Story Summary
Discover the epic myth of Odysseus and Circe, where the hero must use divine aid to outsmart a powerful sorceress and save his crew from a magical curse.
After escaping the land of the Laestrygonians, Odysseus and his exhausted crew arrived at Aeaea, the island of the enchantress Circe. Odysseus sent a scouting party led by Eurylochus to explore the island's interior. Deep in the woods, they discovered a stone palace surrounded by strangely docile lions and wolves. Circe invited the men inside, offering them a feast laced with a potent drug. As they ate, she struck them with her wand, transforming them into swine while keeping their human minds intact. Eurylochus, who had stayed outside, fled back to the ship to warn Odysseus. Armed and determined, Odysseus set out alone to rescue his men. Along the way, he was met by the god Hermes, who gave him a mystical white flower called moly to protect him from Circe's magic. When Odysseus reached the palace, he drank Circe’s drugged wine, but the moly rendered it harmless. As she drew her wand, Odysseus lunged with his sword, forcing the terrified sorceress to swear an oath not to harm him. Under his command, Circe restored his men to human form. Odysseus and his crew remained on Aeaea for a year, where Circe eventually became an ally, providing the hero with the vital knowledge he needed to navigate the dangers of the Underworld and the Sirens on his long journey home.
The Moral
True leadership requires bravery and the wisdom to seek help when facing insurmountable odds.
“With the herb of Hermes in hand, the hero stood firm against the sorceress’s brew.”
Fun Fact
The 'moly' herb mentioned in the story is often identified by modern botanists as Galanthus nivalis, the snowdrop, which contains compounds that can actually counteract certain types of poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Odysseus and Circe?
The story emphasizes that wisdom, preparation, and divine guidance are essential to overcoming deception and temptation. It also highlights the importance of a leader's loyalty to his followers.
How did Odysseus resist Circe's magic?
The messenger god Hermes provided Odysseus with a magical herb called 'moly.' This plant acted as an antidote, preventing Circe's drugged wine from transforming him into an animal.
What did Circe turn Odysseus's men into?
Circe turned the scouting party into swine (pigs) using a magic potion and her wand, though they retained their human memories and consciousness throughout the ordeal.
Who helped Odysseus defeat Circe?
The god Hermes played the most crucial role by providing the moly herb and instructing Odysseus on how to intimidate the sorceress to ensure his safety and the release of his men.
How long did Odysseus stay with Circe?
Odysseus and his crew stayed on the island of Aeaea for one full year. During this time, they recovered their strength and received prophetic advice from Circe regarding their future travels.
Why did Circe help Odysseus after their conflict?
Once Odysseus proved he could resist her magic and forced her to swear a holy oath, she recognized his greatness and became a hospitable host and a valuable guide for his journey home.