Ulysses and the Sirens

"Ulysses and the Sirens" is a captivating oil painting completed in 1909 by Herbert James Draper. This remarkable piece measures 69.25 × 84 inches and is proudly displayed at the Ferens Art Gallery in Kingston upon Hull, England. The gallery acquired the painting directly from Draper in 1910 for £600. Draper also produced a smaller version of this work, which is housed at the Leeds Art Gallery.

The painting vividly brings to life a famous scene from Homer's epic poem, "The Odyssey." It captures the moment when Ulysses (or Odysseus) is lured by the enchanting voices of the Sirens. However, Draper’s interpretation takes a creative twist. Instead of depicting the Sirens as the monstrous creatures often described in Greek mythology, he portrays them as alluring mermaids, seductively trying to ensnare Ulysses. This artistic choice reflects the Victorian and Edwardian fascination with beauty and fantasy, diverging from the traditional, more ominous depictions of the Sirens.

Interestingly, Draper's painting has influenced realms beyond the art world. It inspired Jon Elster's 1979 book on rationality and precommitment, which borrows its title, "Ulysses and the Sirens" from Draper’s evocative artwork.