# Oracle of Trophonius explained — Bulfinch’s Mythology

> Chapter companion for Bulfinch’s Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch.

## What happens

This chapter describes the oracle of Trophonius in Boeotia, its origin story involving the brothers Trophonius and Agamedes, and the peculiar rituals required to consult it, including the proverb about gloominess.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hubris and Divine Retribution

Trophonius and Agamedes' theft from King Hyrieus and the subsequent deaths of both brothers illustrate the consequences of overreaching and deceit.

### Mortality and Immortality

The fate of Trophonius, swallowed by the earth, and the establishment of his oracle blur the line between mortal death and divine or heroic afterlife.

## Character check-ins

### Phoebus Apollo

The god at Delphi who directed the Boeotians to seek aid of Trophonius during a drought.

## Key lines

> He has been consulting the oracle of Trophonius.

He appears gloomy and dejected.

_This proverb was applied to a person who seemed low-spirited, referencing the melancholy demeanor of those who returned from the oracle._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se/chapters/oracle-of-trophonius
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se/chapters