Tempations Caused by Lotus Eaters and Circe’s Feast in Homer’s “Odyssey”

Abstract

The comparison of food and literature reveals how these themes penetrate all human experiences. This paper examines the temptations of food and alcohol and their repercussions in Homer's Odyssey. Odysseus and his crew encounter the Lotus-Eaters, a tribe of people who live on an island and eat lotus flowers. Those who eat the lotus have no desire to return home and prefer to stay on the island, basking in the lotus' bliss. This threatens Odysseus' mission since his men risk growing arrogant and losing sight of their goal. In addition, the gang visits Circe's enchanted castle, which is a feasting site where Odysseus and his crew are enticed with lavish food and drink, resulting in temptation. Odysseus and his companions encounter the evil witch Circe on the island of Aeaea. Circe transforms the crew into pigs, but Odysseus defeats her sorcery with the help of the god Hermes and his own wits, forcing her to restore his men to human form. Circe then becomes Odysseus' ally, guiding him through the upcoming challenges and providing valuable information about his mission. This article explores the themes of change, temptation, and the importance of cleverness and resilience in the face of supernatural hardship.