underscores the emotional weight of loyalty and the consequences of abandonment.