Cadmus: Analysis of Major Characters
Cadmus is a central figure in Greek mythology, recognized as the founder of Thebes. His journey begins when he embarks on a quest to find his sister, Europa, who has been abducted by Jupiter, the king of the gods. Despite being guided by divine figures like Minerva, who instructs him to sow dragon's teeth to create warriors, Cadmus faces numerous challenges, including conflict with Mars, the god of war, who seeks vengeance for the slaying of the dragon. This conflict results in tragedy, as Mars curses Cadmus and his offspring, leading to the death of his children.
Eventually, Cadmus finds no solace and is transformed into a serpent by the gods. His story intertwines with that of Harmonia, his wife, the daughter of Mars and Venus, who chooses to share in his fate out of love. This narrative explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and divine retribution, showcasing the complexities of familial bonds and the consequences of divine intervention. Cadmus's tale serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by individuals in the face of destiny and the whims of the gods.
Cadmus: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Unknown
First published: Unknown
Genre: Short fiction
Locale: Greece
Plot: Adventure
Time: Remote antiquity
Cadmus (KAD-muhs), the founder of Thebes. Told by his father not to return to Phenicia without Europa, his kidnapped sister, he goes off to found the Greek city of Thebes, aided by five warriors who spring from a dragon's teeth. Harassed by Mars for killing the dragon, he leaves Thebes for the land of the Enchelians. But he finds no peace and is finally changed into a serpent by the gods.
Agenor (ah-JEE-nohr), Cadmus' father, King of Phenicia. He commands his son to bring back Europa when she is stolen by Jupiter.
Europa (yew-ROH-pah), Cadmus' sister. When Jupiter, in the form of a bull, kidnaps her, her brother is sent to find her and bring her back to her father.
Jupiter, king of the gods. Enamored of Europa, he steals her from her family.
Minerva (mih-NUR-vah), the goddess of wisdom, daughter of Jupiter. She tells Cadmus to sow the teeth of a dragon he has slain, from which spring a host of warriors. All but five kill one another in battle; the remaining warriors become Cadmus' servants and help him build the city of Thebes.
Harmonia (hahr-MOH-nee-uh), the daughter of Mars and Venus. She is given by Jupiter to Cadmus to be his wife. Because she loves her husband, she begs to be turned into a serpent when he is transformed into one. The gods grant her request.
Mars, god of war. He seeks revenge for Cadmus'slaying of a dragon and puts a curse on the man and his children. He causes the children to die and harasses Cadmus so relentlessly that he asks to be turned into a serpent.