The Phaeacian section of The Odyssey seems most likely influenced by fairy tales or folk legends. It fits a genre, found in many cultures, in which a beautiful, innocent young girl, often a princess, is attracted to a rugged, handsome stranger who usually is older and always more experienced. Sometimes the two end up together; more often, the man makes an impression on the younger woman (with varying degrees of intimacy) and moves on. Even in modern times, this theme is popular in fiction and drama. In this case, Odysseus acknowledges the charms of the virgin Nausicaa but is intent on returning to Penelope.
Phaeacia certainly is a Utopia. With minor exceptions, the people are decent, civilized, and kind. They are known for returning helpless strangers to their homelands, an act that exceeds even the generous welcomes usually found in The Odyssey. This tradition is also consistent with the locals’ devotion to Zeus, protector of lost wanderers and champion of suppliants. The island itself is a paradise. Luxuriant orchards, featuring apples, pears, figs, pomegranates, and more, bear fruit year-round (7.129 ff.). Vegetables and grains are in abundance. No one goes hungry on Scheria.
