This essay was written for a classical mythology class comparing modern-day media with historical themes represented in Greek mythology.
Direct overlap exists between the creation of the Polyjuice potion and the requirements of Phaedra’s Nurse’s love potion: “I have love potions in the house... we need a lock of hair, a piece of clothing from the one you desire” (Euripides, Hippolytus 510-514). Both require the hair of the subject, which is vital to the outcome of the potion, although Euripides’ love potion additionally calls for clothing. This suggests a minimal sacrifice from the object of the potion, although they are also the ones to feel the effects of such enchantments. However, the nurse is trying to ease Phaedra’s suffering, whereas Harry, Ron, and Hermione are using their potion under deception, to gather information from an enemy, a rather selfish action.
