Xenia Is the Real Theme of the Odyssey

“Xenia is the real theme of the Odyssey.” To what extent do you agree with this statement? In your answer consider the part played by the idea of 'guest friendship' throughout the poem.

In the odyssey xenia is not the main theme throughout the poem, However it is one of many. The main themes are women, father/son relationship, xenia and nostalgia.

Xenia is the relationship between a guest and a host. It was fundamental in the ancient Greek society. The main actions of xenia are:

1. The guest waits at the door. The guest does not go in without invitation.

2. Someone sees the guest and takes responsibility for them as a host or hostess.

3. The guest is taken by the hand, personal contact is important.

4. The guest is led in and much wait to be led in.

5. The guest is seated comfortably and must in turn show respect for their hosts family and property.

6. The guest is offered and consumes food. The guest should not refuse what is offered no matter how humble.

7. The guest is asked who he is and other questions about their identity to which they should reply truthfully.

As the guest leaves they should:

1. Give the guest gifts which should b appropriate to the wealth if the host.

2. The host makes a libation to the gods and a prayer for the safe homecoming of the guest.

Throughout the odyssey xenia is shown by Telemachus, Penelope, Nestor and the Suitors. These are representation of both good and bad xenia.

The suitors, as guest, are a good representation of bad xenia. They have outstayed their welcome and are asked continuously by Telemachus to leave whom they ignore. They also abuse Telemachus’ hospitality and take unreasonable advantage of it. They show disrespect to both Telemachus and Penelope, and also Odysseus as they are abusing his home and his property. They also plot to kill Telemachus which is one of the most betraying things they could do as a guest to a host. The only rule of xenia the...