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Prometheus Bound characters

By Aeschylus, E.H. Plumptre

Every entry below is hidden until you open it, and each names the chapter the character first appears in.

Prometheus (Protagonist)

Appears from the start

A Titan chained in a remote wilderness on Zeus's orders. He has defied the new ruler of the gods by helping mortals, most famously by giving them fire, and he meets punishment with fierce certainty that Zeus will one day need knowledge only he possesses.

Hephaestus (Supporting)

Appears from the start

The divine smith commanded to fasten Prometheus to the rock. He pities the prisoner and dislikes his task, but fear of Zeus and pressure from his escorts overcome his reluctance.

Kratos (Antagonist)

Also known as Strength

Appears from the start

A harsh agent of Zeus who supervises Prometheus's binding. He treats obedience to the new divine order as absolute and mocks both the captive and Hephaestus's compassion.

Bia (Minor)

Also known as Force

Appears from the start

The silent companion of Kratos who helps bring Prometheus to the place of punishment as an embodiment of Zeus's coercive power.

Chorus of Oceanids (Supporting)

Also known as Oceanids

Appears from the start

The daughters of Oceanus, who arrive as a chorus after hearing the blows used to secure Prometheus. They grieve over his suffering, question him about his conflict with Zeus, and remain sympathetic witnesses to his resistance.

Oceanus (Supporting)

Appears from the start

An elder divine power and father of the Oceanids. He visits Prometheus offering sympathy and proposing to plead with Zeus, though his caution and willingness to accommodate the new ruler contrast with Prometheus's refusal to submit.

Io (Supporting)

Appears from the start

A mortal woman driven across the world in torment after Zeus desired her and Hera turned her into a wandering cow pursued by a stinging gadfly. She reaches Prometheus seeking an explanation of her sufferings and knowledge of what lies ahead.

Hermes (Antagonist)

Appears from the start

The messenger of Zeus, sent to force Prometheus to disclose a prophecy that threatens the ruler's future. His polished authority turns to threats when the prisoner refuses to answer.

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