Polyphemus is a character from Greek mythology, known as a giant cyclops. He is the son of Poseidon, the god of the sea, and is famous for his encounter with Odysseus in Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey. Polyphemus lives on an isolated island and is depicted as a one-eyed monster who tends to sheep and lives in a cave. In the story, Odysseus and his men become trapped in Polyphemus's cave. To escape, Odysseus devises a clever plan, blinding the cyclops with a sharpened stake while he sleeps. This act of cunning allows Odysseus and his men to flee, but it also angers Poseidon, leading to further challenges in their journey home.