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Prometheus has often been likened to the figure of Satan, particularly as depicted by Milton in Paradise Lost, where Satan's rebellion has political nuances. Students might explore the concept of heroism by comparing Satan to Milton's portrayal of the story. Another narrative, Samson Agonistes, tells of a proud character who endures suffering, gains humility and inner strength, and ultimately sacrifices himself for a seemingly noble cause.
Prometheus Bound delves into themes of law and justice, similar to those found in many of William Shakespeare's plays. For instance, Merchant of Venice examines the balance between justice and mercy, while Measure for Measure addresses these themes from the viewpoint of an ideal ruler.
In the nineteenth century, the myth of Prometheus gained immense popularity. Two notable retellings came from Mary Shelley and Percy Bysshe Shelley, a married couple. Mary Shelley's rendition, Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus, is hailed as a horror fiction masterpiece and has inspired numerous adaptations in theater and film. Drawing from his study of Greek literature and philosophy, Percy Shelley wrote what he envisioned as a continuation of Prometheus Bound, titled Prometheus Unbound. Many regard this verse composition as his greatest work.
Following the French Revolution, the rebellious Prometheus became associated with Napoleon. Romantic poets like Byron and Shelley composed poems centered on this theme. For those interested in history, numerous biographies detail the ascent of the Corsican from an artillery officer to the Emperor of France, with J. Christopher Herold's The Age of Napoleon being a recommended starting point. In the twentieth century, figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King embodied Promethean qualities, enduring personal hardships while fighting against oppression for the betterment of humanity.
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