The science behind the myth: Homer's "Odyssey" - Matt Kaplan
2,825,225 Views
32,613 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Homer’s "Odyssey" recounts the adventures of the Greek hero Odysseus during his journey home from the Trojan War. Though some parts may be based on real events, the encounters with monsters, giants and magicians are considered to be complete fiction. But might there be more to these myths than meets the eye? Matt Kaplan explains why there might be more reality behind the "Odyssey" than many realize.
During his long journey Odysseus visits another dangerous island where a special fruit grows. Called the lotus, anyone who tastes just a bit of its delicious flesh perpetually wants more. Indeed, the effect is so strong that lotus eaters never again leave the island once they start feeding. Now, unlike the Circe story, we do not have any evidence supporting the idea of a Greek island with fruit similar to the lotus growing on it. But that does not mean that the idea of the lotus came entirely out of thin air. Can you propose any explanations for where the lotus concept might have come from?
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Matt Kaplan
- Animator Mike Schell
- Script Editor Alex Gendler
- Narrator Matt Kaplan
