Hero's Journey #9

In this stage, the hero is tempted (not necessarily by a woman— the “Temptress” symbolizes anything that tempts the hero to abandon their mission—desires, fears, doubts, material pleasures, or comfort) and longs to return to the comfort, ordinariness, and familiarity of their previous life.

Do we have the clarity to see where we're aiming and stay aligned with our true nature, or will we be swallowed up in the vortex of fears and limiting beliefs?

Even if we try to resist, though, life points in only one direction—forward.

This stage tests the hero’s integrity by placing easy gratification or other gains in their path. By refusing them, the hero proves to be true to heroic values and dedicated above all else to achieving the primary goal.

After escaping the land of the Laestrygonians (cannibalistic giants who destroyed most of his fleet), Odysseus and his remaining men land on Aeaea, Circe’s island.

They spot a beautiful palace deep in the woods, with wild animals—lions and wolves—calmly roaming the grounds. These creatures, once men, were transformed by Circe’s magic.

Odysseus sends a group of men, led by Eurylochus, to explore.

• Circe welcomes Odysseus’ men with a feast laced with a potion that makes them forget their homes and their purpose—a symbolic representation of indulgence and comfort that robs them of their will.
• After they eat, she touches them with her magic wand and transforms them into pigs.

Odysseus is the only one who remains unaffected.

Informed by Hermes, the messenger god, he drinks a magical herb that makes him immune to Circe’s powers. Impressed, Circe invites him to stay, and for a year, together with his men (who have regained their human form), he remains on Circe’s island, becoming her lover.

The Hero’s Journey is universal because we all face our own Circes (temptations of comfort) and Sirens (temptations of illusion). Understanding how these themes play out in real life can help us stay focused on our goals.

Where Are Your Circes & Sirens?

Ask yourself:

1. What’s my Circe? What comforts or distractions are keeping me from my bigger goals?
2. What’s my Siren? What illusions, ego traps, or false promises am I tempted by?
3. How can I “tie myself to the mast” to stay focused despite these temptations?

See you in the next one!

M