PRESENTATION OUTLINE
WHO IS CIRCE?
- Circe is the goddess of magic, a witch, a sorceress, and an enchantress.
- Circe is known for transforming her enemies into animals.
Circe lived alone on the island, Aeaea. And that is where one of her myths began...
During his journey to Ithaca , Odysseus and his crew stopped at the island, Aeaea. Circe, who lived on the island, invited Odysseus and his comrades to a large feast, but Odysseus did not attend.
Circe placed a magic potion in one of the meals at the banquet. When Odysseus' crew ate it, Circe quickly transformed them into swine with her magic wand.
One member of Odysseus' crew escaped and told Odysseus about the event. Odysseus drew his sword, and headed to Circe to confront her. Before reaching her, Hermes, the Messenger of the Gods, appeared to him. Hermes advised him to take a holy herb, called Moly, to protect himself from Circe's spells.
When Odysseus arrived, he threatened Circe's life if she did not transform the crew back. Circe agreed, and turned the swine back to Odysseus' crew.
Odysseus and his men remained on Aeaea for one year, before returning to their perilous voyage.
When they finally left, Circe sent a favorable wind their way, along with warnings of the dangers that lay ahead.
