In Robert Fagles’ translation of The Odyssey, Polyphemus, a cyclops, denies Odysseus hospitality, or xenia, because of his rebellious attitude and arrogance towards Zeus and the gods. After accessing Polyphemus’ cave, Odysseus and his crew members kindly ask for xenia, meaning hospitality in the greek culture. Angered by Odysseus’ request, Polyphemus selfishly kills two of Odysseus’ men, then turns around and arrogantly falls asleep. “With his hands towards my men and snatching two at once, rapping them on the ground he knocked them dead like pups… But once the Cyclops had stuffed his enormous gut with human flesh…he slept in his cave” (9.325-335). The cyclop’s sleep gave the crew reprieve if only for a second. Polyphemus disregarded xenia