Evidence

"'Why not take these cheeses, get them stowed, come back, throw open all the pens, and make a run for it?'" ("The Cyclops", lines 166-168)
"We lit a fire, burnt an offering, and took some cheese to eat; then sat in silence around the embers, waiting." ("The Cyclops", lines 174-176)

Explanation

Xenia is a Greek philosophy whereby the host should always provide hospitality to any stranger who is a guest. When Odysseus and his crew arrives at the Cyclops Polythemus' cave, his crew yearns to take the valuables and run away. Nevertheless, Odysseus believes that they should stay in the cave to see the host and they might receive more offerings.

Connection

Due to the prevalence of xenia, Odysseus naturally believes that he will be treated as a guest and can take whatever he wants from Polythemus' cave. This expectation, rooted in cultural stereotypes, leads Odysseus to stay and meet the Cyclops, hoping for generosity. However, Polyphemus, who is likely from a different culture, does not share this value and reacts with hostility, eating some of Odysseus' men. Thus, this reveals how stereotypes create false expectations, leading to misunderstandings and conflict in relationships. Odysseus' belief in universal hospitality results in a dangerous encounter, showing how stereotypes can mislead and cause harm. The story shows misjudgment and danger when assumptions are made based on cultural expectations.