Victory Odes · Chapter
VI For Agesias of Syracuse explained
Pindar celebrates Agesias' victory in the mule-car race, linking his dual heritage from Syracuse and Stymphalus.
What happens
Pindar celebrates Agesias' victory in the mule-car race, linking his dual heritage from Syracuse and Stymphalus. The ode recounts the myth of Iamus, son of Apollo and Evadne, who was granted the gift of prophecy and founded the oracle at Olympia. Pindar also praises Hiero of Syracuse and calls for harmony between the two homelands.
Themes in this chapter
Divine Ancestry and Civic Pride
Agesias' lineage is traced through Evadne and Apollo, and his dual citizenship in Syracuse and Stymphalus is celebrated as a source of honor.
Fate and Divine Justice
Iamus' destiny as a prophet is ordained by Apollo and the Fates, and the oracle at Olympia is established by divine will.
The Power of Poetry and Immortal Fame
Pindar asserts that great deeds require poets to record them, and his song ensures Agesias' glory endures.
Patronage and Political Allegiance
The ode honors Hiero of Syracuse, linking Agesias' victory to the ruler's patronage and the city's prosperity.
Characters to notice
- Agesias
Victorious patron of the mule-car race, citizen of both Syracuse and Stymphalus, praised for his deeds and heritage.
- Apollo
Father of Iamus, god of prophecy, who grants the gift of oracular truth to his son.
- Hiero
Ruler of Syracuse, honored for his righteous scepter and devotion to the gods, including Zeus and the Maid of the White Steeds.
- Hermes
Herald of the gods, honored by Agesias' ancestors; associated with games and the Arcadian homeland.
- Poseidon
Father of Evadne by Pitane, invoked as Sea-lord King for protection of Agesias' voyage.
- Pindar
The poet himself, who speaks of his craft, his Theban heritage, and his role as a messenger of the Muses.
- The Muses
Bright-haired Muses who sanction the poet's witness and inspire his song.
- Zeus
Kronion, god of the Olympian games, whose altar is the site of Iamus' second oracle.
Key passages
“The achievement proves the man: but envious eyes / Of slanderers follow still him on whose head / The Grace rains beauty”
A person's accomplishments reveal their true character, but those who are blessed with success often attract jealous critics.
Pindar acknowledges the envy that Agesias faces from rivals in Syracuse.
“My tongue is poesy’s whetstone shrilly-sounding! / That fancy all my willing spirit thrills / With breathings beauty-rippling.”
My poetic voice sharpens the edge of song, and inspiration fills my soul with beautiful, flowing words.
Pindar asserts his role as a poet who hones and delivers praise.
“’Tis good the ship on anchors twain be swinging / In night of storm.”
It is wise for a ship to be secured by two anchors during a stormy night.
Metaphor for Agesias' dual citizenship providing stability amid political turmoil.