Sirens

In Greek mythology, the siren is a bird-woman of the water whose song is said to lure men. Their songs would wipe men's minds so the sailors would no longer be able to steer the ship, upon which time, it would crash into the rocky shores of the sirens' den. They are featured in several pieces of Greek literature including: The Odessey by Homer, Epitome by Apollodorus, and Argonautica by Apollonius of Rhodes.

The Dictionary of Mythology by J. A. Coleman (Arcturus Publishing, 2007) lists them as:

Siren

a monster, part woman, part seabird. 

They were originally winged beings but, when they were defeated by the Muses in a music competition, they lost their wings and took to the sea, living on the island of Anthemoessa, where their songs charmed the crews of passing ships and lured them into the rocks. 

Others say they were originally maidens attendant on Core who were changed into the form of sirens for failing to prevent Core's abduction by Hades. 

[...] They are usually depicted as birds with human faces.

Resources:

-The Wikipedia page

-Sirens in Greek Mythology

-Crystalinks: Sirens

-Sirens: A symbol of passion

Here is a fairly common myth that I, for one, haven't seen a lot of in paranormal romance. But perhaps I haven't been looking in the right places. Does anyone out there have any recommendations for reading about sirens in paranormal romance?

Next week: Mermaids, and an interview with Vivian Arend!

Clara.