Prometheus Fire Symbolism Essay

Symbolic Importance Fire is the first and most obvious symbol of Prometheus. This is because he stole fire and gave it to humankind against the will of Zeus. Fire, in this case, symbolizes intelligence and progress. Without fire, humans would not be able to technologically advance and the hope that Prometheus gave them would serve no purpose (Chevalier, 772). Fire is also widely known as a symbol of pain. In Prometheus’s legend, for bringing fire to humans he was chained to the Caucasus Mountains where he suffered in agony his liver being torn out each day. So, in turn, fire brought Prometheus pain and therefore can be recognized as a symbol of pain in this case. As well, if both symbolic meanings of fire are combined, one can imply that as humans progress and develop thanks to fire, they will also use fire to inflict pain or create weapons using the fire which would disrupt their peaceful lifestyle. This makes Prometheus a symbol of progress backfiring. Proof of this is when Prometheus ensured humans would eat meat and sacrifice the bones; but due to that, Zeus took away fire so humans had no way to cook the meat. The colours …show more content…
Prometheus was constantly at odds with Zeus, and endured severe punishment for giving fire to humans. Zeus punished Prometheus through humankind as well, by indirectly unleashing all evils on the world. Symbolism related to Prometheus can be found in fire, the colours of fire, punishment, trickery, forethought or intelligence, progress, rebellion, garlands, and camaraderie. Prometheus is perfect to endorse “Fight-Me-Not Flames” because he has gone through hardship that could have been avoided with the use of this candle. Prometheus teaches everyone that, “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few” (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan), and, “If you play with fire you’re gonna get burned” (unknown