The Art of Hospitality - The Greeks and the Odyssey Essay

Each culture treats strangers and guests with distinct differences from every other culture. One of the most hospitable cultures was that of the ancient Greeks, exemplified in Homer’s The Odyssey by both gracious hosts and guests. In Greece and The Odyssey, not only was good hospitality etiquette expected, but the added pressure from the conviction that the gods would punish the host if guests were treated without respect (whether they were poor or rich) further compelled excellent manners. The Odyssey illustrates the proper etiquette when dealing with guests. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Whether friend or stranger, when a guest of any sort arrived the host would greet them and offer them food and drink before any further conversation or†¦show more content†¦In the case of the Phaeacians, no one asks Odysseus’ name until it has become increasingly imperative that they have that knowledge; they don’t ask after days of hosting him, even preparing to take him to his home on Ithaca without inquiring his name, â€Å"Farewell, stranger, sir†¦ May the gods grant you safe passage home to see your wife.† (Book 8, 454-457) This gentle hospitality continues, and may have lasted through if not for Odysseus weeping when Demodocus sings, which will bring Alcinous’ asking for his name, â€Å"†¦ Ever since our meal began and the stirring bard/launched his song, our guest has never paused in his tears†¦ Come, tell us the name they call you there at home.† (Book 8, 606-618) Ironically, the Phaeacians ar e ideal to Greek standards of hospitality, yet do not host many guests due to their isolation. 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