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Essay / Xenia's Themes in Homer's Odyssey - 1206
Through her use and experience of the practice, the reader follows her coming-of-age story. It is evident that, whatever the circumstances (such as the annoyance of the suitors), he is more than willing to exercise Greek hospitality: “Welcome, stranger. You will be welcomed among us as a guest. Then, when you have tasted dinner, you will tell us what your need is” (Book I, lines 122-124). After greeting this stranger (who was actually Athena in disguise), her servants provided her with a place to wash her hands, food, and drink. This act may have put Telemachus on good terms with Athena, who aided him on his journey to try to discover the whereabouts of his father. Without this hospitality, Athena might not have helped Telemachus on his journey. During his journey, Telemachus experiences Greek hospitality in every house he encounters. Even the hosts of these houses were very open to him (and Athena) and made them feel welcome in their home.