Aeolus
Keeper of the winds, who gives Odysseus a bag containing the contrary gales.
Overview
In Odyssey Book 10, Aeolus governs the winds from a floating island and entertains Odysseus for a month. He binds every contrary wind in an ox-hide bag and leaves only the west wind free to carry the fleet toward Ithaca. The gift nearly succeeds until the crew mistakes the bag for concealed treasure and opens it. When the storm drives them back, Aeolus takes the failed return as a sign that Odysseus is hated by the gods and refuses a second departure. His episode therefore joins supernatural assistance to a human failure of trust and judgement.
Key facts
Binding the contrary winds
Odyssey Book 10Aeolus confines the blustering winds in an ox-hide bag secured aboard ship and leaves the west wind to carry the homeward voyage.
Refusing the second appeal
After the released winds drive the fleet back, he concludes that the gods oppose the voyage and orders Odysseus away.
Relationships
- Odysseusgrants winds
Aeolus binds the contrary winds, bringing the fleet almost to Ithaca.
Story appearances
- The Odyssey HomecomingGiver of the wind bag
Aeolus binds the contrary winds and brings Odysseus within sight of home.
Ancient sources
MythWeave distinguishes ancient-source evidence from later adaptations and modern interpretation.