Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Diana and Actaeon explained
The chapter recounts the myth of Actaeon, who accidentally stumbles upon the goddess Diana bathing with her nymphs in a secluded cave.
What happens
The chapter recounts the myth of Actaeon, who accidentally stumbles upon the goddess Diana bathing with her nymphs in a secluded cave. As punishment for invading her privacy, Diana splashes water on him and transforms him into a stag. Actaeon is then hunted and killed by his own hounds, unable to reveal his identity. The chapter also includes a reference to Shelley's poem 'Adonais,' which alludes to this story.
Themes in this chapter
Hubris and Divine Retribution
Actaeon's accidental intrusion is treated as a violation of divine privacy, leading to his brutal punishment by Diana, exemplifying the severe retribution for transgressions against the gods.
Fate and Free Will
Actaeon is described as being 'led thither by his destiny,' suggesting that his fate was predetermined, despite his innocent intentions.
Characters to notice
- Diana
The virgin goddess of the hunt who punishes Actaeon for seeing her unapparelled by transforming him into a stag.
- King Cadmus
Mentioned as the father of Actaeon, establishing his lineage.
- Phoebus Apollo
Referenced as Phoebus, whose sun parches the earth at midday when the story takes place.
- Actaeon
The young hunter who inadvertently sees Diana bathing and is transformed into a stag, then killed by his own dogs.
Key passages
“Now go and tell, if you can, that you have seen Diana unapparelled.”
Go and boast, if you are able, that you have witnessed Diana without her clothing.
Diana's curse upon Actaeon, which initiates his transformation into a stag.
“He could not but admire his own speed; but when he saw his horns in the water, 'Ah, wretched me!' he would have said, but no sound followed the effort.”
He couldn't help but marvel at how fast he could run, but when he saw his antlers reflected in the water, he tried to cry out in despair, but no words came out.
Actaeon's realization of his transformation and his inability to speak as a human.
“His friends and fellow-huntsmen cheered on the dogs, and looked everywhere for Actaeon, calling on him to join the sport. At the sound of his name he turned his head, and heard them regret that he should be away.”
His companions urged the hounds on and searched for Actaeon, shouting for him to join the hunt. Hearing his name, he turned, listening as they lamented his absence.
The tragic irony of Actaeon's friends unknowingly calling for him while he is being torn apart by the dogs.