How does Eumaeus show an understanding of hospitality?
What is sometimes hard to remember is that Odysseus is still transformed into that old, poor man. Eumaeus, Odysseus' old time slave, does not even recognize him. Odysseus is a complete stranger to this man, and Homer even acknowledges this. Even without knowing this is Odysseus, Eumaeus even addresses him as "my master" (Book 14, line 77). Eumaeus has been a servant for a very long time to Odysseus' family. When he mentions Odysseus, he longs for him. When talking about his absence, he says, "so deeply he loved me, cared for me, so deeply" (Book 14, line 171). Odysseus is his real master, yet even when a stranger comes to his farm, he greets him kindly, and calls him his master. This is a sign not only of understanding hospitality, but performing it. These qualities of Eumaeus is the reason Homer addresses him. For example, after Odysseus thanks Eumaeus for accepting him, Homer says, "And you replied, Eumaeus, loyal swineherd" Book 14, line 63). This acknowledgement from Homer is a special privilege. No other man up to this point has received this recognition. Homer has thanked Eumaeus for his hospitality, and has gained his respect and that of Odysseus' as well.
Why does Odysseus see Eumaeus as one of his trusted slaves?
Eumaeus' hospitality alone is enough to receive the respect of any man, even Homer, yet Eumaeus', loyalty to his true master, is why Eumaeus is one of Odysseus' trusted slaves. Odysseus was sent to this swineherd to gain knowledge. Yet since Odysseus has to hide his true self, he can not necessarily get all this information as easily as if he were the true Odysseus. They ask about the other's life and history. Yet when Odysseus, in his old man form, says he wants to go to Odysseus' place, Eumaeus is the first one to warn him about the suitors. He even asks Odysseus, "what's go into your head, what crazy plan?" (Book 15, line 363). This caring aspect of Eumaeus is probably one of the same aspects that puts him with the other trysted slaves of Odysseus.
