Prometheus Bound Quotes

In Aeschylus’ Prometheus Bound, the titular character, Prometheus is established as a saviour of man, proving the essential tool that allowed for the elevation of archaic humans to humans with the abilities to build shelter, use numbers and cure through medicine. After his defiling of Zeus, by providing humans with fire, Prometheus is sentenced to eternal punishment as he is bound to crag and Zeus eagle feast on his liver day after day. It is, through Prometheus’ interview with Ocean, that the major theme of the tragedy, being pride, is developed. Furthermore, the exchange between Prometheus and ocean reveals the rebellious and defiant nature of Zeus and Prometheus relationship. The theme of the tragedy is developed through the important exchange between Prometheus and Ocean. Ocean’s reconciliatory character is met with Prometheus pride and sarcasm, leading the audience to …show more content…
Ocean arrives on the scene on his winged beast (PB 285) as Prometheus’ saviour hoping, in his eagerness (PB 336- 339), to go to Zeus and free Prometheus of his punishment. Before Oceans departure, he describes the pain and “misfortunes” he feels for Prometheus (PB 286- 289) and the esteem at which he holds Prometheus (PB 290 – 293). The opening scene of the interview establishes Oceans character as caring thoughtful character, but his actions say otherwise. He shares Prometheus “misfortune” (PB 287 – 289) and the esteem at which hold Prometheus (PB 291-293), yet he does not dismount his beast. He berates Prometheus with his “misfortunes” and offers of help (PB 294 -295), but as he exits the scene Ocean proclaims his beast “eagerness” (PB 393 -395) to return to his stable.