Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Acis and Galatea explained
Galatea tells Scylla the story of her love for Acis and the unwanted advances of the Cyclops Polyphemus.
What happens
Galatea tells Scylla the story of her love for Acis and the unwanted advances of the Cyclops Polyphemus. Polyphemus, transformed by love, tries to win Galatea, but when he discovers her with Acis, he kills Acis by hurling a rock. Galatea then transforms Acis into a river.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Transformation
Love transforms Polyphemus from a savage giant into a suitor who cares for his appearance, and ultimately leads to Acis's metamorphosis into a river.
Jealousy and Revenge
Polyphemus's jealousy upon seeing Galatea with Acis drives him to murder, an act of revenge for his unrequited love.
Characters to notice
- Scylla
A fair virgin of Sicily who listens to Galatea's story.
- Galatea
A sea-nymph, daughter of Nereus, who loves Acis and is pursued by Polyphemus.
- Polyphemus
The Cyclops who falls in love with Galatea and kills Acis out of jealousy.
- Acis
Son of Faunus and a Naiad, beloved of Galatea, transformed into a river after being killed by Polyphemus.
Key passages
“As much as I sought his society, so much did the Cyclops seek mine; and if you ask me whether my love for Acis or my hatred of Polyphemus was the stronger, I cannot tell you; they were in equal measure.”
Galatea confesses that her love for Acis and her hatred for Polyphemus are equally intense.
Highlights the central conflict of the story.
“The best instructor, Love, at once inspired, As barren grounds to fruitfulness are fired. Love taught him shame, and shame with love at strife Soon taught the sweet civilities of life.”
Love is the greatest teacher, transforming even the most unrefined person into someone civilized.
Dryden's commentary on the power of love, echoing the transformation of Polyphemus.