Circe Changing Ulysses' Men to Swine 1606

Editor: This is Antonio Tempesta's "Circe Changing Ulysses' Men to Swine," a small etching. It feels incredibly theatrical, but also a little disturbing. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: The transformation itself is a potent symbol. Notice how Tempesta retains elements of their former humanity – armor, posture – even as they become swine. What does this suggest about the relationship between outward appearance and inner nature? Editor: It’s like the armor is a façade, and Circe is revealing their true, base selves? Curator: Precisely! The cup she offers isn't just a potion; it's a test, a revelation. Consider the enduring power of this image. It speaks to our anxieties about control, bestial urges, and the deceptive nature of appearances, doesn’t it? Editor: Absolutely. I'll definitely look at classical stories differently now. Curator: Indeed. It's a stark reminder that images carry layered meanings across time.