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Examples Of Xenia In The Odyssey

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Examples Of Xenia In The Odyssey
Throughout Homer’s The Odyssey, the characters often use the ancient Greek ideal of xenia for their own benefit. This exemplar of hospitality is a cornerstone of ancient Greek religion and culture. The rites of suppliants are even protected by their most powerful god, Zeus. However, people would often try to leverage their host with this social obligation. Even Odysseus is guilty of this underhanded tactic. For example, he unsuccessfully tries to convince Polyphemus to leave him and his crew alone after stealing from him; Odysseus says to Polyphemus “Respect the gods, my friend. We’re suppliants-at your mercy! Zeus of the Strangers guards all guests and suppliants: strangers are sacred- Zeus will avenge their rites”(220). This quote exhibits
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