Here's how the interaction unfolds:
* Approaching Arete: Odysseus approaches Arete while she is seated among the other women, weaving. He knows she is the queen and daughter of King Alcinous, so he shows her respect by standing before her and holding out his hands to beg for mercy.
* His Story: Odysseus tells a fabricated tale of his travels, claiming to have been shipwrecked and robbed by pirates. This story is crafted to gain Arete's sympathy and to subtly suggest his noble origins.
* Appealing to her Compassion: Odysseus emphasizes his plight, his hunger, and his need for help. He cleverly plays on Arete's known compassion and her role as a protector of strangers.
* Seeking Hospitality: He begs Arete to intervene on his behalf and ensure he receives proper treatment and hospitality from the Phaeacian people.
Throughout his interaction with Arete, Odysseus uses his cunning and eloquence to win her trust and favor. He carefully avoids revealing his true identity, as doing so would be dangerous in the Phaeacian court. This calculated approach proves successful, as Arete believes his story and intervenes on his behalf, ultimately leading to his eventual meeting with King Alcinous and his journey home.