Odyssey Book 13 - 14

Ulysses has now completed relating his tale to the Phaeacians, thus far. Phaeacians traditionally provide travelers with gifts and then ensure their return to their homeland. Thus the Phaeacians provide Ulysses with treasure, provisions, and a ship for him to return to Ithaca. The gifts they bestow upon him are even greater than his (now lost) spoils from the Trojan War. 

Athena provides a blanket of fog for Ulysses' inconspicuous arrival. Athena helps Ulysses to disguise himself as a poor beggar. Athena also arranges for Ulysses and Telemachus to meet at a pig farm near the palace.  

Ulysses is very pleased to learn that his loyal swineherd Eumaeus remains true to Ulysses. Eumaeus speaks highly of his long-gone master, even though he does not recognize the beggar as Ulysses. Eumaeus even believes that Ulysses is probably dead, but harbors a deep hatred for the throngs of suitors trying to woo Penelope. 

Analysis

The kindness and hospitality of the Phaeacians are notable. Again, Homer's description of this shows this to be a virtuous trait, one worthy of great respect. 

Loyalty is also expressed, not only by Athena towards Ulysses and Telemachus but by the swineherd Eumaeus. Ulysses holds loyalty in the highest regard, and it can be expected that Eumaeus' loyalty will be rewarded at some point.