Chasteen Unit II Assign II

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Chasteen Unit II Assign II Contrast the Festival of Demeter in Eleusis with the Festival of Dionysius at Naxos, detailing how Renault’s versions differ from Hamilton’s. This comparative study examines two works that delve into Greek mythology, "Mythology" by Edith Hamilton and "The King Must Die" by Mary Renault. While both books touch on Greek myths, they approach the subject matter differently. Hamilton presents the myths in an academic and straightforward manner, relying on archaeological evidence and the writing of ancient Greek authors. Contrarily, Renault's novel is a work of historical fiction that retells the story of Theseus, a Greek hero, and incorporates mythological elements into the narrative structure. Hamilton portrays the Festival of Demeter at Eleusis with reverence and mystery. The religious rites were the most sacred and secretive and celebrated Demeter's search for her daughter Persephone, whom Hades had abducted. A vow of silence bound the initiates, and the rituals were closely guarded. It is implied that participants went through rites of descent and ascent, symbolizing death and rebirth, echoing Persephone's yearly return from the Underworld. In "The King Must Die," Renault portrays the festivals of Demeter in Eleusis as not only a religious rite but also a politically charged event. Theseus arrives in Eleusis and participates in the festival, depicted with significant artistic license. The celebration includes a mock battle that symbolizes the struggle between the old and new kings, representing death and rebirth akin to the myth of Persephone. Renault uses the festival as a narrative device to demonstrate Theseus's ingenuity, maneuvering the situation to avoid being sacrificed and instead gaining power. The Festival of Dionysus is traditionally associated with performances of plays, particularly tragedies and comedies. It celebrates the god of wine, fertility, and ecstasy and involves sacrifices and contests, particularly the Greater Dionysia held in Athens. The plays performed were part of a competition and served as a tribute to Dionysus. Hamilton's treatment emphasizes the festival's culture and religious role in celebrating the gods' theme of death, rebirth, and the boundary between illusion and reality. The festival also included a ritual known as sparagmos, where a live animal was torn apart and eaten raw, symbolizing the god's dismemberment and rebirth. In Renault's version, she interprets the Festival of Dionysus at Naxos as having a darker edge. Here, Theseus encountered a ritual that involved human sacrifice. In this story, the festival of Dionysus becomes both a cause for anger and an opportunity for Theseus. His survival and wits during the festival further develop his character, foreshadowing his destiny as a hero and a king. Hamilton, E. (1969). Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes (75th ed.). BLACK DOG & LEVENTHAL. Renault, M. (1989). The King Must Die. Open Road Integrated Media.
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