This was probably the story I've been able to interpret best until now, mostly because of all the connections and possible hidden messages and teaching I was able to perceive. All the concepts and themes presented in this story were easy for me to relate to and spot similar conducts in society.
I'd like to begin by pointing out that Erysichthon's simple disobedience or disrespect in a way to the gods can be related to humans' negligence towards authorities themselves.Probably not in the exact same way, but definitely I found something there. As well as the moment when he cuts down one of the sacred trees, that was more than a clue to me since it can nowadays clearly make reference to the way we are destroying our environment and the Earth itself. He has no respect for the goddess, whatsoever, and even after being warned he goes ahead and cuts the tree.
"It's only a tree that the goddess likes, but say it was the goddess herself, I'd cut it down just the same." pg 33
As the end comes, the teaching of this story in particular becomes so clear. Erysichthon's fate, when he finally ends consuming himself and his "sold" mother ends up being cared for by the gods, has an important message to deliver to the reader. To me, it was an indirect way of telling us to be aware of where we're heading nowadays, rather than just get caught in it. Those who do good deeds will have a well-deserved reward.
The second story I liked a lot. Besides the fact that we had a fun acting activity in class, it was entertaining and kins of a twist if compared to previous stories. In this case, Orpheus and Eurydice are about to get married when the bride is surprisingly bit by a snake. Desperate, her husband Orpheus decides to descend to the underworld in order to get her back. After arriving to an agreement with Hades, Eurydice is allowed to leave, however the condition of she not looking at Orpheus is set. Clearly, due to the strong love that unites them, they fail to obey him and Eurydice is taken back to Hell.
"He stood and saw how, on the strip of road among the meadows, with a mournful look, the god of messages silently turned to follow the small figure, already walking back along the path, her steps constricted by the trailing graveclothes." pg 48
Once again we see how the gods, even those that classify under the evil side, are mercy-less of the mortals and their suffering. What did Hades win by taking her back? Nothing at all. Nevertheless he stays firm on his decision.
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