Book VII, "The Welcome of Alcinous," really demonstrates the importance of hospitality. When Odysseus arrives in Phaeacia, the oldest man of their race tells Alcinous to "'raise up the stranger, seat him on a silver-studded chair, and bid the pages mix more wine, that we may also pour to Zeus, the Thunderer, who waits on worthy suppliants.'" Echeneus calls for this visitor, who they do not realize is Odysseus, to be treated with great honor. He also references Zeus, the most powerful god on Olympus, who also happens to be the protector of travelers. Ancient Greeks believed that offering hospitality was a religious imperative; by honoring guests, one honored Zeus. If one failed to honor a guest, one dishonored Zeus, and this was always inadvisable. The treatment Odysseus receives, as a complete stranger, from the royal family might seem remarkable to us; however, for their society, it was not only appropriate but expected, and Book VII conveys this theme.
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