Student Essay on Calypso

Calypso by Homer

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Essay

Throughout The Odyssey, the protagonist Odysseus endures many barriers, one of which is Calypso (the concealer). Calypso, a beautiful goddess-nymph, who makes her home on the Island of Ogygia, is one of the obstacles Odysseus faces on his return to Ithaca. Calypso held Odysseus captive on her island for several years hoping to change Odysseus' mind (to get married.) Calypso was .".. forever trying to spellbind his heart with suave, seductive words..." (1.67). Homer describes "Calypso the bewitching nymph, the lustrous goddess, held him back..." (1.16). Unlike most of Odysseus' other distractions, which tried to "physically" hurt Odysseus, Calypso wanted to use her beauty and cunning to convince Odysseus to stay forever. The "Modern Day Monster" most similar to calypso would be an advertisement. (One so persuasive and appealing it would seem to be an ideal replacement for a normal necessity). For example if your fish had recently passed away and ironically a commercial [an advertisement] is on TV and is offering a free dog. Truthfully you really want a fish to replace your old; however you consider the free pup. After all it is a man's best friend and puppies are so cute you can not resist. Choosing the dog which is the cutest pup ever will result in spending a lot of money on food as well as a responsibility to walk and care for. What would you chose? Choose the fish you always have been used to or go with the cute puppy in the window. The dog represents Calypso as being physically attractive (cute) but, consumes much responsibility and time.