Values In The Phaeacian Societ essays

Values In The Phaeacian Societ essays The Importance of Values In The Phaeacian Society The Phaeacian societys values are what the basis of what their civilized community is built on. In Robert Fagles translation of The Odyssey by Homer, there are numerous references made to what kind of values are held by the Phaeacian society. In book VI, as well as the rest of the books, there are examples of how the societies values provide structure, regulation, and rules for the culture to live by. It is evident in the writing, not only directly, but also indirectly, such as peoples responses and reactions to certain activities or words. One of the most important and easily recognizable values of the Phaeacian society is hospitality. Throughout the book, there are numerous examples of the importance of hospitality to the culture. The encounter between Odysseus and Nausicaa is a perfect display of what great extents one is expected to go to provide a guest, especially a stranger, with superb hospitality. Nausicaa is well trained in her manners, and very well she should be, the daughter of a king. She is representing her family, and reflects this when she tells her maidens, heres an unlucky wanderer strayed our way and we must tend him well.... So, quick, my girls, give our newfound friend some food and drink and bathe the him in the river(VI. 226-231). This is an unusual act in todays culture; to feed and bathe a complete stranger met on a waterfront. Nausicaa further extends her hospitality by inviting Odysseus to come to her residence later in the evening to meet her mother and father. The fact that a famil y of great importance, or even royalty, doesnt scrutinize a stranger, but makes sure his every need is taken care of before anything else, illustrates just how important the value of hospitality is to the Phaeacian society. It represents their level of civility and refinement in their culture. This level is something that...