The Female Figure

This chapter focuses on gifts and acts of ξενία by female figures. It examines the actions by silent and often unnamed female servants in the palaces of Sparta, Phaeacia, Ogygia and Ithaka. These actions involve bathing and the provision of food and drink, as well as bedding for the stranger-guest. Major named and speaking female figures are also examined for their roles in gift-giving and gift-receiving, notably also gift-giving between female figures, bathing of the stranger-guest, welcoming of the stranger-guest and story-telling. Negative aspects of female figures and their acts of ξενία are also examined in relation to welcoming and gift-giving.