Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
The Wedding Feast explained
Perseus and Andromeda celebrate their wedding with a feast, but Phineus, Andromeda's former betrothed, bursts in with armed followers demanding her.
What happens
Perseus and Andromeda celebrate their wedding with a feast, but Phineus, Andromeda's former betrothed, bursts in with armed followers demanding her. After Cepheus's failed remonstrations, a battle ensues. Perseus uses the Gorgon's head to turn his enemies to stone, including Phineus, who is spared but petrified as a lasting memorial.
Themes in this chapter
Hospitality and Its Violation
Phineus's attack on the wedding feast violates the sacred bond of hospitality, leading to divine punishment.
Hubris and Divine Retribution
Phineus's arrogance in challenging Perseus results in his petrification, a form of divine retribution.
Characters to notice
- Perseus
The hero who defeats Phineus and his followers by using the Gorgon's head to turn them to stone.
- King Priam
Referenced indirectly as Cepheus, the father of Andromeda, who attempts to reason with Phineus.
- Jupiter
Implied as the divine authority behind the sentence dooming Andromeda to the monster.
Key passages
“You should have claimed her when she lay bound to the rock, the monster’s victim. The sentence of the gods dooming her to such a fate dissolved all engagements, as death itself would have done.”
Cepheus tells Phineus that he should have spoken up when Andromeda was chained to the rock, as the gods' decree nullified any prior betrothal, just as death would.
Cepheus's argument underscores the theme of fate and divine will overriding human agreements.
“If I have any friend here let him turn away his eyes!”
Perseus warns his allies to avert their gaze before revealing the Gorgon's head.
This moment highlights Perseus's strategic use of the Gorgon's power to turn the tide of battle.
“Take all, give me but my life.”
Phineus pleads with Perseus to spare his life, offering everything else he has.
Phineus's cowardice contrasts with his earlier aggression, emphasizing his downfall.