Calypso

Definition

Calypso is a nymph in Greek mythology who plays a crucial role in 'The Odyssey' by keeping Odysseus on her island, Ogygia, for seven years. She embodies themes of temptation and desire, representing both the allure of escape from hardship and the struggles of loyalty in relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calypso is often viewed as a symbol of temptation, as she offers Odysseus immortality and a life of comfort if he chooses to stay with her.
2. Her island, Ogygia, represents both a paradise and a prison for Odysseus, highlighting his internal struggle between desire and duty.
3. Despite Calypso's affection for Odysseus, she ultimately has to let him go when Hermes delivers the message from Zeus that he must return home.
4. Calypso's character raises questions about free will versus fate, as Odysseus's journey is influenced by divine intervention.
5. The encounter with Calypso emphasizes the theme of longing for home, as Odysseus yearns to return to Ithaca and his wife Penelope.

Review Questions

• How does Calypso's role impact Odysseus's journey and what does it reveal about his character?
  • Calypso's role significantly impacts Odysseus's journey by presenting him with the choice between a comfortable life with her or continuing his arduous quest to return home. This highlights his character as someone who values loyalty and the yearning for home over temporary pleasures. Despite being tempted by Calypso’s offer of immortality, Odysseus ultimately demonstrates his desire to fulfill his responsibilities and reunite with Penelope.
• Discuss the implications of Calypso’s relationship with Odysseus regarding themes of loyalty and betrayal in 'The Odyssey'.
  • Calypso’s relationship with Odysseus introduces complex themes of loyalty and betrayal. While Calypso genuinely loves Odysseus and desires to keep him on her island, her actions also symbolize the potential for betrayal of his vows to Penelope. This situation forces readers to consider the nature of fidelity, as Odysseus grapples with feelings for both women, reflecting the broader struggles between personal desire and moral obligations within the narrative.
• Evaluate how Calypso’s character serves as a contrast to Penelope and what this reveals about the expectations placed on women in 'The Odyssey'.
  • Calypso’s character serves as a significant contrast to Penelope, illustrating differing expectations placed on women in 'The Odyssey'. While Calypso represents seduction and temptation, Penelope embodies loyalty and patience as she waits for Odysseus's return. This comparison reveals how women are often defined by their relationships with men and their responses to those relationships, showcasing societal norms that expect fidelity from wives while allowing more freedom for female figures like Calypso.

Related terms

Odysseus:

The protagonist of 'The Odyssey', known for his intelligence and cunning, who faces numerous challenges on his journey home after the Trojan War.

Nymph: A minor female deity associated with nature, often depicted as beautiful and seductive, who can lure mortals into their realm.

Loyalty:

A key theme in 'The Odyssey', representing the faithfulness of characters like Penelope, who waits for Odysseus despite the temptation of other suitors.