The well-known Greek myth begins with Jason's uncle Pelias, who takes the throne by force. Jason grows up and develops a vengeful nature. He returns to the kingdom where Pelias greets him in a friendly manner, but is secretly cautious after hearing an oracle that said to be wary of a man wearing only one sandal (which Jason lost along the way). Because Pelias feels threatened by Jason, he sends him on a mission to retrieve the golden fleece. Jason sets off with his team of Argonauts and faces many obstacles along the way. He conquers the fierce women of Lemnos, the gigantic rock formation Symplegades, fire-breathing bulls, and other death-defying opposers, all with the help of Hera and Aphrodite, who recruit Cupid. They convince him to make Medea fall in love with Jason and keep him safe on his journey. Medea charms the serpent, enabling Jason to retrieve the fleece. She even kills her own brother, Apsyrtus, to ensure Jason's return home. The two have children, but Jason leaves to be with the daughter of the king of Corinth. Infuriated by this betrayal, Medea creates a magic robe that consumes Jason's new wife in flames. She also kills her own children, and escapes on a magic carpet.
Love and revenge are still profound topics in today's literature, our versions are just much, much different. In the 21st century, people seek revenge through subtweets, rumors, and the manipulation of others (rebounds). All humans have emotions and we use these against each other, especially jealousy, anger, and hurt. These feelings have existed for centuries as well as resulting rivalries, heart breaks, etc. Revenge is not a new idea, but we have new ways of seeking it out.
I like your connection to modern times. All the social media we use is truly an outlet to one's feelings, and it has caused tremendous controversy with cyber bullying and what not.
ReplyDelete