Hospitality in different eras

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Many of the literary works in World Literature deal with the idea of heroes and gods. Even though each story comes from different time periods, they all have a central theme that is similar in some type of way. Whatever the hero endures in his journey, we, the readers can relate to it. The lesson being taught to the heroes leads us to reevaluate our views on certain aspects of life. Each hero is brave, intelligent, confident, and has great physical strength. Each hero has a downfall as well. Many times their pride gets in the way or the fact that they are disloyal and sometimes deceitful. The lessons these heroes experienced taught me to always be determined to finish whatever I decide to start no matter what the situation is. When comparing and contrasting a different aspect of two stories from different periods, I notice the views of hospitality is different. Hospitality is the generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, and strangers. The way the people handle hospitality in the Odyssey and Beowulf are totally divergent. The people of my society can relate to each view on hospitality depending on how that particular person was raised.
In the Odyssey, hospitality is the relationship between guest and host. It focuses on the sharing of wealth, knowledge, and accommodation. Being nice was a major thing in the Odyssey. Pleasing the gods, guest and spreading a good reputation was very important. When strangers come in contact with someone, they feel as if they know the individual as soon as they meet them. They make sure they make the stranger feel comfortable before business is handled. When Telemachus saw Athena he went straight to the porch, indignant that she had to wait so long being that she was a guest. When...

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...ersonal space. When it comes to my view of hospitality I am similar to the people in Beowulf. I was raised up to ask questions before doing anything for anyone. Yes that particular individual may come off as nice and sweet but you never know anyone’s true intentions so take precaution. After reading these two stories and comparing and contrasting them, I understand the true meaning of hospitality and believe it is ok to be nice to individuals.

Works Cited

Alvesteffer, Steve. "Hospitality in the Odyssey." StormShock. Web. 25 Apr. 2012. .

“Beowulf”. The Norton Anthology of World Literature Volume B. Ed. Martin Puchner et.al. New York: Norton, 2012. 107-182. Print

Homer. “The Odyssey”. The Norton Anthology of World Literature Volume A. Ed. Martin Puchner et.al. New York: Norton, 2012. 332-622. Print

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