In "The Frogs," Bacchus, the god of wine, endeavors to venture into the underworld with his ever-complaining servant, Xanthias. Their journey is fraught with amusing mishaps and challenges, all sparked by Bacchus's desire to meet deceased playwrights. The tale humorously explores themes of artistic merit and the trials of divine beings.

The Journey Begins

Determined to visit the realm of the dead, Bacchus sets off with his burdened slave, Xanthias. Their destination requires consulting Hercules, from whom Bacchus hopes to receive directions. Xanthias, despite being comfortably perched on a donkey, grumbles incessantly about his load until Bacchus, losing patience, cheekily suggests that perhaps Xanthias would prefer to carry the donkey instead.

A Divine Consultation

Upon reaching Hercules, Bacchus inquires how best to enter the underworld. Hercules jests that dying might be the simplest way, but Bacchus insists on visiting while still alive. His goal is to converse with the legendary playwrights, notably Euripides, since critics claim that all the good ones have passed on. Hercules recommends he settle for the living playwrights, but Bacchus is resolute, dismissing them all as mediocre.

The Crossing of Acheron

Reaching the River Acheron, they encounter Charon, the ferryman. Charon agrees to take Bacchus across but insists he must do the rowing himself. Xanthias, having dishonored himself by not aiding in a naval battle, is forced to walk along the riverbank. He feebly blames his sore eyes, but Charon is unsympathetic to his excuse.

Frogs and Laughter

As they converse with Charon, a chorus of frogs begins to croak loudly, mocking Bacchus's efforts much like a rowdy theater audience. Bacchus's laboring at the oars results in a strained back, which the frogs find quite entertaining, adding a layer of absurd humor to their journey.

A Monstrous Encounter

After paying Charon, Bacchus reunites with Xanthias on the other side. They soon encounter a terrifying monster, which Bacchus deftly avoids until it transforms into a beautiful woman. Their route to Pluto’s domain proves challenging, with Xanthias still bemoaning his heavy burdens.

Herculean Mistakes

At Hades' gates, Bacchus foolishly masquerades as Hercules, a blunder since Aeacus, the gatekeeper, is incensed over the theft of Cerberus, the watchdog. Faced with Aeacus's threats of vengeance, Bacchus admits his true identity. Xanthias labels him a coward, a charge Bacchus fervently denies.

Role Reversals

In a bid to escape Aeacus's wrath, Bacchus and Xanthias swap roles. Xanthias assumes Hercules's identity while Bacchus takes on his servant's duties. However, when Proserpine’s servants approach with lavish hospitality for Xanthias, Bacchus demands his rightful position back.

Disturbing Justice

Aeacus returns, intent on administering punishment, and Xanthias mischievously suggests Bacchus for the beating. Bacchus protests, citing his divine status, but Xanthias retorts that an immortal should endure such trials without concern. Aeacus decides on a fair solution: both should be equally beaten until Pluto and Proserpine can determine the true deity. Aeacus remarks on Bacchus's gentlemanly demeanor, with Xanthias concurring, noting Bacchus's penchant for indulgence.

Playwrights in Conflict

Inside Pluto’s domain, Bacchus finds Aeschylus and Euripides locked in an artistic feud. It's a rule in Hades that the most renowned in any discipline dines with Pluto until surpassed by another's arrival. Aeschylus currently holds this honor, which Euripides now contests.

A Dramatic Verdict

Aeacus declares that the dramatists will measure their work against each other, using precise methods to determine superiority. Their fierce debate sees each blaming the other for various artistic shortcomings. Aeschylus laments that his plays remain on earth, whereas Euripides’s have accompanied him to Hades, aiding him in the argument.

The Judge's Dilemma

Bacchus volunteers to adjudicate, prompting the dramatists to passionately defend their legacies. Their heated quarrel is only halted by Pluto’s arrival, who insists Bacchus choose a victor to bring peace to their eternal squabble. Despite Euripides initially appearing weaker in the contest, Bacchus wisely abstains from judgment to avoid incurring wrath.

The Final Decision

Ultimately, Bacchus chooses Aeschylus, leaving Euripides to grumble over the decision. Pluto consoles Euripides, assuring him of fine sustenance in the underworld, whereas Aeschylus must return with Bacchus to the living world, where he is fated to labor against the ignorance and vice that plague humanity.