The Odyssey Odyssey

Send us a textIN WHICH: We consider the implications of windbags, pompous and otherwise, as our hero begins to feel the full effects of the parting curse of the Cyclops. 

Send us a textIN WHICH: Our hero seeks hospitality in The Wrong Cave.  We meet everyone's favorite mythological monster: Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose appetites are as shocking as his social skills.

Send us a textIN WHICH: We hear the complete poem "The Lotos-eaters" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

Send us a textIN WHICH: Odysseus himself takes over the narrative and decides to begin at the beginning.  He recounts the departure of his twelve ships with 600 men from the ruins of Troy to an audience that knows the ending: only one of them will survive.A raid on the Cicones goes horribly wrong, and our hero and his trusted companions are blown wildly off course - almost as if they had gone up in a cyclone.FOOTNOTES FOR THIS EPISODE ARE HERECONTACT TOM LEE HERE

Dive into the fascinating life of Hephaestus, the god of fire and blacksmithing, as his struggles with family dynamics unfold. Explore the stark contrasts between his imperfect craftsmanship and Athena's divine birth. Discover the chaotic mythology surrounding his revenge on Hera and the intriguing origins of Erechtheus, Athens's first king. Rich narratives and artistic representations highlight his tumultuous tales, blending humor with deep themes of friendship and honor in ancient Greek culture.

Odysseus encounters the blind bard Demodocus, whose storytelling captivates him and reveals layers of his own past. Tension arises during Phaeacian athletic competitions, exploring themes of legacy and pride. A grand feast offers roasted boar and camaraderie, blending art with life. As he listens to tales from the Trojan War, Odysseus faces his hidden sorrows, allowing reflections on personal loss and collective history. The intricate dance of competition and emotion beautifully showcases the power of storytelling.

The podcast delves into Odysseus's epic journey and the hospitality of King Alcinous and Queen Arete. It explores the allure of deceptive sanctuaries through gripping tales of travelers in stormy encounters. A quirky balloon adventure leads to themes of wonder and isolation on Krakatoa. The enchanting island of Scoria is vividly described, showcasing its divine inhabitants and Odysseus's yearning for home. The discussions weave in timeless myths, blending ancient storytelling with contemporary reflections on hope and hospitality.

Send us a textIN WHICH: We explore the lineage of King Alcinous, Odysseus's host, tracing his family line back to the notorious and ill-fated race of Giants.

Send us a textIN WHICH: We return from an unexpected hiatus with a "party piece" - a performance of an excerpt from Alexander Pope's 1726 verse translation of The Odyssey, Book V.

Send us a textIN WHICH:  Odysseus is rescued by a young princess engaged in pursuits of domestic management. Athena returns him to a state of manly elegance, and the princess promises him a speedy return to his homeland on a magical ship.