This exhibition is the first at Porkopolis.org to combine art and poetry into a celebration of the the pig. These artists and poets have investigated some of the mysteries of Circe – a goddess, a mistress and a pragmatic and sensual woman searching for a proper lover.
…then instantly She touched them with a wand and shut them up In styes, transformed to swine in head and voice, Bristles and shape, though still the human mind Remained in them.
— The Odyssey of Homer, translated by William Cullen Bryant, (1871).
Why that transformation of men to pigs? Why the assortment of lovers and courtiers in swinish form, dazed and bewildered with their newly implanted blood, yet retaining their human recollections?
Here are eight centuries of paintings and poetry from Medieval times to the present. In literature and art, Circe has probably generated more reaction and replication than any other character in Homer’s Odyssey.
This is a presentation for enjoyment, and perhaps a stepping stone into the timeless vagaries and inconsistencies of amorous relationships. Please enjoy and root on in whichever direction this fine poetry and art compel you.
Thank you for visiting, and please lust safely,
— Dan Schultz, living the life of a swineherd
as editor and curator at Porkopolis.org
Editor’s Note:
See something amiss? Know some poet or poem I did not include? Please contact me with corrections or suggestions. I really do want to get this right. Thank you!
