Beaching on an island, Odysseus sends out a scouting crew, led by Eurylochus. They encounter the witch Circe, who transforms all who enter her palace into pigs. Eurylochus escapes back to Odysseus, but they argue over whether they should rescue the men or leave, with Odysseus ultimately deciding to confront Circe at her palace. Hermes, herald and messenger of the gods, appears to Odysseus and gives him the magical moly herb, granting him even footing against Circe.
Upon reaching the palace, Circe and Odysseus battle and Odysseus gains the upper hand. Switching tactics, Circe tries to seduce Odysseus, but thinking of his wife, Penelope, he rejects her advances. Inspired by his loyalty and, ultimately, hoping to create a kinder world, Circe agrees to let his men go and directs them to the Underworld, where they can evade Poseidon and seek further advice from the spirit of the blind prophet Tiresias.
