he seductress is one of the oldest archetypes in literature: She tempts a powerful figure with the allure of pleasure, beauty, or wisdom, and that’s what Homer is showing here.

He paints a picture of Odysseus as a respected and powerful figure who’s on a grand voyage. We know from the rest of the play that he’s sailing home to reclaim the throne and reunite with his family.

Enter the Sirens. They entice Odysseus with their sweet music, lips, charm, and wisdom. In the case of the Sirens, their beauty is real, but their promises are deceptive. Odysseus fears that he won’t be able to resist the Siren songs, which would compromise the mission.

Throughout literature, seducers prey on the deadly sins of greed, gluttony, and especially lust. People know they’re destructive, but desire overrides their rational judgment. And, in life, the trappings of seduction are everywhere. Think of all the people who’ve succumbed to an affair or gone broke splurging on luxuries that promised satisfaction, but didn’t ultimately cure the hole in their heart.

Want to create a seductress in your writing? Do what Homer does. Start with a character like Odysseus, who’s on a noble journey. Then, present them with something or someone who takes advantage of their appetite and entices their desires.