What effect did orpheus music have on people and gods give two examples

Orpheus' songs could captivate every living being, including mortals and deities. His music exercised a powerful hold over people. On his journey into the underworld to bring back his wife, his playing moved Hades and Persephone to pity. While sailing with the Argonauts, he kept them safe from the Sirens by producing music that was louder and even more spellbinding.

Orpheus's songs have the power to beguile both mortals and immortals. One passage describes how the creatures of the woods fall quiet and the nymphs are captivated by his tune, with Eurydice singled out among them. That same musical force is on display at the gate of the Underworld: although Charon initially insists he will not ferry any living passenger, Orpheus begins to play and "when Charon heard it, he plied fast his oar, / Orpheus he took on board, and pushed from shore. / Then Charon ferried him across the stream." The boatman is moved by the music just as the forest and its inhabitants were.

Additional Details

The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice

Orpheus falls deeply in love with Eurydice, who dies from a snakebite on their wedding day. Grief-stricken, he ventures into the Underworld determined to bring her back. Using his extraordinary musical talent, he persuades beings and deities along his route to grant him passage. He is allowed to lead Eurydice out on the condition that she follow behind him and he must not look back until they have both reached the surface. Overcome by doubt, he glances back too soon and loses her forever.

The poem warns against yielding to desire and temptation: a single glance dooms Eurydice's chance to return.

Answer Details:

Subject: English

Level: High School

Course: Mythology

Keywords:

Orpheus, Eurydice, music, Underworld, Mythology