Essay | Apollo and Cassandra: Ancient Myth with Modern Meaning

The story of Apollo and Cassandra remains one of the most famous and influential tales in all of Greek mythology. While it has several variations, its core topics of prophecy and return gifts remain the same. (Fitton 1) The myth has a complex plot, with the motif of danger of arrogance being crucial to the understanding of the story. Due to the plot's nature, it remains a practical tale, both in its applications of the tale throughout literature, and its interpretations and warnings for life.

This myth has many applications throughout literature. Cassandra's characterization as a prophetess has sparked an entire subgenre. (Wilkinson 1) In fact, the term "Cassandra Syndrome," linked to this mythological tale, is applied to "predictions of doom about the future that are not believed, but upon later reflection turn out to be correct. (Wikipedia 1) Literature has spawned many prophets similar to...
(read more)