Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Mezentius explained
Aeneas and his Etrurian allies arrive to rescue their camp, leading to a full-scale war.
What happens
Aeneas and his Etrurian allies arrive to rescue their camp, leading to a full-scale war. The tyrant Mezentius fights fiercely, killing many, but is wounded by Aeneas. His son Lausus intervenes and is slain by Aeneas, who honors his body. Mezentius, upon learning of his son's death, rides into battle seeking revenge, but is ultimately killed by Aeneas, asking only that his body be buried with his son.
Themes in this chapter
Hubris and Divine Retribution
Mezentius's tyrannical rage and defiance lead to his downfall and death, illustrating retribution for his hubris.
Heroism and the Quest
Aeneas demonstrates heroic compassion in sparing Lausus's body and fulfilling his duty to defeat the tyrant.
Mortality and Immortality
The deaths of Lausus and Mezentius highlight the mortal cost of war, while Aeneas's pity and the memory of sweet Argos evoke the fleeting nature of life.
Characters to notice
- Aeneas
Leads Etrurian allies, wounds Mezentius, slays Lausus in pity, and ultimately kills Mezentius.
- Mezentius
Tyrant who rages against revolting subjects, wounds Anthor, is wounded by Aeneas, and dies after seeking revenge for his son Lausus.
- Lausus
Son of Mezentius, interposes himself to protect his father, and is slain by Aeneas.
- Anthor
Grecian follower of Evander, killed by Mezentius's spear intended for Aeneas; dies remembering sweet Argos.
Key passages
“He fell, unhappy, by a wound intended for another, looked up at the skies, and dying remembered sweet Argos.”
Anthor died from a spear meant for Aeneas, gazing at the sky and recalling his beloved homeland Argos.
This poignant line emphasizes the pathos of a warrior dying far from home.
“Hapless youth, what can I do for you worthy of your praise? Keep those arms in which you glory, and fear not but that your body shall be restored to your friends, and have due funeral honors.”
Aeneas speaks to the fallen Lausus, promising to return his armor and ensure his body receives proper burial rites.
Aeneas shows respect and pity for his enemy's son, highlighting his noble character.