One of the most significant, distinctive examples of the violation of xenia is Odysseus’ encounter with Polyphemus. After Polyphemus is an unsatisfactory host, Odysseus blinds him, which angers his father, who makes Odysseus’ journey home difficult (9. 427, 428). Another example of bad xenia would be when the suitors impose on Odysseus’ home and attempt to take Penelope’s hand in marriage (22. 20). Hospitality is emphasized greatly throughout the book, when guests dishonor xenia, there are often consequences. When Polyphemus is not a good host, he ends up blind; when suitors cross Odysseus vying for Penelope, they end up dead (9.27, 428, 22. 20). It is apparent that those who do not practice good xenia in a positive guest-host relationship must face the
One of the most significant, distinctive examples of the violation of xenia is Odysseus’ encounter with Polyphemus. After Polyphemus is an unsatisfactory host, Odysseus blinds him, which angers his father, who makes Odysseus’ journey home difficult (9. 427, 428). Another example of bad xenia would be when the suitors impose on Odysseus’ home and attempt to take Penelope’s hand in marriage (22. 20). Hospitality is emphasized greatly throughout the book, when guests dishonor xenia, there are often consequences. When Polyphemus is not a good host, he ends up blind; when suitors cross Odysseus vying for Penelope, they end up dead (9.27, 428, 22. 20). It is apparent that those who do not practice good xenia in a positive guest-host relationship must face the