In Greek mythology, King Minos is best known for his role in the story of Theseus and the Minotaur. In the play, Cruel Tribute, Minos is the central character, and his actions have consequences for those around him. In this article, we will explore three of the events that are a result of King Minos’s actions.
King Minos’s Actions
King Minos was the ruler of Crete, and his actions in Cruel Tribute are motivated by his desire for power and control. In the play, he demands a yearly tribute of seven young men and seven young women from Athens, to be sacrificed to the Minotaur. He also sends his son, Androgeus, to compete in the games in Athens, knowing that he will be killed. Finally, he arranges for the marriage of his daughter, Ariadne, to the prince of Athens.
Consequences of His Actions
The first consequence of King Minos’s actions is the death of the fourteen Athenians who are sent as a tribute to Crete. This tribute is a symbol of Minos’s power over the people of Athens, and it is a terrible burden for them to bear.
The second consequence of Minos’s actions is the death of his son, Androgeus. Androgeus is sent to Athens to compete in the games, but he is killed by the King of Athens. This is a devastating blow to Minos, and it leads to his eventual downfall.
Finally, the marriage of his daughter, Ariadne, to the prince of Athens is a consequence of King Minos’s actions. The marriage is part of a deal that Minos makes with the King of Athens in order to end the yearly tribute of Athenian youths. This marriage has far-reaching consequences, as it is the catalyst for the events that lead to Minos’s eventual downfall.
In Cruel Tribute, King Minos’s actions have dire consequences for those around him. His demand for a yearly tribute of Athenian youths, the death of his son, and the marriage of his daughter all lead to his eventual downfall. Through his actions, Minos serves as a cautionary tale for those who seek power and control.
Cruel Tribute is an acclaimed Greek tragedy written by Euripides in 439 BC. The play follows King Minos of Crete, a tyrannical ruler, and his efforts to escape his past through an elaborate plot of deceit. The events of this story are largely driven by Minos’s own actions, from his attempts to manipulate his family and enemies, to his eventual downfall.
The first event as a result of King Minos’s actions is the abduction of Theseus by Minos’ son, Asterion. In retaliation for the death of his own son at Theseus’ hands, Minos orders Asterion to kidnaps the young Athenian prince and bring him to Crete. Minos’ directive leads to Theseus’ imprisonment in the Labyrinth, where he is eventually imprisoned for the rest of his life.
Secondly, King Minos’s actions contribute to the death of his daughter, Ariadne. After helping Theseus escape the Labyrinth, Ariadne is abandoned by Theseus when he reaches Athens. In an act of revenge, Minos orders her to be killed for her betrayal, although he eventually breaks down and begs for her life to be spared at the very end.
Finally, King Minos’s actions lead to the death of his own wife, Pasiphae. In an effort to prove his own power, Minos orders Pasiphae to be killed after she helps Theseus escape Crete. As a result, the beloved queen and the entire city of Crete are plunged into mourning.
Overall, King Minos’s actions can be seen as the catalyst for the events that unfold in the tragedy of Cruel Tribute. His own actions contribute to the abduction of Theseus, the death of Ariadne, and the murder of his own wife.
