Telemachus is a very good host. He is limited in his capabilities by the presence of the rowdy suitors but he more than makes up for it with his kindness, and warmth. “Greetings, stranger!
Here in our house you’ll find a royal welcome.
Have supper first, then tell us what you need.” (bk 1), is in fact the first words he speaks in the book.
Despite his mistreatment by guests (the suitors), when he sees a stranger at the door, not only does he go welcome the guest and invite them immediately, he is ashamed and embarrassed, at the possibility that the stranger had been waiting out in the cold. The suitors drain his wealth and bleed the halls white, but Telemachus still gives liberally to others, in the form of gifts and food. Even the swine herder, assures a poor beggar that Telemachus will give him clothes, food, and send him wherever his heart desires. Something that Telemachus also offers to a fugitive, later. Telemachus, is a courteous guest despite having never left home and been the guest of another before. He is consistent in his polite treatment of his hosts. Although, he does end up basically crashing a wedding, it is purely by chance. …show more content…
He also politely listens to Nestor even though he doesn’t get straight to the point and seems to ramble a lot. Later, at Menelaus’s house, despite his urgency, he does not declare himself or ask any questions because he doesn’t want to ruin or steal attention from the weddings. He only reveals himself and his mission when asked to do so. When, he decides to depart receiving gifts is far from his mind. Pisistratus insists they stay, so they may receive gifts and Telemachus only agrees because it would be too dark to drive a chariot, anyway. Telemachus is a polite guest, he is grateful, graceful, and is careful not to overstep or take advantage of his host's