Are some of the fantastical elements in Homer’s Odyssey actually based on hallucinations caused by plant-based psychedelics?
Homer’s “Odyssey” recounts the adventures of the Greek hero Odysseus during his journey home from the Trojan War. Though some parts may be based on real events, the encounters with monsters, giants and magicians are considered to be complete fiction. But might there be more to these myths than meets the eye? Matt Kaplan explains why there might be more reality behind the “Odyssey” than many realize.
To learn more about the use of shamanic plants in ancient cultures around the world, grab a copy of Paul Devereux’s wonderful book The Long Trip: A Prehistory of Psychedelia (available from Amazon US and Amazon UK).
