The Importance Of Xenia In Homer's Odyssey

In the epic poem “The Odyssey” by Homer, the protagonist Odysseus is sent on a long journey after the Trojan War. He and his crew sail through many islands, meeting many different characters along the way. Odysseus is an arrogant character, which leads to an immense amount of trouble. During these troubled times, Odysseus learns lessons that help him on his journey.

One lesson learned from “The Odyssey” is the importance of Xenia. Xenia is the laws of hospitality, so when one enters a place or home of another, they should be welcomed by the host, but also they must be kind and respectful. In the poem, Odysseus tells Alcinous’ court about how his men disobeyed the laws of Xenia when they were on the island of the Cicones when he says