Examples Of Ancient Greek Hospitality In The Odyssey

240 Words1 Pages
Lexus Thomas
Mrs. Linda Comm
Honors English 10
Date: 14 December 2022
Homer’s Hospitality Homer’s The Odyssey shows the theme and portrayal of ancient Greek hospitality customs. It was customary to invite any guest or stranger into one's home and give them food, water and anything else they would need. Homer shows the reader two ends of this tradition. In book five, Odysseus has been staying on Calypso’s Island and Hermes, messenger of the gods, comes to talk to Calypso. The text states, “Calypso invites Hermes to her table for food and drink…She reluctantly obeys, agreeing to offer Odysseus her advice about how to get home.” (1208) This example shows the “proper” way of tending to a guest. Calypso gives Hermes food, water and obeys to