Hospitality's Consequences

Hospitality plays a big role in the Odyssey. It helps Odysseus and Telemachus in their journey numerous times. However, hospitality, and the rules that come with it, has not always been pleasing to everyone, specifically the suitors. The rules of hospitality are very important and must be followed by all mortals, or else they are subject to suffer the wrath of Zeus. When Polyphemus the cyclops was not hospitable to his guest he was blinded and payed a consequence for it (book 9, lines 265-271). The suitor paid the greatest price for their disregard to the rules of hospitality. They would dishonor their host’s house by eating them out of house and home. This did not please Zeus who is the the god of stranger. Eventually the sun set on their party and they felt the consequences for their actions.

Goats and Pigs

1. Explain the differences between the swineherd and the goatherd. What do you think will happen to them?

Eumaeus is Odysseus’ trusted swineherd who takes him when he appears as a beggar. By doing this he shows great hospitality. He does not approve of the suitors and their deeds. Whereas Melanthius, the goatherd, treats Odysseus bad by jeering him like the suitors do. He also has not show hospitality by treating the supposed stranger poorly. It has been shown throughout the book that those who do not show hospitality have bad things happen to them. Therefore, it can be assumed that the swineherd will be spared the wrath of Odysseus and the gods, and will also be held in high esteem. On the other hand, the goatherd will most likely be killed when Odysseus and Telemachus take their revenge on the suitors, will the help of Pallas Athena and stranger loving Zeus.