Humanity has always held a profound fascination for death. From classical civilisations to the present day, our collective imagination has been captivated by the mysteries of existence beyond the threshold of mortality, illustrated by rich and diverse societal traditions, ancient texts, and mythological narratives.
In the Summer edition of Achilles Reel, we delve into the timeless theme of death and the underworld, exploring the profound significance of mortality and the realm beyond life in ancient literature and myth. The underworld, a realm shrouded in darkness and inhabited by Gods, spirits, and shades lies at the forefront of classical tales, accounts, and philosophical dialogues. Through myth and legend, poets and storytellers weave intricate tales of heroes journeying to the underworld, confronting its guardians, and encountering the souls of the departed. Death has played a prominent role in shaping social customs, funerary rites, and commemorative practices in ancient societies. Classical literature demonstrates the way in which death permeated every aspect of ancient life, from birth to burial. Enduring curiosity regarding death has manifested in rich and diverse traditions, exhibited through accounts of necromancy, as illustrated in Apuleius’ Sagae Thessalae, and death rituals in Ancient Greece, performed to ensure everlasting prosperity in the afterlife of the deceased.
From Odysseus’ descent into Hades to the tragic attempt of Orpheus to rescue Eurydice, each tale uncovers the rich tapestry of beliefs held by ancient thinkers and conveys the myriad of attitudes towards death, and the life that might follow it. Many descended to the underworld to carry out tasks, such as Heracles on his 12th labour, who sought to bring Cerberus to Eurystheus in the mortal realm, or Aeneas who journeyed to reunite with his father after the atrocities of the Trojan war. The profound influence of later literary works such as Dante’s Inferno offers a portrayal of the afterlife as a complex, multi-layered realm of punishment and redemption, differing from traditional classical narratives. Dante’s descent serves as a powerful allegory for human immorality and reinforces notions of ethics that resonate into our contemporary society. Myths surrounding the abduction of Persephone and the rule of Hades correlate with the cyclical nature of life and death in ancient tales, reflecting the eternal rhythm of renewal and regeneration present in the world.
The pertinence of the underworld portrayed in myth and literature serves not only as reminder of the mortality of humans but the immortality of their ideas, invention, and beliefs that continue to shape our understanding of life, death, and the mysteries that lie beyond.
Upon our final edition, I would like to thank the brilliant writers that have worked diligently this year, contributing fascinating and entertaining articles, and stretching the bounds of the curriculum with their research and innovation. The guidance and support of Dr Linscott across the editions has been remarkable and unwavering dedication of the Classics department has inspired many of us in our writing. It has been a privilege to edit this journal, and I hope you enjoy the final edition from our team. From all of us at Achilles Reel, we wish you a wonderful final term!
Alex Editor In Chief
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