Hospitality In The Odyssey Analysis

The concept of hospitality is clearly evident in society to this day. From the royal treatment of kings and queens to the warm welcomes shown by families, the Greek culture was no exception to this idea. As demonstrated in The Odyssey, a sense of respect was presented not only towards the Greek gods but also to the mortals themselves. Characters such as Odysseus rely on the hospitality of others for food, shelter, guidance and protection. Without it, many characters wouldn't have survived as they were often stranded in distant lands. Homer develops the idea of hospitality in The Odyssey by employing several examples in the text such as respect to the gods and goddesses, as well as respect from the people of Phaeacia. The actions of these characters

Upon Odysseus’s landing, he is met with boundless warmth. This is first exemplified in Odysseus’s initial encounter upon landing ashore. After explaining his predicament to Princess Nausicaa, she is quick to provide her assistance, telling her maidens to “...give our new guest some food and drink, and take him into the river… to bathe.” (6.224-225). Princess Nausicaa then advises Odysseus to appeal to her mother for assistance in his homecoming. The Princess’s courtesy provides an example of the hospitality that exists throughout Odysseus’s interactions with the Phaeacians. When Odysseus asserts his plea for help, King Alcinous and Queen Arete offer “...to take him safely, comfortably, well and happily, with speed, to his own country, distant though it may lie.” (7.208-210). By granting Odysseus’s request, King Alcinous and Queen Arete demonstrate selflessness, a chief pillar of Greek culture. Later that night, as the Phaeacians hold a feast in honor of Poseidon, King Alcinous and the twelve princes offer Odysseus gifts to take on his return home (8.421-426). This kind deed truly represents the Phaeacians’ acts of

It showed others respect, kindness, and allowed them to feel welcome. Homer demonstrates this value through the actions of his characters. The characters’ actions exemplify the meaning of kindness during that time in Ancient Greek culture. By using examples such as courtesy to the gods and goddesses and examples that represent the generosity of the Phaeacians, Homer successfully incorporates the theme of hospitality in his epic