Calypso

In Greek mythology, Calypso was a nymph who captured Odysseus for many years, before he finally managed to escape. She lived on the mythical island of Ogygia.

Calypso falls in Love

According to Homer's epic, the Odyssey, when Odysseus landed on Ogygia, Calypso fell in love with him and decided to keep him as her immortal husband. With her captivating singing, she managed to detain the Greek hero for several years. However, the time came when Odysseus' longing for Penelope, his wife, grew so strong that he could bear it no more.

Athena helps Odysseus

Wanting to tell Calypso, Odysseus instead told goddess Athena of his misery. Athena, being the protector of Odysseus, asked from Zeus to demand the release of the hero. So it happened.

Calypso frees Odysseus

Calypso, angry at first, complained about how gods did not want goddesses to have affairs with mortals; however, she eventually backed out. Giving Odysseus wine, bread and a raft, she bade him farewell.