Homeric Values Flashcards
What is xenia?
The bond of solidarity between a guest and host, an essential code of conduct in the ancient world.
What was the host expected to do?
Provide accomdation and gifts, and the guests to respect the host and offer gifts in return. The guest was invited to tell his story but only when he has finished eating.
How does Calypso offer xenia to Hermes?
She offers him hospitality, letting him dine and refresh himself before he answers Calypso’s questions.
How does Nausicaa offer xenia?
She tells her girls to bathe and feed Odysseus.
How does Circe, although her motives are far from honourable, offer xenia?
She prepared him a meal and drink. She happily entertains Odysseus and his men for a year.
What else is offering xenia?
Offering a guest a bath.
What does Odysseus do to the Cyclopes?
Reminds him of his obligations to offer the xenia.
Who points out his lack of xenia to Alcinous?
An elder.
What is xenia extended to?
Giving the traveller what he needs to continue his journey.
What are civilised people?
People who follow the rules of xenia.
Who are civilised?
Phaeacians.
Where is a reversal of xenia seen?
Polyphemus’ cave.
How are the Cyclopes barbaric?
They are lawless people who never lift a hand to plant or plough. They don’t have any assemblies for the making of law or established codes.
Who else are barbaric?
Laestrygonians.
Why are Odysseus’ actions to the Cicones civilised?
He needed to feed his men so he took what he needed from the Cicones.
