Odysseus first encounters Circe on the island of Aeaea; she is a minor goddess but most of all an enchantress, who lures Odysseus’ men with a feast of honey and wine, and turns them into pigs. Circe is founded in her elaborate mansion weaving at her loom, surrounded by wild animals that were on the contrary friendly and tame—probably other unfortunate man who had been drugged by the same potion. Although Odysseus, guided by Hermes, is able to ward off her magic drugs and bring his men back to their human state from their animalistic form, he and his men still spend a year in luxury on Circe’s island, and Odysseus “unwillingly” becomes Circe’s lover.
Circe is known for her extravagant beauty and bewitching power over men. With her sensuality and mesmerizing voice, she lures helpless men into her wooded lair. It’s interesting how she emasculates men by changing their form to bestial creatures. Circe breaks all the norms of a patriarchic society. She is not oppressed by men and is even crafty enough to convince Odysseus to be her lover. However, Circe’s power derives from her ability to manipulate and use her body to seduce. Unlike Achilles or Odysseus who use their strength or tactfulness, Circe is simply a harlot-like witch.
-- Anjelica
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