Story Summary
Discover the tragic Greek myth of Apollo and Coronis, a tale of divine love, betrayal, and the birth of Asclepius, the legendary god of healing.
Apollo, the radiant god of the sun, fell deeply in love with the beautiful princess Coronis of Thessaly. While Apollo was away on divine duties, he left a snow-white crow to guard her. However, Coronis, fearing that a god's love would be fleeting, sought the companionship of a mortal man named Ischys. When the crow witnessed their tryst, it flew to Apollo to deliver the news of the betrayal. In a fit of divine rage, Apollo cursed the bird for not pecking out the eyes of the mortal intruder, scorching its white feathers into the soot-black plumage crows carry today. Consumed by jealousy, Apollo asked his sister Artemis to strike Coronis down with her arrows. As Coronis lay dying, she revealed she was pregnant with Apollo's child. Stricken with sudden, agonizing remorse, Apollo could not save his lover from the flames of the funeral pyre, but he managed to rescue the unborn child from her womb. This child was Asclepius, who would grow to become the greatest healer and the god of medicine.
The Moral
Impulsive anger and jealousy often lead to irreversible consequences and the loss of what we cherish most.
“Even a god's love cannot shield a heart from the fire of its own choices.”
Fun Fact
This myth is an 'aetiological' story, meaning it was used by ancient Greeks to explain why crows have black feathers and why they are often seen as omens of bad news.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Apollo and Coronis?
The story serves as a warning against acting in haste and blind rage, showing that even gods cannot undo the damage caused by a jealous impulse.
Why did the crow turn black in Greek mythology?
According to the myth, Apollo cursed the crow because it brought him the bad news of Coronis's infidelity, turning its originally white feathers black forever.
Who was the child of Apollo and Coronis?
Their child was Asclepius, who was rescued from his mother's funeral pyre and became the renowned god of medicine and healing.
Who killed Coronis?
Coronis was killed by the goddess Artemis, who shot her with arrows at the request of her brother Apollo to avenge his wounded pride.
Why did Coronis betray Apollo with a mortal?
Coronis reportedly feared that Apollo's divine affection would be temporary or that he would eventually abandon her, leading her to seek a mortal partner.
Who raised Asclepius after Coronis died?
After rescuing him, Apollo gave the infant Asclepius to the wise centaur Chiron, who taught him the arts of healing and medicine.
