Reading Notes: Ovid's Metamorphoses (Books 8-10) Part A

(Image Information: Image by jimmy teoh)

Daedalus and Icarus

King Minos resolved the issue of the half-man and half-bull son from his wife's affair by placing hiding the Minotaur away in a labyrinth with blind passageways. Daedalus designed the maze and wasn't sure how to find the entrance. However, Theseus with help from Princess Ariadne, daughter of Minos, found the entrance and defeated the Minotaur. After going went to Dia, Theseus abandoned Ariadne on the shore, but she was comforted by the god Bacchus.

While imprisoned on Crete, Daedalus along with his son, Icarus, made himself bird's wings by attaching beeswax to bird feathers. However, Icarus unknowingly hindered the wings. Daedalus told Icarus not too high because the sun will scorch the wings and travel between low and high.

As he placed the wings on his son, Daedalus kissed his son for unknowingly the last time. Then they both took to the air.

Soon, Icarus abandoned his father's guidance and flew near the sun. The sun melted the beeswax weakening the wings causing Icarus to fall into the deep ocean. 

The character of Daedalus was more assertive and active. I enjoyed how he was a caring father. I've always liked the story Icarus because its a cautionary tale.

Achelous

Achelous is retelling the story of how he fought and lost a battle with Hercules. Both men wanted to marry Deianira. They argue about who's accomplishments and god-hood were better. Then Hercules challenges Achelous to wrestle. While loosing the fight, Achelous turned into a snake, but Hercules only laughed and said he defeated a stronger monster called the Hydra. Achelous lost. 

This story was ultimately short. I enjoyed how Achelous was recounting a moment of his life. He is active and tries his best to win the wrestling match with Hercules. However, I would've like to have seen more Hercules the antagonist of this story.

The Shirt of Nessus

Nessus was a centaur who was infatuated with Deianira. When Hercules is trying to find a way for his bride, Deianira, to cross a body of water Nessus comes in disguise as a friend. Nessus attempts to carry off and rape Deianira. However, Hercules shoots a poisonous arrow in his chest. Dying, Nessus gifts her with his blood-soaked tunic. Years later, Deianira believes her husband is an adulteress and weeps. Longing for her husband's love, Deianira gave Hercules the tunic, which he wears.

The Death of Hercules

While he prayed, Hercules was affected by the venom, but he tried to bare the pain. As he tears the tunic pieces of his flesh come off. He cries out to the gods and asks if this is what's to become of him. Hercules caught sight of the Lichas, blamed him, and flung him into the water known as the Euboean Gulf. The gos feared for Hercules. Jupiter spoke comforting words to his son. Jupiter grants him a new body and allows him to join the heavens.

Bibliography: 

Ovid, Daedalus and Icarus translated by Tony Kline(2000)

Ovid, Achelous translated by Tony Kline(2000)

Ovid, The Shirt of Nessus translated by Tony Kline(2000)

Ovid, Death of Hercules translated by Tony Kline(2000)