The Argonautica · Chapter
Book II explained
The Argonauts continue their journey, encountering the blind prophet Phineus who advises them on navigating the Clashing Rocks.
What happens
The Argonauts continue their journey, encountering the blind prophet Phineus who advises them on navigating the Clashing Rocks. They successfully pass through the Symplegades with the help of Athena and a dove. Jason expresses his fears and responsibilities as leader, but the crew's encouragement renews his resolve. They also learn of the dangers awaiting them in Colchis, including the sleepless serpent guarding the Golden Fleece.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and Leadership
Jason's internal struggle with fear and responsibility highlights the burdens of leadership, while the crew's loyalty underscores collective heroism.
Divine Intervention and Mortal Agency
Athena's aid in guiding the Argo through the Clashing Rocks and Phineus' prophetic counsel demonstrate the interplay between gods and mortals.
Quest and Adventure
The chapter advances the central quest for the Golden Fleece, with new challenges and revelations about the dangers ahead.
Characters to notice
- Jason
Jason addresses the crew, expresses his fears and sense of responsibility, and is encouraged by their support.
- Phineus
The blind prophet Phineus advises the Argonauts on navigating the Clashing Rocks and foretells their future trials.
- Argus
Argus warns Jason about the dangers of facing King Aiêtes and the sleepless serpent guarding the Golden Fleece.
- Peleus
Peleus encourages the crew, asserting their prowess and divine lineage in the face of danger.
- Tiphys
Tiphys steers the Argo through the Clashing Rocks and reassures Jason after their successful passage.
- Euphemus
Euphemus holds the dove used to test the passage through the Clashing Rocks.
Key passages
“Zeus’ self upon all things looketh, nor ever escape we his ken Of a surety, such as be god-revering and righteous men.”
Zeus watches over all, especially those who are righteous and reverent.
Jason invokes divine justice to reassure the crew and justify their quest.
“Nay, not easy it is to take that Fleece away From Aiêtes, so mighty a serpent around and about it is coiled, Deathless and sleepless.”
The Golden Fleece is guarded by a powerful, immortal serpent that never sleeps, making it extremely difficult to steal.
Argus warns of the formidable challenge awaiting them in Colchis.
“I have sinned: with baneful and cureless madness have I transgressed. For I ought, in the very hour when Pelias uttered his hest, To have straightway refused this Quest, yea, though I were doomed to die.”
Jason regrets accepting the quest from Pelias, feeling it was a mad mistake that now endangers his comrades.
Jason's moment of doubt reveals his deep sense of responsibility and guilt.