Argonautika Chapter Summary & Analysis | Book One: Preparation and Departure

Book One: Preparation and Departure Summary

King Pelias, of the city of Iolcus in Hellas, sends Jason and the Argonauts up the straits into the Black Sea in search of the Golden Fleece. Pelias is compelled to do so because of a prophecy that haunts him. An oracle warned him that a man appearing before him with one shoe would herald his death. Jason, who lost a shoe in the muddy bank of a river, appears before the King confirming his fears about the prophecy. Hoping that he will never see Jason again, he sends him off to sea.

Jason gathers his crew which includes, among others, Orpheus, son of Calliope; Polyphemus, a brave fighter in his youth; Titaresian Mopsus, trained by Apollo; Iphiclus, Jason's own uncle; Nauplius, the finest sailor of his day; the mighty and stout-hearted Hercales; Acastus, son of King Pelias; and, Argus, the builder of the Argo.

The Argo is primed,...
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