Transformation of Cycnus Into a Swan explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Transformation and Metamorphosis

  Cycnus is physically transformed into a swan as a direct result of his grief.

• Divine Power and Human Folly

  Apollo's grief leads him to abandon his divine duty, requiring Jove's intervention to restore cosmic order.

Characters to notice

• Cycnus

  Son of Sthenelus, transformed into a swan while mourning Phaeton.

• Apollo

  Grieves for his son Phaeton and temporarily refuses to drive the sun chariot.

• Jove

  Descends from heaven to persuade Apollo to resume his duties.

• Phaeton

  Deceased son of Apollo, whose death is mourned by Cycnus and Apollo.

Key passages

• “All Cycnus now into a swan was turn'd, Who, still remembering how his kinsman burn'd, To solitary pools and lakes retires, And loves the waters as opposed to fires.”

  Cycnus is completely transformed into a swan; he remembers how Phaeton burned, so he retreats to lonely pools and lakes, preferring water over fire.

  Describes the metamorphosis and Cycnus's new aversion to fire.

• “Meanwhile Apollo, in the gloomy shade (The native lustre of his brows decay'd), Indulging sorrow, sickens at the sight Of his own sunshine, and abhors the light.”

  Apollo, grieving in the shadows, his usual brightness dimmed, feels sickened by his own sunlight and hates the light.

  Shows Apollo's deep grief and temporary rejection of his role as sun god.