How has Penelope been able to avoid marriage for so long?

Penelope has been able to avoid marriage for so long by cleverly stalling her suitors with the ruse of weaving a tapestry. She promises to choose a husband once she finishes the weaving, but secretly unravels her work each night to delay the decision. Additionally, her loyalty to Odysseus and her belief in his eventual return provide her with the emotional strength to resist the advances of the suitors. This combination of cunning and devotion allows her to maintain her independence until Odysseus returns.