Themes in Book 14 of Homer's "The Odyssey"

Paper Summary:

This paper explores the themes of Book 14 of Homer's "The Odyssey." The paper examines several scenes from Book 14 to show that the main themes of Book 14 are meant to reinforce the central plot concern of "The Odyssey." The paper argues that the main themes of Book 14 are hospitality and the necessity of treating all guests with kindness. Further, that the kindness Odysseus shows to Eumaeus even though the two do not trust each other fully, shows that just because two men do not trust each other, they cannot descend into cruelty and savagery.

From the Paper:

"Kindness to strangers, pigs, and lies--these are common images and themes that run throughout Homer's "Odyssey" and reoccur in Book 14. First and foremost, Book 14 reinforces the central plot concern of "The Odyssey," the problems of hospitality and the need to treat strange guests with kindness. The conflict between guests and hosts, of course, is the reason for the entire story coming into being. Odysseus was forced to wander the world after sacking Troy because of what happened after his encounter with his 'host' the Cyclops. When the Cyclops tried to kill Odysseus and his crew, Odysseus blinded the monster to escape. The Cyclops begged his father Poseidon to avenge this wrong, and the sea god diverted Odysseus' ship into many adventures, away from his home in Ithaca, forcing Odysseus to become dependant upon strangers. In Book 14, Odysseus is home, but he has been gone so long from his kingdom, no one believes that it is possible that he can return. His faithful swineherd will not even accept the idea that Odysseus is still alive, even though he will swear allegiance to no one else, and hopes that Odysseus' wife Penelope will not marry another man."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Homer. "Book 14." The Odyssey. Translated by Ian Johnston. October 23, 2008. http://records.viu.ca/~johnstoi/homer/odyssey14.htm

More papers on Themes in Book 14 of Homer's "The Odyssey":

• Analytical Essay # 26382 : "Book XIII of Homer's "Odyssey"
• Analytical Essay # 5505 : "Themes in Arthur Lord Tennyson's 'The Lady of Shalott'"
• Poem Review # 127032 : "Homer's "The Odyssey"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: