The characters of Greek mythology have multiple interpretations. Among these characters are the dangerous but beautiful Sirens, bird-women who sit on a cliff singing haunting songs that captivate the minds of innocent travelers and lure them to their deaths. In Homer's Odyssey and Margaret Atwood's “Song of the Sirens,” both poets provide different representations of the Sirens. Homer depicts the Sirens as compelling to make men heroes, while Atwood portrays them as unpleasant and pathetic so he can demonstrate that men are foolish and arrogant using imagery, diction, and point of view. Homer describes the Sirens as intriguing and desirable because he considers Odysseus valiant. Homer describes Odysseus as “'the heart within [throbs] to listen longer,'” suggesting the seductive power of the Sirens (20). The effect of his heartbeat confirms that Odysseus desires to be with the Sirens, forging the image of a man struggling against his will to be close to a beautiful temptress. This implies that the Sirens are irresistible and cunning because they are able to trick men into falling in love with just one song. Odysseus longs to hear the Siren's magical song and stay alive, so he asks his men to "physically bind him faster with a galling rope" (24). The immense effect the Sirens have on him is great, and the fact that the rope irritates his skin illustrates the effort Odysseus is making to be with the Sirens. During this particular scene, Odysseus attempts to join the Sirens, without realizing the terrible consequences. Temptresses are so “enchanting” and no man can resist their beauty (19). They are so attractive that they have the ability to attract innocent men and look at them... middle of paper... women and cannot control their selfish ways. Homer portrays the Sirens as beautiful while Atwood considers them ugly. Using imagery, diction, and point of view, Homer and Atwood determine whether or not the men are intelligent and whether the Sirens are compelling or simply repulsive. The significance of the comparison between these two pieces is that the reader can see the authors' two very different interpretations of the role of men and women in their destiny. The representation of women has changed enormously over time. In the past, women were accused of ruining men and being temptresses, but now they hold high positions of power and can vote. Comparing these two pieces provides insight into how to resolve the never-ending “battle of the sexes.” The answer is to compromise. Homer and Atwood's portrayal of the Sirens demonstrates that everyone has their own interpretation.