Lecture Notes: "The House of Asterion" by Jorge Luis Borges

Introduction

• Presenter: Ella
• Series: 100 Stories Deep
• Story: The House of Asterion by Jorge Luis Borges
• Context: Retelling of the Theseus and the Minotaur myth from the Minotaur’s perspective.

Overview of the Original Myth

• Setting: Ancient Greek mythology
• Plot:
  • The Minotaur, half bull, half man, is kept in a labyrinth by the King of Crete.
  • Every nine years, 14 Athenian youths are sacrificed to the Minotaur.
  • Theseus, with Ariadne’s help, kills the Minotaur.

The House of Asterion – Story Details

• Perspective: From the Minotaur, named Asterion.
• Quotes: Reference to Apollodorus, Bibliotheca.
• Key Themes:
  • Isolation: Asterion describes his solitude and open labyrinth.
  • Misunderstanding: Accused of arrogance and madness, but views himself differently.
  • Freedom: No locked doors in his labyrinth; chooses not to leave due to fear of people.
  • Unique Identity: Describes himself as unique and not part of the populace.
  • Imagination & Play: Engages in games and imagines another Asterion visiting.

Asterion’s Reflections

• Infinite Labyrinth: His house is boundless, likened to the world.
• Repetition: Everything in the house repeats, yet the sun and himself are unique.
• Role of Redeemer: Awaits a redeemer to free him; prophecy of being released from his loneliness.

Story Conclusion

• Theseus’ Perspective: Brief mention of Theseus killing the Minotaur with little resistance.

Themes and Reflections

• Perspective: Highlights the importance of understanding multiple perspectives.
• Interpretation: Challenges the traditional narrative of the Minotaur as the antagonist.
• Reflection Questions:
  1. Historical parallels to the story’s themes?
  2. How does the Minotaur’s perspective change your understanding?
  3. Exercise: Rewrite a myth from an alternative perspective.

Closing Remarks

• Call to Action: Subscribe for more stories in the series.
• Engagement: Encourage comments and further discussion.