The geography of ancient Greece made it extremely difficult for people to travel for long periods of time. It took a long time to reach his destination and there was very little shelter and food. It was during this time that travelers depended on the hospitality of others. As seen in The Odyssey, Homer shows that hospitality was an important and important part of ancient Greek society. The host welcomes their guest, bathes them, receives food and gifts, and is provided transportation to their destination. This type of relationship between a host and a guest is known as xenos. When this relationship is built, the host offers his guest many gifts in exchange; they would derive many benefits from it. One reason is that this simple act allows the host to have a good reputation and create a connection with others across the country. Providing good hospitality was also the best thing to please the gods. It was believed that firing someone would result in punishment from the gods. The hosts didn't know who their visitor was, they treated each guest as if they were a god in disguise. This allows each guest to be treated the same and will spare them the punishment of the gods. Greek hospitality comes above all from this key notion. The Odyssey describes gift-giving and hospitality among the xenos as an important part of Homeric society aimed at pleasing the gods. This epic begins when Athena goes to Ithaca to speak to Telemachus. Disguised as Mentes, Athena stands in front of Telemachus' door. He takes her hand and says, “Welcome, stranger. You will be welcomed among us as a guest. Then, when you have tasted dinner, you will tell us what you need” (1.122-124). Telemachus does not know...... middle of paper ...... -the guest relationship in Homeric society. A host should only ask the guest's name after welcoming them and offering protection. Overall, xenos constitute an important way of life in Homeric society. Respect must be given to everyone. The host must provide their guest with everything they need, whether it's clothing, food or drinks, and then ask for their identity. They then provide the guest with gifts and transportation for their departure. Homer shows that whether this was done for the traditional norms of society or for the gods, it would be considered unethical. Homer shows this using the story of Polyphemus. Even if you are the son of a god, if you do not show respect and hospitality to your guests, you will definitely be punished. This understanding of the xenoi allows Homer's audience to see the role of the gift and it is linked to respect..