Odysseus and Calypso

The Odyssey

The complex relationship between Odysseus and the nymph Calypso, who holds him captive.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Calypso's CaptivityCalypso's Captivity
The Nymph's Love Calypso's Offer Calypso wants to marry Odysseus and make him immortal. Odysseus's Refusal Odysseus rejects her offer, longing for Penelope. The Tension Their relationship is one of captor and captive, but also of affection.
The ReleaseThe Release
Calypso Lets Go Hermes' Command Zeus orders Calypso to release Odysseus. Calypso's Reluctance She is angry but obeys. She helps Odysseus build a raft. The Farewell They part with mixed feelings. Calypso wishes him well but is sad.
Seven years on Ogygia
After Hermes' message