Overview
This lecture reviews the myth of Daedalus and Icarus, focusing on ambition, hubris, and the dangers of defying natural and divine boundaries in ancient Greek mythology.
Background of Daedalus
- Daedalus was a renowned Athenian inventor, craftsman, and sculptor.
- He invented carpentry tools, created lifelike sculptures, and designed the first bathhouse and dance floor.
- Motivated by jealousy, Daedalus killed his more talented nephew and was banished from Athens.
- He was welcomed to Crete by King Minos and served as the palace’s technical advisor.
Innovations and Transgressions
- In Crete, Daedalus invented animated toys and the ship’s sail and mast.
- King Minos's wife, Pasiphaë, cursed by Poseidon, enlisted Daedalus to help her pursue a romantic desire for a bull.
- Daedalus built a convincing wooden cow, enabling Pasiphaë to conceive the minotaur.
Punishments and the Labyrinth
- King Minos punished Daedalus for his role in creating the minotaur by forcing him to construct an inescapable labyrinth.
- Afterward, Daedalus and his son Icarus were imprisoned in a tall tower on Crete.
The Escape and the Fall of Icarus
- Daedalus crafted wings from feathers and wax for himself and Icarus to escape.
- Daedalus warned Icarus not to fly too close to the sun (which would melt the wax) or too close to the sea (which would dampen the wings).
- Overcome by exhilaration, Icarus flew too high, the wax melted, and he fell into the sea and died.
Lessons and Themes
- Both Daedalus and Icarus suffered consequences for overreaching human limits and defying moderation.
- The myth illustrates the concept of hubris (excessive pride) and the strict division between gods and mortals in Greek mythology.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Daedalus — A legendary inventor and craftsman in Greek mythology.
- Icarus — Son of Daedalus, known for his fatal flight too close to the sun.
- Hubris — Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to downfall.
- Labyrinth — A complex, inescapable maze built to contain the minotaur.
- Minotaur — A mythical creature that is half-human, half-bull.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the myth and reflect on examples of hubris in other stories or history.
- Prepare to discuss the themes of moderation and over-ambition in class.