One of the reasons why Circe hates her divinity is that it separates her from others—people treat her with deference and fear instead of treating her as an equal . She prioritizes genuine connection over fear and homage, a preference that sets her apart from the other power-hungry gods. Meanwhile, Penelope has become a witch while Circe is away. Witchcraft, as Penelope says, requires “Will and work,” which speaks to how mortals must labor in order to achieve their goals and obtain power. Given that mortals are more accustomed to labor than gods are, witchcraft is perhaps better suited for mortals anyway. Additionally, Penelope’s teaching herself witchcraft indicates her desire to have power; as a woman in ancient Greece, she has very little power of her own. Now that she has the opportunity to acquire some, she puts in the necessary effort.