A group of German tourists visit an island inhabited by Cyclopses. They want to see some concrete proof that the Cyclopses really are reformed characters. These terrible people-eating monsters are said to have become sensitive, artistic creatures who write poetry and delight in the joys of dance theater.

However, Mr. Petersen has made his own plans. The travel agent promised him that he could "do an Odysseus" by plying one of the monsters with wine before thrusting a burning wooden stake into its eye ­ robbing it of its sight.

Petersen bungles his attempt, and the inebriated Cyclops gobbles him up.

The other tourists are understandably keen to leave the island. They want to report the incident to the police and bring the offending Cyclops to justice.

Meanwhile, Mrs.Petersen is the only member of the group to succumb to the beauty of the Cyclopses' poetry. She decides to stay behind and get to grips with the finer points of boulder throwing. She is a fast learner, as the departing tourists find out to their peril as their boat sails away.