ROME: Journeying to the Underworld Flashcards
Who was Orpheus
Son of either Thracian King Oeagrus or Apollo, his mother was the muse Calliope, who taught him to sing. Apollo taught him the lyre.
What were Orpheus’ powers?
His singing could enchant anyone and even move stones and trees to tears; a comrade to Jason on his quest, he saved the crew from the Sirens.
Whom did Orpheus fall in love with?
After his journey with Jason he returned home and fell in love with Euridike.
What were the ill omens at Orpheus’ wedding?
Orpheus called Hymen to officiate over the wedding but he did not speak the proper words and his torch kept going out - foreshadowing the death of Eurydice who was bitten by a venomous snake.
How does Orpheus get to the Underworld?
He goes through the gates of Taenarus to Styx.
He plays his lyre and appeals to Pluto and Prosperine (Hades and Persephone in Gk)
What was the effect of Orpheus’ musical plea?
The spirits wept.
Tantalus stopped reaching for the ever-retreating water.
Ixion’s wheel stopped.
The vultures did not pick at Tityus’ liver … etc., the Furies were wet with tears.
What was the condition that Orpheus had to abide by to allow Eurydice to return to the world?
Don’t look back.
