An Age that has Forgotten the ‘Law of Zeus’ [Han-gyeore Prism]

The film "Odyssey," directed by Christopher Nolan, begins with the caption "an era of magic," but its story is dominated by rules rather than magic. The code of conduct practiced by multiple characters in the film, known as 'Xenia' or guest friendship, follows a long-standing golden rule: to treat others as one would like to be treated.

Ancient Greeks were known to extend food and shelter to strangers without questioning their identity or origin. The stranger, in turn, was expected to respect the host's space and eventually leave. This act of hospitality was not only a gesture towards the unknown self but also a safeguard for future encounters. The story appears to unfold at the point where these rules crumble.

The subplot involving Trojan Prince Paris being taken to Sparta by its queen Helen, the catalyst for the Trojan War, is grounded in the betrayal of trust, a device used to initiate a decade-long conflict. 'Odyssey' reframes the classic tale of a victorious warrior to focus on the personal reckoning of dismantling a civilization and navigating its ruins back home.

In this sense, the film may be offering a harsh lesson on the consequences of destroying what has been held sacred in human relations. The destruction and tragedy depicted in the film's representation of Xenia extend beyond ancient Greek mythology and tragic heroes. The chaos that ensues from 'breaking promises' and 'losing trust' is a recurring theme in today's global economy and trade landscape.

Xenia, which once protected city-states, now serves as 'universal trade norms and mutual trust' in the modern world. Today, the global trade order is teetering on the brink of a brutal reality where the rule of law is challenged by the logic of power. The ancient characters who tore apart Xenia in the film paid the price of war and ruin.

Similarly, the contemporary reality of losing rules is suffering the 'inevitability' of uncertainty. The United States' unilateral tariff hikes and agreement breakdowns against the Korean and other allies have shaken the very foundation of trade – predictability. With the U.S. demanding repayment of past investments and supply chain transfers, the country finds itself in a precarious position, much like a hunted animal facing a shot arrow.

The film's warning resonates strongly in the reality where an overbearing power dismantles international norms with unilateral actions, inadvertently backfiring on itself and damaging its economy. Does the warning in the film hold true in the real world?