Literature and History Episode 13: His Mind Teeming (Homer's Odyssey, Books 9-16)
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Apr 19, 2016 This podcast explores the motivations and distinctions between Odysseus and Achilles, two great Ancient Greek heroes. Topics include Penelope's predicament with the suitors, encounters with gods and mythical creatures, the journey to the Underworld, the reunion of Odysseus and his son, and the darker themes in Homer's Odyssey.
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The Cyclops, The Eye, And Poseidon's Curse
- Odysseus and twelve men enter the Cyclops' cave, get trapped, and Odysseus blinds the monster with a heated stake.
- After escaping tied under sheep, Odysseus reveals his name and the Cyclops prays to Poseidon, cursing him homeward.
Circe, Hermes, And The Journey To Hades
- Odysseus rescues his men from Circe with Hermes' help, resists her drugs, and stays a year before she advises him to visit the dead.
- Circe sends him to Hades to consult the blind seer Teiresias for guidance home.
The Necromancy And Achilles' Lament
- In Hades Odysseus performs rituals, meets Teiresias and the shades, and receives prophecies about further trials and the suitors.
- He hears Achilles' famous lament preferring life as a laborer to ruling the dead.