The tragic story of Orpheus and Eurydice in Edith Hamilton’s book entitled “Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes” has become the basis of this article by comparing Aristotle’s definition of the tragic hero with the life of Orpheus. as an ideal protagonist of his time.
First, Aristotle stated that a tragic hero must be a character of noble stature and have greatness. In fact, Orpheus’s title as the greatest mortal musician is already considered part of the characteristics of him as the ideal tragic hero. Furthermore, it is said that he is the son of the god Apollo and the muse Calliope. Furthermore, his noble fame is the main reason why Eurydice, her wife, chose him to be her husband.
Second, while it is considerably large, it has also shown that it is not perfect. According to ancient texts, Orpheus’s virtues were all received from his parents and not from his personal excellence. His conduct, however, does not seem especially wise, since he apparently accepts Eurydice only because he has been seduced by her sweet gestures.
Third, Orpheus’ fall is partly his fault, the result of his free choice, not accident, villainy, or some overwhelming evil fate. It was said that his act of disobedience lay in the death of his wife. And according to Plato, Orpheus is not willing to commit suicide for his love, rather he seeks to come back to life due to his lack of heroism and this is the reason why he leaves empty-handed afterwards.
Fourth, your sudden misfortune is not entirely deserved. It all started when he lost his wife to a certain handsome and nice pastor. And when the second death of his wife left him, he could not blame himself because of his undying love for his wife.
Finally, the fall of Orpheus is not a pure loss because there is a rise in consciousness, a gain in self-knowledge, and a discovery on his part as a tragic hero. His death became the main reason for his new beginnings because his soul descended into the Underworld where he was finally reunited with his wife, Eurydice.
And the main focal point of this article is that Orpheus is considered as a perfect hero who can be a source of all the inspirational songs that an ideal tragic hero could share for those who need to learn the importance of love and obedience in their lives.
Hamilton, E., 1940. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes. United States: The New American Library, Inc.
