80 likes | 265 Views
Laws of Greek Hospitality. Xenia. Xenia Greek concept of hospitality Generosity & courtesy shown to those who are far from home “guest friendship”. 3 Basic Rules. The respect from host to guest Host must be hospitable Provide guest with food, drink & bath
E N D
Xenia • Xenia • Greek concept of hospitality • Generosity & courtesy shown to those who are far from home • “guest friendship”
3 Basic Rules • The respect from host to guest • Host must be hospitable • Provide guest with food, drink & bath • Not polite to ask questions until the guest has stated their needs • The respect from guest to host • Guest must be courteous • Must not be a burden • Parting gift from host to guest • Shows the host’s honor at receiving the guest
Importance • People thought gods mingled among them • Treat a god poorly, receive the god’s wrath • Protection of traveling bards • Bard would receive place to sleep, food, gifts in exchange for entertainment & news from around the world • Safety of travelers secured by Zeus • Any violator was put at mercy of Zeus or other god who enforces laws
Examples • The Iliad • Paris was a guest of King Menelaus • Abducted the host’s wife, Helen • Achaeans had to avenge Paris’s action • Insult to Zeus’s authority • The Odyssey • Important theme in story • Each household seen alongside xenia • Circe, Calypso, Phaeacians honored xenia • Polyphemusdisgraces xenia