Chapter Introduction

After studying this section of the chapter you should be able to identify the cause, according to Hesiod, of mankind's deterioration.

Humanity's Alienation from the Gods: Prometheus and Fire

• recount the many trials and tribulations in the relationship between Prometheus (protector/benefactor of mankind) and Zeus (divine ruler of the universe).
• discuss the significance of Prometheus's gift to mankind, and explain why this gift angers Zeus.
• explain how the creation of Pandora reflects "the unresolved tension between male and female."

Humanity's Decline: Pandora and Eve

After studying this section of the chapter you should be able to discuss the many similarities (both narrative and ideological) between the mythical accounts of Pandora and Eve.

Humanity's Alienation from Nature as the Price of Civilization

• discuss Pandora and Eve as agents who sever humanity's ties to nature.
• relate the work of Hesiod to the earlier Mesopotamian myths of Gilgamesh and Enkidu.

The Two Natures of Strife

After studying this section of the chapter you should be able to discuss the two manifestations of Strife (Eris) in the universe.

The Five Ages of Humanity

After studying this section of the chapter you should be able to trace man's evolution through Hesiod's five ages: the Age of Gold, the Age of Bronze, the Age of Heroes, and the Age of Iron.

Aeschylus's Transformation of the Prometheus Myth and Humanity's Salvation

• discuss Aeschylus's revision of Hesiod's Prometheus myth, paying special attention to their differing portrayals of Zeus's reconciliation with Prometheus.
• discuss how Prometheus's motives spark the beginning of Zeus's evolution in Prometheus Bound.

Complexities and Functions of the Prometheus Myth

• describe the dual roles of both Zeus and Prometheus.
• discuss Prometheus as a reflection of the Greek attitude toward individualism.
• explain how Prometheus Bound juxtaposes two plausible versions of "right."
• discuss Prometheus as the male counterpart to Gaea, Themis, and Athene.
• explain how Prometheus's "extreme ethical autonomy" might be understood as hubris.
• discuss the thematic importance of Io's plight in Aeschylus's revision of the Prometheus myth.

Prometheus and Deucalion's Flood

• explain how Prometheus undermines Zeus's plan to eliminate humanity.
• identify the Mesopotamian origins of the Greek myth of Deucalion's flood.