Overview
This lecture covers Book 12 of the Odyssey, focusing on Odysseus’ encounters with Circe, the Sirens, Scylla and Charybdis, and the consequences of his crew’s disobedience, highlighting themes of loyalty and trust.
Return to Circe’s Island
- Odysseus returns to Circe’s Island to give his fallen comrade Elpenor a proper burial, as promised.
- Circe warns Odysseus about dangers ahead: the Sirens, Scylla, and Charybdis.
The Sirens
- The Sirens lure sailors to their deaths with their enchanting singing.
- Circe instructs Odysseus to have his men plug their ears with wax to avoid hearing the Sirens.
- Odysseus, curious, asks his men to tie him to the mast so he can listen safely.
- Odysseus survives the Sirens by following this plan.
Scylla and Charybdis
- Scylla is a multi-headed monster that eats several of Odysseus’ men as they pass.
- Charybdis is a deadly whirlpool; Odysseus manages to avoid losing all of his men here.
The Island of Helios
- Odysseus warns his men not to eat the sacred cattle of the Sun God, Helios.
- While Odysseus sleeps, his crew slaughters and eats the cattle, disobeying his orders.
- Helios demands punishment from Zeus; Zeus destroys Odysseus’ ship with a storm, killing all his men.
- Odysseus alone survives, reaching Calypso’s island.
Major Themes
- Loyalty is shown in Odysseus returning to fulfill his promise for Elpenor’s burial.
- Temptation is illustrated through Odysseus’ actions with the Sirens.
- The importance of sharing information and trust is questioned, especially regarding Odysseus’ leadership decisions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Sirens — Creatures whose beautiful singing lures sailors to destruction.
- Scylla — A multi-headed sea monster that preys on passing sailors.
- Charybdis — A giant whirlpool that swallows anything near it.
- Helios — The Sun God, owner of sacred cattle.
- Calypso — A nymph who holds Odysseus captive after he is shipwrecked.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Book 12 of the Odyssey for details on each trial.
- Consider how themes of loyalty and trust are developed in Odysseus’ journey.