Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
C explained
This chapter provides an alphabetical listing of mythological, legendary, and historical figures, places, and concepts from classical and medieval traditions, including entries on Cadmus, Circe, Charlemagne, Camelot, and many others.
What happens
This chapter provides an alphabetical listing of mythological, legendary, and historical figures, places, and concepts from classical and medieval traditions, including entries on Cadmus, Circe, Charlemagne, Camelot, and many others.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter functions as an encyclopedic reference, transmitting mythological and historical knowledge across cultures.
Heroism and the Quest
Figures like Hercules, Cadmus, and Bellerophon are mentioned, embodying heroic quests and labors.
Characters to notice
- Charlemagne
King of the Franks and emperor of the Romans, mentioned as a key historical figure.
- Charlot
Son of Charlemagne, noted in the chapter.
- Circe
Sorceress and sister of Aeetes, referenced in the chapter.
- Cupid
Child of Venus and god of love, included in the listings.
- Cacus
Gigantic son of Vulcan, slain by Hercules for stealing cattle.
- Cadmus
Son of Agenor, founder of Thebes after slaying a dragon.
- Cephalus
Husband of Procris, mentioned in the chapter.
- Orpheus
Referenced indirectly through the Cumaean Sibyl and other entries.
Key passages
“Cacus (Caˈcus), gigantic son of Vulcan, slain by Hercules, whose captured cattle he stole.”
Cacus, a giant and son of Vulcan, was killed by Hercules after stealing his cattle.
Summarizes the myth of Cacus and Hercules.
“Cadmus (Cadˈmus), son of Agenor, king of Phoenicia, and of Telephassa, and brother of Europa, who, seeking his sister, carried off by Jupiter, had strange adventures—sowing in the ground teeth of a dragon he had killed, which sprang up armed men who slew each other, all but five, who helped Cadmus to found the city of Thebes.”
Cadmus, son of Agenor, searched for his sister Europa and, after killing a dragon, sowed its teeth to create warriors who helped him found Thebes.
Condenses the founding myth of Thebes.
“Charlemagne (Charˈle-magne), king of the Franks and emperor of the Romans.”
Charlemagne was the Frankish king and Roman emperor.
Simplifies the description of Charlemagne.