Ancient and classical hospitality: traditions, ethics, manners, etiquette in provision and consumption

Today the hospitality industry tends to believe that it started in the last century. However, from the research reported upon in this paper it is certainly evident that hospitality has a much longer history, honourable tradition, and rich heritage which stretches into antiquity. Modern etymology is a reflection of the past. The past then provides the basis for modern hospitality language. It is suggested therefore that the origins of hospitality, rather than being of esoteric interest, are in fact reflected and celebrated in the language of today. Therefore it is proposed that study of the origins of hospitality traditions, ethics, manners, and etiquette provide for a rich, deep, and fertile area of exploration which can contribute value to the modern commercial hospitality industry.