Questions and Answers
What is the Golden Fleece?
The Golden Fleece was a golden ram that carried Phrixus to Colchis safely. Its skin was given to King Aetes, and whoever possessed it was the ruler of the kingdom.
Who is Pelias and why is he worried about a 'one-sandaled' stranger?
Pelias is Phrixus' uncle's nephew who overthrew his uncle to become king. He is worried because a prophecy foretold that a 'one-sandaled' stranger, Jason, would return to take his place in the kingdom.
Why does Jason seek the Golden Fleece, and who helps him in his quest?
Jason seeks the Golden Fleece to reclaim his kingdom from Pelias, who agrees to return it only if Jason retrieves the fleece from Colchis. He is accompanied by the Argonauts, including Hercules, Orpheus, and Castor.
Jason and his crew come across the island of ______, where the population is all female.
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What are three adventures Jason has along the way?
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How does the King of Colchis treat Jason when he arrives, and what tests does he put him through?
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How does Medea figure into the events surrounding Jason?
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What happens to Pelias after Jason returns with the Golden Fleece?
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Study Notes
The Golden Fleece
- The Golden Fleece originated from a ram that transported Phrixus safely to Colchis, where he sacrificed it to Zeus.
- The fleece became a symbol of rulership, granting power to whoever possessed it.
Pelias and Jason
- Pelias, usurper of the Greek throne, is concerned about the prophecy of a "one-sandaled" stranger returning to reclaim the kingdom.
- Jason, the rightful heir and "one-sandaled" stranger, is determined to confront Pelias and retrieve his throne.
Jason's Quest
- Jason seeks the Golden Fleece as a means to reclaim his birthright; Pelias offers to return the kingdom in exchange for the fleece.
- He is accompanied by a group of heroes known as the Argonauts, including Hercules, Orpheus, and Castor & Pollux.
Adventures of the Argonauts
- The Argonauts encounter the island of Lemnos, inhabited solely by women, who overthrew their male counterparts.
- They successfully navigate the Symplegades, the smashing rocks that threaten passing ships.
- They defeat the Harpies, half-bird, half-woman creatures that tormented the prophet Phineas.
Trials in Colchis
- Upon arriving in Colchis, Jason is warmly welcomed by King Aetes, who gives him formidable tasks to prove his worth.
- Jason must plow a field with fire-breathing bulls, defeat an army of warriors, and overcome a sleepless dragon to claim the fleece.
Role of Medea
- Medea, influenced by Cupid, falls in love with Jason and uses her magic to assist him in completing his daunting tasks.
- She provides Jason with a potion that renders him invulnerable for a day, allowing him to succeed without harm.
Aftermath for Pelias and Medea
- After Jason retrieves the Golden Fleece, Pelias refuses to return the throne, leading Medea to deceive his daughters into killing him.
- Jason eventually abandons Medea for another wife, prompting her rage and desire for revenge.
- In her vengeance, Medea kills the new wife with a poisoned robe and, to protect her sons from enslavement, takes their lives as well.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the Golden Fleece myth through these flashcards. Explore key characters like Phrixus and Pelias, and understand their significance in the story. Perfect for students seeking to deepen their grasp of this classic tale.
