Xenia: Ancient Greek Guest-Friendship (Clip)

This ancient Greek concept was a big part of their culture as well as Homer’s “Odyssey,” and according to translator Emily Wilson, the poem can be treated as a study in xenia.  It facilitated travel in a time with far less safety, no hotels, etc.  There was a series of actions to the custom:

Welcome

Wash

Food

Guest gives identity

Guest given gifts to help him on his way

The suitors back at Odysseus' home horribly violate this value.

(From the episode “Xenia: Odysseus’ Blessing and Curse”)

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