Epicurean philosophy in The Lotos-Eaters

Epicureanism is a philosophical system founded on the teachings of Epicurus. It asserts that pleasure is the highest good. The pursuit of pleasure, according to Epicurean philosophy, involves leading a modest life and acquiring knowledge about the workings of the world and the boundaries of one’s desires. While Epicurean philosophy prioritizes mental satisfaction, it does not emphasize the fulfillment of sexual desires.

The primary aim of Epicurean philosophy is to alleviate worldly suffering and eliminate fear of both God and death. Followers of the Epicurean school assert that humans and gods are composed of different molecules, with gods created in a different manner that renders them invisible and immortal. Gods, as per this philosophy, are indifferent to human concerns, and therefore, there is no need to fear them. Epicurean philosophy rejects the notions of an afterlife and judgment. Central to Epicureanism is the significance of friendship in achieving a happy life. Additionally, Epicureans follow a vegetarian lifestyle, following the belief that one should refrain from causing harm to others.

“The Lotos-Eaters” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson reflects the Epicurean philosophy. Upon reaching the island of lotus eaters, Odysseus’ mariners consume the lotus, inducing a trance-like state.

They express a reluctance to engage in labor any longer. The sound of the waves resembles a “mourn and rave” from “far far away.” Their ability to articulate speech is impaired, and when conversing with fellow mariners, they sound like dead people.

The lotus and fruits served as drugs, inducing inactivity in humans. The “Lotus eaters,” a group of people using these drugs, became inactive. Similarly, upon consuming the lotus and fruits, the mariners experienced the same effects. Seated on the yellow sand of the island, they could barely comprehend their fellow mariners’ speech, only hearing the music of their heartbeats in their ears. Despite the allure of dreaming about their homes in Ithaca, the lotus made them weary of further wandering, and they preferred to linger on the island. A mariner, having consumed the lotus fruit, declares that he will “return no more,” prompting all the mariners to sing about their resolution to stay in the land of the Lotus-eaters.

This poem reflects the principles of Epicurean philosophy. Followers of Epicureanism advocate for a modest lifestyle and a vegetarian diet. In the poem, the mariners exhibit a lack of concern for life and are devoid of ambition. They simply desire to recline and savor the rhythmic music of their heartbeats. Their exclusive consumption of lotus flowers and fruits aligns with the tenets of Epicurean simplicity and pleasure.

Epicurean philosophy, in addition, seeks liberation from the fear of death and an afterlife. It encourages individuals to engage in work without dwelling on the consequences after death, emphasizing the importance of avoiding harm to others and fostering peaceful coexistence among friends. In contrast, the lotus eaters argue that exerting effort is futile, as everything in the world is destined for destruction one day.

Epicurean philosophy also says that gods are not concerned about human beings. So human beings need not worry about gods.

"In the hollow Lotos-land to live and lie reclined

On the hills like Gods together, careless of mankind.

For they lie beside their nectar, and the bolts are hurl'd

Far below them in the valleys, and the clouds are lightly curl'd

Round their golden houses, girdled with the gleaming world:

Where they smile in secret, looking over wasted lands,"

The preceding lines refer to gods who reside “on the hills” (Mount Olympus) and enjoy their nectar. They remain unconcerned about humanity, residing in their golden abode and smiling upon human beings.