The ancient Greeks brought many ideas, inventions, and stories to the world. Greek mythology influences literature and modern life. The Odyssey is an epic poem written by Homer, which tells the story of Odysseus' return journey after the Trojan War. Odysseus does not achieve his goal of reaching home so easily; monsters and gods come in his way and hinder him. The Odyssey expresses the Greek values ​​of hospitality from the customs of Ithaca, humility resulting from Odysseus' reform, and the loyalty of Odysseus' family. The Greek value of hospitality is expounded in the Odyssey of Odysseus and Penelope. Odysseus and his hungry men entered an unknown cave, which housed the Cyclopes. Once the Cyclops saw the men, he asked why they were there, and in Odysseus' explanation he mentions “It was fortunate to come here; here we are grateful for your help or for any gift you give, as it is customary to honor strangers” (line 194). Ulysses tries to convince the Cyclops to let him and his men live by taking advantage of the Greek value of hospitality. He wants the Cyclops to see him as a guest, not as food. It was second nature to Odysseus to help a guest or person in need. As Penelope spoke to the suitors she noted, "Behold a poor man, a wanderer, driven by desire to beg his bread, and all in the hall gave pieces, to fill his purse" (line 1116). He shamed Antinous for not helping the man, because in Ithaca it is customary to provide food to the hungry and poor. The fact that Antinous “threw a stool” at Odysseus and “struck him on the shoulder” shocked Penelope. The thought of doing such a thing was unheard of for Penelope as hospitality is part of her way of life along with all the other Greeks. The people of Ithaca from the Odyssey a...... middle of paper... the master has finally returned home. While Odysseus was away, the suitors of Ithaca wanted to take over, but Penelope and Telemachus persevered. Most of Ithaca has lost hope for Odysseus, but still "Penelope does not believe that Odysseus is dead (father and son)". Penelope has not yet surrendered to Ulysses. She remained loyal to him and did not let the pretenders take control of Ithaca. She defended her husband who she hasn't heard from in 20 years. His strong loyalty allowed Odysseus to once again rule his kingdom once he returned home. In the Odyssey the people of Ithaca are accustomed to hospitality. On the long journey home, Odysseus learns to maintain modesty. Odysseus' family never gives up on him throughout his 20-year journey and they hold Ithaca for him when he returns. The Greek values ​​of hospitality, humility and loyalty are conveyed in the Odyssey.