Why is it so important for Telemachus to know whether or not his father is still alive?

For Telemachus, knowing whether his father, Odysseus, is still alive is crucial for several reasons. It shapes his identity and sense of purpose, as he grApples with the absence of a father figure and the legacy of his heroic lineage. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding Odysseus's fate fuels Telemachus's quest for maturity and independence, driving him to seek answers and assert his own agency in reclaiming his family's honor. This journey ultimately serves as a catalyst for his growth and the restoration of order in Ithaca.