Homer :: essays research papers

In Homers epic, The Odyssey, women play an integral role in the life of Odysseus, the storys protagonist. Odysseus is forced to leave the solace of Ithaca because of a woman, Helen, and he longs to effect to his home largely for a woman, his wife Penelope. Throughout his journey, however, it is Circe who has a heavy influence on Odysseus because she is a major embarrassment and thus an obstacle for the renowned hero. Indeed, Circes comeliness coupled with her sorcery, and her kindness along with lavish hospitality all distract Odysseus and impede him from swiftly reversive home. With her another(prenominal)worldly beauty and enchantments, Circe is a distraction for Odysseus and therefore an obstacle on his road to Ithaca. With her sensuality and magic potions, Circe is able to get that which she desires from men. After Odysseus, guided and forewarned by Hermes, drinks Circes potion and is not bewitched, Circe is amazed for no other man has ever resisted her magic (X, 348-350). Although Circe is probably used to fulfilling her sexual desires with men she has enchanted, she nevertheless tries to go to get along with Odysseus. She tells him, Climb into my bed and tangle in love there, so we may come to trust each other (X, 356-357). Odysseus tries to resist the charming goddess and tells her that she must betoken no more trouble for him, but as soon as she does that which he asks he climbs into Circes beautiful bed (X, 366-369). After ten age of fighting, Odyssey has grown quite lonely. He has been away from Penelope, his wife and the only other woman who most likely fulfilled his needs and desires, and Circe is putting forth truly tempting offers. Although her potion did not have an effect on him, Circes physical beauty definitely appealed to Odysseus otherwise, he would have cunningly found something to do other than engaging in an intimate act with Circe. The goddess-nymph has many a trick up her sleeve, and she could have also found another way to ge t Odysseus to go to bed with her. She had no need to do such a thing because Odysseus was in a vulnerable state. Months at sea and at war bunghole be quite trying on anyone, so Odysseus was susceptible to falling for someone--especially someone as seductive as Circe. With physical beauty and magical powers, Circe distracts Odysseus and hampers his return to Ithaca.