Metamorphoses · Chapter
Fate of Pyreneus explained
The Muses recount how they sought shelter from a storm in the house of King Pyreneus of Thrace, who treacherously attempted to assault them.
What happens
The Muses recount how they sought shelter from a storm in the house of King Pyreneus of Thrace, who treacherously attempted to assault them. When they escaped by transforming into birds, Pyreneus pursued them, fell from a high tower, and died.
Themes in this chapter
Divine Power and Human Folly
Pyreneus's hubris in attempting to assault the Muses leads to his downfall, illustrating the folly of mortals who challenge divine beings.
Transformation and Metamorphosis
The Muses transform into birds to escape Pyreneus's violence, a key metamorphosis in the narrative.
Characters to notice
- Pyreneus
King of Thrace who deceitfully offered shelter to the Muses and attempted violence against them, ultimately falling to his death.
Key passages
“But we, transform'd to birds, avoid his snare, On pinions rising in the yielding air.”
The Muses turned into birds and flew away to escape his trap.
Describes the Muses' metamorphosis and escape.
“The wretch fell headlong, and the ground bestrew'd With broken bones, and stains of guilty blood.”
Pyreneus fell from the tower and died, his body shattered on the ground.
Depicts Pyreneus's fatal fall as punishment for his crime.