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The Correct And Gracious Xenia In Homer's The Odyssey

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The Odyssey portrays many themes depicting universal lessons used even in modern times. However, one theme all books throughout the story encompass, is the use of correct and gracious xenia. Xenia is the basic, fundamental principle of hospitality and manners which is held highly above all other values during The Odyssey. Despite resistant feelings to host strangers traveling through a city, it is a requirement enforced from the fear of the gods. Odysseus is shown good and bad xenia numerous times throughout his journey, which ultimately reflects his relationship with each host. Xenia is an act of giving and receiving and those who demonstrate correct xenia are expected to receive the same treatment with the protection of the gods. Occasionally,

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