The first conflict is Odysseus being held captive on Calypso's island. Hermes however was sent from Zeus “to send him off with all good speed”(5.126). When Odysseus is finally released he faces another conflict: Poseidon. On his way back from Ethiopia, he saw Odysseus and was outraged; he wasn’t satisfied till he gave “[Odysseus] his swamping fill of trouble” by sending a huge storm that nearly drowns him(5.320). Ino and Athena helped him out during the storm and were able to get him safely on the island. This reveals that with just a bit of help from the gods and his perseverance, his conflicts were solved. This further shows that the help from the gods is really beneficial; the gods are on his side and really believe that his fate is making
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CHARACTERIZATION
Athena has helped Odysseus throughout his journey so it is no surprise that she is “harboring kindness for the hero”(7.16). As Odysseus entered the city, “the bright-eyed goddess herself came up to greet him there” and guided him to the king’s palace(7.21). Athena seems to always be on his side and help him out with all sorts of favors in all sorts of situations. Her actions highlight that she is forthcoming and beneficent helping Odysseus even when in disguise; she favors Odysseus and will do all she can so Odysseus can get back home.
14. THEME
The major theme of xenia is shown by Alcinous when he meets Odysseus. He is very hospitable and suggests that “[Odysseus] could wed [his] daughter and [he’d] give [him] a house and great wealth–if [he] chose to stay”(7.358-360). Alcinous takes pride in being a good host and goes out of the way to make sure his guests have nothing bad to say about him. Although Odysseus turned down Alcinous’ offer, the king is making sure Odysseus’ wish is granted and will send him off “while [his] people sail [him] on through calm and gentle tides till [he reaches his] land and house”(7.366-367). This exemplifies the importance of a host being courteous to their guests and how much it was appreciated. This also plays an important part in the plot because if Alcinous didn’t care for his guests enough, Odysseus would’ve had to find another way to get
CHARACTERIZATION
Athena has helped Odysseus throughout his journey so it is no surprise that she is “harboring kindness for the hero”(7.16). As Odysseus entered the city, “the bright-eyed goddess herself came up to greet him there” and guided him to the king’s palace(7.21). Athena seems to always be on his side and help him out with all sorts of favors in all sorts of situations. Her actions highlight that she is forthcoming and beneficent helping Odysseus even when in disguise; she favors Odysseus and will do all she can so Odysseus can get back home.
14. THEME
The major theme of xenia is shown by Alcinous when he meets Odysseus. He is very hospitable and suggests that “[Odysseus] could wed [his] daughter and [he’d] give [him] a house and great wealth–if [he] chose to stay”(7.358-360). Alcinous takes pride in being a good host and goes out of the way to make sure his guests have nothing bad to say about him. Although Odysseus turned down Alcinous’ offer, the king is making sure Odysseus’ wish is granted and will send him off “while [his] people sail [him] on through calm and gentle tides till [he reaches his] land and house”(7.366-367). This exemplifies the importance of a host being courteous to their guests and how much it was appreciated. This also plays an important part in the plot because if Alcinous didn’t care for his guests enough, Odysseus would’ve had to find another way to get