Overview
The lecture covers Aeschylus’ Prometheus Bound, exploring its mythological context, central plot, characters, major themes, and key literary concepts.
Background & Context
- Aeschylus is a major Greek tragedian; Prometheus Bound is attributed to him (though debated).
- Prometheus, a Titan, aided Zeus against Cronos but later defied him by giving fire to humans.
- Zeus punished Prometheus for this act by chaining him to a remote cliff.
Main Characters
- Prometheus: the protagonist, a Titan punished for helping humanity.
- Zeus: ruler of the gods, enforces Prometheus’ punishment.
- Hephaestus: god ordered to chain Prometheus.
- Power and Force: Zeus’ agents executing the punishment.
- Chorus: daughters of Oceanus, sympathize with Prometheus.
- Oceanus: Prometheus’ kin, offers advice.
- Io: mortal woman suffering due to Zeus and Hera, encounters Prometheus.
- Hermes: Zeus’ messenger, demands Prometheus reveal a prophecy.
Plot Summary
- Hephaestus, Power, and Force chain Prometheus in Scythia under Zeus’ orders.
- Prometheus laments his fate, revealing he gave fire and knowledge to humanity.
- The Chorus and Oceanus visit; Prometheus discusses the tyranny of Zeus and his own foresight.
- Io arrives, recounts her suffering from Hera’s wrath, and Prometheus tells her future wanderings.
- Prometheus prophesies Zeus’ downfall unless freed, but refuses to divulge details to Hermes.
- Zeus threatens further torment unless Prometheus complies; Prometheus remains defiant.
Themes & Analysis
- Conflict between authority (Zeus) and defiance (Prometheus).
- The tension between fate (Necessity) and free will.
- Suffering endured for helping others; Prometheus as a benefactor of humanity.
- The consequences of power, tyranny, and loyalty among gods.
- The role of prophecy and foreknowledge—Prometheus’ secret is essential to Zeus’ future.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Titan — Pre-Olympian god, older generation than Zeus.
- Necessity (Ananke) — Personification of fate or inevitable destiny.
- Chorus — Group of characters commenting on the action, representing public or moral viewpoint.
- Fates/Furies — Goddesses controlling destiny and vengeance.
- Io — Mortal woman transformed and persecuted due to Zeus’ desire.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review detailed plot points and character motivations for comprehension.
- Prepare a comparison of themes: tyranny, fate vs. free will, and heroism.
- Read any assigned selections from the play for deeper analysis.
- Reflect on how Prometheus’ defiance relates to concepts of justice and resistance.