Definition: Sirens are seductive female creatures in Greek mythology. The Sirens are probably best known for their part in the Odyssey where their song lured sailors to their death. Odysseus ordered his crew to plug their ears with wax (on the advice of Circe) so as not to be lured by the Sirens' song. In the story of the Argonauts, Orpheus sang sweetly enough to keep the men from succumbing to the Sirens.
There were two or three Sirens. They were the daughters of the sea god Phorcys or the river god Achelous.
In art, the Sirens are depicted as part human and part bird, as are also the harpies.
There were two or three Sirens. They were the daughters of the sea god Phorcys or the river god Achelous.
In art, the Sirens are depicted as part human and part bird, as are also the harpies.
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Something described as a "siren song" is almost irresistible.
