Jason and the Golden Fleece: A Summary

Setting

• Location: Colchis, in an enchanted garden.
• Artifact: The Golden Fleece hung on the tallest oak, guarded by a sleepless dragon.

Main Characters

• Jason: Leader of the Argonauts, seeking the Golden Fleece to reclaim his throne.
• King Aetes: Ruler of Colchis, owner of the Golden Fleece, sets tasks for Jason.
• Medea: Princess of Colchis, priestess of Hecate; falls in love with Jason.
• Argonauts: Jason's crew, mostly left behind to rest.

The Challenge

1. Initial Approach: Jason approaches King Aetes to request the Golden Fleece.
2. King's Reaction: Aetes is enraged and sets three tasks for Jason.

Medea’s Role

• Influence: Encouraged by Jason's guardians from Mount Olympus to fall in love with him.
• Assistance: Provides Jason with mystical aids to help him in the tasks.

Tasks and Assistance

Task 1: The Oxen

• Objective: Plow a field guarded by oxen.
• Medea's Aid: Fireproof ointment to protect Jason from the flames.

Task 2: The Warriors

• Objective: Plant serpent’s teeth, which turn into warriors.
• Medea's Aid: A stone to cause chaos among the warriors, allowing Jason to pass.

Task 3: The Dragon

• Objective: Retrieve the fleece guarded by a dragon.
• Medea's Aid: A potion to put the dragon to sleep, aided by incantations.

The Escape

• Success: Jason retrieves the fleece and flees with Medea.
• King's Reaction: Furious, he sends his son Absortus to retrieve them.

Tragic Consequences

• Absortus' Death: Jason kills Absortus to delay pursuit.
• Deception: Medea scatters Absortus' body parts to distract their father.

Aftermath

• Gods' Displeasure: Jason's act angers the gods.
• Punishment: Hostile winds push the Argo to Circe's island.
• Plea for Absolution: Medea begs Circe, her aunt, for forgiveness.

Conclusion

• Moral: The pursuit of power and love can lead to tragic actions and divine retribution.
• Status: Jason's victory is tainted by murder, leaving a stain on his honor.