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ScotlandClassical StudiesQuick questions
Classical Literature, Life and Myth
Quick questions on Xenia and values in the Odyssey - SQA National 5 Classical Studies
4short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is xenia?Show answer
Xenia was one of the most important social and religious rules of the Greek world, and the Odyssey treats it as sacred. A proper host took in a stranger before even asking their name, gave them food, washing and rest, and on parting offered gifts and safe passage; the guest in turn behaved with respect and did not abuse the welcome. Because Zeus protected guests and strangers, to break xenia was to offend the gods. This is why the poem can use a character's hospitality, or lack of it, as a clear sign of whether they are good or wicked.
What is q1?Show answer
What was xenia, and which god protected it? [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
How does the Cyclops break the rules of xenia? [2 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
Name one value other than hospitality that the Odyssey promotes, with an example. [2 marks]
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