Greek MythsOlympian Gods

Apollo and Hyacinthus

A divine game of discus turns fatal when a jealous wind strikes down a god's mortal lover.

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Illustration for Apollo and Hyacinthus - a olympian gods Greek Myths story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Explore the tragic myth of Apollo and Hyacinthus, a tale of divine love, fatal jealousy, and the flower that bloomed from a Spartan prince's blood.

Apollo, the radiant god of the sun, found a companion in the beautiful Spartan prince Hyacinthus. Their days were spent in the wild woods of Laconia, hunting and practicing sports. One afternoon, they decided to compete in a friendly game of discus. Apollo, wanting to impress his friend, hurled the heavy bronze disc high into the clouds. However, Zephyrus, the West Wind, watched from the shadows with a heart consumed by jealousy, for he too loved the youth. As the discus descended, Zephyrus blew a treacherous gust that redirected the metal plate, striking Hyacinthus squarely in the temple. Apollo rushed to the fallen prince, but no divine medicine could heal the fatal wound. As Hyacinthus breathed his last, his blood stained the grass. Refusing to let his lover be forgotten, Apollo transformed the blood into a beautiful purple flower, carving the letters 'AI' upon its petals—a perpetual cry of grief for a love lost to the wind.

The Moral

Even the most powerful beings are vulnerable to the pain of loss and the destructive power of jealousy.

“Thou diest, Hyacinthus, robbed of thy youth by my hand, yet thy name shall bloom in the spring forever.”

Fun Fact

The letters 'AI' that Apollo inscribed on the petals represent the Greek word for 'Alas,' turning the flower into a permanent monument to his sorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Apollo and Hyacinthus?

The story serves as a reminder that love carries inherent risks and that jealousy can lead to irreversible tragedy. It also shows that even gods cannot override the finality of death and fate.

Who was responsible for Hyacinthus's death?

While the discus was thrown by Apollo, the true culprit was Zephyrus, the West Wind. He intentionally blew the discus off course out of a jealous rage because Hyacinthus preferred Apollo's company over his.

What does the flower symbolize in the myth?

The hyacinth flower symbolizes rebirth, memory, and eternal grief. The markings on its petals were said to be Apollo's cries of 'AI, AI' (Alas, Alas), ensuring the prince's name lived on forever.

Why were Apollo and Hyacinthus together?

Apollo was deeply in love with the mortal prince and had abandoned his divine duties at Delphi to spend time with him. They shared a bond centered on athletics, hunting, and mutual affection.

What is the origin of the Hyacinthia festival?

The Hyacinthia was a major Spartan festival held annually to mourn the death of Hyacinthus and celebrate his rebirth. It reflected the transition from the sorrow of death to the joy of life.

Is the ancient hyacinth the same as the modern flower?

Most scholars believe the flower described in the myth was actually a type of iris or larkspur. The modern hyacinth was named much later, though it still carries the weight of this ancient legend.