Prometheus Unbound: Analysis of Major Characters
"Prometheus Unbound" is a dramatic poem that explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and the struggle between divine and human powers through its major characters. At the center is Prometheus, a Titan who defies Jupiter, the chief god, by aiding humanity and subsequently facing eternal punishment. His enduring spirit and refusal to renounce his defiance serve as a testament to human resilience. Jupiter embodies oppressive authority, whose downfall occurs as Prometheus is liberated, marking a shift in power dynamics.
Another key figure is Demogorgon, the supreme god who ultimately orchestrates Jupiter's defeat and Prometheus's release, symbolizing a new era for humanity. Supporting characters such as Panthea and Ione, Oceanids who seek to understand the unfolding events, represent the interconnectedness of existence and the divine. Herakles, the legendary hero, plays a crucial role in Prometheus's liberation, emphasizing the theme of heroism and sacrifice. The narrative also features the Spirit of the Hour, who heralds the positive changes that will come with Prometheus's freedom, suggesting hope and renewal. Together, these characters illustrate a rich tapestry of conflict between tyranny and liberation, resonating with diverse interpretations across cultures.
Prometheus Unbound: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Percy Bysshe Shelley
First published: 1820
Genre: Play
Locale: Asia
Plot: Allegory
Time: Remote antiquity
Prometheus (proh-MEE-thee-uhs), a Titan punished by Jupiter for having befriended humankind. He is chained to a rocky cliff for three thousand years while eagles tear at his heart, but he will not repudiate the curse he has pronounced on Jupiter. Aided by spirits and gods, Prometheus finally is unbound. His freedom heralds an age of sweetness and light for humankind.
Jupiter (JEW-pih-tur), the chief of the gods, who has had Prometheus bound to the cliff. As Prometheus is released, Jupiter loses his power and falls, impotent, into darkness.
Demogorgon (dee-muh-GOHR-guhn), the supreme god and ruler of all gods, who finally reverses prevailing circumstances, thus causing Jupiter's downfall and Prometheus' release from torment.
Panthea (PAN-thee-ah) and Ione (i-OH-nee), two Oceanids. Panthea and Asia, Prometheus' wife, learn from Demogorgon that Prometheus will be set free. They are Demogorgon's interlocutors as he explains what will come to pass on Earth.
Herakles (HEHR-uh-kleez), the hero famous for his strength. Herakles, before spirits friendly to Prometheus, releases the captive from his bonds and torment.
Mercury (MUR-kyew-ree), the messenger of the gods, sent by Jupiter to Prometheus to learn from the captive how long Jupiter will reign.
Earth, Prometheus' mother.
Asia, Prometheus' wife.
Phantasma of Jupiter (fan-TAZ-mah), a wraith who appears to Prometheus to repeat for him the forgotten curse he had put on Jupiter.
The Furies, agents of torment who go with Mercury to punish further the bound Titan.
The Spirit of the Hour, one of a group of Hours, figures who move in Demogorgon's realm to show the passing of time by Age, Manhood, Youth, Infancy, and Death. The Spirit of the Hour announces Prometheus'release to all of humankind and describes the pleasant things that will occur on Earth now that the Titan is free.