Concepts and Themes in ODYSSEY
XENIA (Greek: ξενία) is an ancient Greek concept of hospitality. It is almost always
translated as 'guest-friendship' or 'ritualized friendship'. It is an institutionalized
relationship rooted in generosity, gift exchange, and reciprocity.[1] Historically,
hospitality towards foreigners and guests was understood as a moral obligation.
KLEOS and NOSTOS
Kleos (Greek: κλέος) is the Greek word often translated to “renown”, or “glory”.
The Iliad is about gaining ultimate kleos on the battlefields of Troy while the
Odyssey is the ten-year quest of Odysseus’ nostos (or return journey). Telemachus
fears that he has been deprived of kleos.
Nostos (Ancient Greek: νόστος) is a theme used in Ancient Greek literature, which
includes an epic hero returning home by sea. The theme of Nostos is brought to life
in Homer’s The Odyssey, where the main hero Odysseus tries to return home after
battling in the Trojan War.
What is the main point of the Odyssey?
Among the themes explored by “The Odyssey” are those of homecoming,
vengeance, the restoration of order, hospitality, respect for the gods, order and
fate, and, perhaps most importantly, loyalty (Odysseus’ loyalty in persisting in his
attempts to return home, even after twenty years, Telemachus’ loyalty, Penelope’s
loyalty)