the assembly seats were filled with people thronging,
gazing in wonder at the seasoned man of war…
Over Odysseus’ head and shoulders now
Athena lavished a marvelous splendor, yes,
making him taller, more massive to all eyes,
so Phaeacians might regard the man with kindness,
awe and respect as well, and he might win through
the many trials they’d pose to test the hero’s strength.
– Homer
The Odyssey, Book 8, lines 18-25. Athena alters Odysseus’ physical appearance by making him taller and more massive, so that the Phaeacians will be more kind and respectful to him. This passage also foreshadows the "trials" of strength that Odysseus will be put through by the Phaeacians.