Transformation in Classical Mythology

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses many examples of the transformation of gods or mortals into different physical forms. It argues that transformation occurs for many different reasons - plot-driven and purely etiological. It describes how gods use transformation on themselves, mostly for simple deception, but use it on mortals for life-altering and permanent changes, as punishment or sometimes reward.

From the Paper:

"The physical transformation of beings from one body to another pervades fantasy and especially classical mythology. The idea that a god has the power to change a mortal into something else can be frightening and awe-inspiring, but can also be comforting. Stories like that of Actaeon turned to a stag and eaten by his hunting dogs use transformation as a punishment, whereas the story of a nymph changing into a tree to avoid rape relates transformation as a positive outcome. Some stories seem to have beings transform only to relate their personal actions to the behaviors of the plant or animal they change into. Looking at cases like these in classical mythology, transformation is used as both punishment and reward and for both plot-driven and etiological purposes."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Mills, Alice et al. Mythology: Myths, Legends, & Fantasies. Global Book Publishing, Willoughby, Australia. 2003.
• Morford, Mark and Lenardon, Robert. Classical Mythology. Seventh Edition. Oxford University Press, New York. 2003.

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