Far out in the sea lay an island, on whose rocky edge lived three Sirens, sisters famed for their magical song. Half human and half bird, they sat among flowers, singing with voices that stirred the hearts of men. Their enchanting melodies were so irresistible that ships were lured toward the island only to be dashed to pieces on the rocks. No sailor or vessel was known to pass the Island of the Sirens without meeting disaster.
Following the advice of the goddess Circe, Odysseus made careful preparations. Before his ship came within hearing range of the song, he had himself bound to the mast. He ordered his crew to plug their ears with wax and commanded them to ignore all his orders and gestures while passing the fatal island.
Soon the rocky island came into view, and the captivating song reached Odysseus. So moved was he by the music that he struggled desperately to break free, shouting at his men to steer toward the lush, flowery meadow where the sisters sang. But no one heeded him. The sailors rowed steadfastly onward until the song faded into the distance. Only then did his companions release him and remove the wax from their ears. For once, the Sirens' song had failed. Parthenope, the eldest sister, loved Odysseus so deeply that she cast herself into the sea after his ship had passed.