Q.Discuss the role of xenia (the guest-host relationship) in The Odyssey. How do guests and/or hosts exemplify or fail to meet the high standard he has in mind for how guests and hosts should treat each other?
A.The role of Xenia, in the Odyssey, is revealed by a comparison between the places that Telemachus and Odysseus have visited, and the suitors in Telemachus’ home. Telemachus visited King Nestor and Menelaus, and these two kings welcomed Telemachus to their home even though they did not know the identity of Telemachus. It is the same treatment that King Alcinous gave to Odysseus when he came to the island of the Ethiopians, setting up a feast and celebration. Compared to these three King’s welcoming, the suitors in Telemachus’ home were unwelcoming and disrespectful. I think that in the ancient Greece time there was the custom of giving kindness to visitors, and it is highly represented by higher classes (Kings) which are supported by God.
The answer you wrote about the role of Xenia, I agree with it. The hospitality was showed by two kings to Telemachus Wes really welcoming.