Apollo and Marsyas (Masterplots II: Poetry, Revised Edition)
At a glance:
- Author: Zbigniew Herbert
- First Published: 1961
- Type of Work: Meditation
- Genres: Poetry, Meditation
- Subjects: Mythology or myths, Music or musicians, Legends, Gods or goddesses, Greek or Roman times, Duels or dueling, Contests
The Poem
“Apollo and Marsyas” is a meditation or reflection on the meaning of an ancient Greek myth. According to the legendary story, Marsyas, a satyr—part man, part animal—challenges the god Apollo to a musical contest. For a mortal to challenge a deity is always dangerous. Not only will the god or goddess almost invariably win but, in victory, the deity often takes vengeance on the opponent as well. Apollo does win the competition, and he punishes Marsyas by hanging him from a tree and stripping off his skin.
Risking a contest with Apollo was foolhardy for...
[The entire page is 1606 words long]
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