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Nov 8, 1200
Description
The Lotus-Eaters are characters from The Odyssey by Homer. They are a group of people who live on an island and consume the lotus plant, which causes them to fall into a state of peaceful forgetfulness. When Odysseus and his men encounter the Lotus-Eaters, some of his crew eat the plant, lose their desire to return home, and want to stay on the island forever. Odysseus must force them back to the ship to continue their journey. The Lotus-Eaters represent the dangers of escapism. -
Nov 8, 1200
Lotus Eaters Analysis
The Lotus-Eaters represent the allure of abandoning responsibilities and indulging in a carefree existence. Odysseus’s crew members, after eating the lotus, lose their desire to return home and forget their duties, showing how easy it is to be seduced by comfort and distraction. Odysseus’s response to his crew’s lapse is to act decisively, forcing them back to the ship. This act illustrates his sense of duty as a leader and his understanding that to reach their ultimate goal.