Greek Gods in The Odyssey

Zeus Zeus is the supreme god and ruler of Olympus. He is the undisputed master of the universe, and he causes rain, drought, good weather and bad weather. Nobody dares challenge his fearsome thunderbolts. He is somewhat unpredictable. His daughter is Athena.

Athena The great Athena is the goddess of wisdom and war. Unlike the god of war, Ares, she takes no pleasure from battle, and she prefers intelligence over brute strength. She frequently intervenes on Odysseus’ behalf, often in disguise.

Poseidon Poseidon is the brother of Zeus, and he rules over the seas and oceans of the world. The great Poseidon is nearly equal to his brother in power and dignity, and he is feared and worshipped by the Greeks. He is the father of the Cyclops, and seeks revenge on Odysseus for blinding his son.

Calypso Calypso is a goddess nymph. She holds Odysseus captive for 7 years, hoping to marry him, and releases him only at Zeus’ order.

Circe Circe is the witch visited by Odysseus and his crew. She turns some of Odysseus’ crew into swine, and then reverses the spell and becomes Odysseus’ lover for a year.

Aeolus Master of the winds, he helps Odysseus get within viewing distance of Ithaca but abandons him, concluding that anyone so unlucky must be cursed.

Hermes Hermes is the son of Zeus. He is the fastest of the gods, and he serves as the gods’ messenger. Also, Hermes guides the souls of the dead down to the Underworld and protects traders, merchants and thieves.

Apollo Apollo is the god of prophesy, music and healing. Like most of his fellow Olympians, Apollo did not hesitate to intervene in human affairs. He helped Paris kill Achilles during the Trojan War.

MONSTERS: Polyphemus (a.k.a. Cyclops) One-eyed cannibal giant who traps Odysseus and a scouting party in his cave, and is blinded when they escape.

Scylla Monster Six-headed female sea monster

Charybdis a dangerous whirlpool personified as a female monster

Sirens Sea nymphs who sing songs that lure men to their deaths

Lotus Eaters Inhabitants of a land that is visited by Odysseus and his crew