Hippolytus

Definition

Hippolytus is a character from Greek mythology known for his strong devotion to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and protector of young women. He is often depicted as a symbol of chastity and purity, reflecting Artemis's values. His story highlights the complex relationships between gods and mortals, particularly the tragic consequences of unrequited love and betrayal, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hippolytus is the son of Theseus and the Amazon queen Hippolyta, showcasing a blend of heroic lineage and connection to warrior culture.
2. He is devoted to chastity and follows the ideals of Artemis, rejecting the advances of Phaedra, which angers Aphrodite.
3. Aphrodite's wrath leads to Phaedra falsely accusing Hippolytus of assault, which drives Theseus to curse his son without seeking the truth.
4. Hippolytus's tragic end comes when he is killed by a monstrous bull sent by Poseidon as retribution for his rejection of Phaedra.
5. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misunderstanding and manipulation among gods and mortals.

Review Questions

• How does Hippolytus's relationship with Artemis influence his character and actions throughout the myth?
  • Hippolytus’s relationship with Artemis shapes his identity as he embodies her values of purity and chastity. His devotion to her leads him to reject the advances of Phaedra, showcasing his commitment to these ideals. This strong connection not only defines his character but also positions him against other deities, like Aphrodite, highlighting the conflict between divine influences and mortal choices.
• Analyze the role of Aphrodite in Hippolytus's downfall and how it reflects themes of love and revenge in mythology.
  • Aphrodite plays a pivotal role in Hippolytus’s tragic fate by instigating Phaedra’s unreciprocated love for him. Her vengeance against Hippolytus for rejecting love creates a dramatic tension that drives the narrative forward. This highlights themes common in mythology where divine beings manipulate mortal lives, leading to misunderstandings and tragic consequences fueled by love, jealousy, and revenge.
• Evaluate the implications of Hippolytus’s death on the relationships among the main characters in the myth, considering both divine and mortal perspectives.
  • The death of Hippolytus has profound implications for all main characters involved. It reveals the destructive power of miscommunication and emotional turmoil influenced by divine intervention. From Theseus's perspective, he grapples with guilt for wrongly cursing his son after believing Phaedra’s accusations, while from Phaedra’s viewpoint, her actions driven by love lead to irreversible tragedy. The myth illustrates how entangled relationships can spiral into chaos when influenced by capricious gods, leaving lasting scars on both mortal lives and divine honor.

Related terms

Artemis:

The Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth, who is also known as a protector of young women and a fierce advocate for their autonomy.

Phaedra: The wife of Theseus who falls in love with Hippolytus, leading to tragic consequences due to her unreciprocated feelings.

Theseus:

The hero and king of Athens, father of Hippolytus, whose actions and decisions significantly impact the fate of his son.