In Greek mythology, the earliest mention of one practicing the art of magic can be found in The Odyssey, written in the late 8th century BC and attributed to Homer. It is Circe (Kirke), the Titan minor goddess, who has the distinction of being the first to use magic as a way to control the secret forces of the world.

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Circe - Greek Sorceress And Goddess

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Some scholars believe that the "holy herb, moly" that Odyseuss took to ward off Circe's spells, was a plant called Snowdrop.

Snowdrop is in the botany group of Circaea, which are plants belonging to the "enchanter's nightshade" genus named from Circe.

Yet another fascinating story. I love these mythical tales. Thanks for sharing it with us, Phyllis!

Gosh, Phyllis, I've learned a lot here, as I had only known the story from the Odyssey.

But I'd never come across The Telegony. What a story - especially with Circe and Penelope ending up with toy boys.

And although I've heard the expression "Holy moly!" I didn't know of its ancient origins.

Ha ha! I never realized that, Mona. Toy boys!!!! They must have been pretty special women to catch such young men.

I also had never known about how the term "holy moly" came into being.

I am happy you enjoyed the article. One of my major goals in writing articles for BellaOnline is to hopefully teach something new to my readers. I am glad I was able to do that for you.

Thank you so much, Mona, for reading and commenting. I appreciate that.