Reading Notes: Homer's Odyssey Part A

The Moly Defeats Circe

Story source: Homer's Odyssey, translated into English by Tony Kline. (2004).

Circe Offering the Cup to Odysseus

After Eurylochus returns from losing his men, Odysseus goes to Circe's house to confront her and save them. On his way, he is stopped by Hermes who warns that he will not return unless he uses a special herb to protect himself from Circe's magic. He is also told to swing his sword at her after being pointed by her wand, and to lay in bed with her, but only after having her swear an oath not to harm him. Hermes then gives Odysseus the Moly herb, and he goes back to Olympus. 

Odysseus does as told. Circe is impressed by him not falling under her spell so she kneels before him and begs him not to kill her; she then invites him to her bed. He is cared for by the Goddesses' handmaidens but refuses to eat until he sees his men freed. Circe agrees and turns the pigs back into men. They cry and thank Odysseus and even Circe pities them.