Describe the journey of Dionysus to Hades

Answer

Describe the journey of Dionysus to Hades. [NU: 2016, 19, 21] ★★★

“The Frogs” (405 BCE), written by Aristophanes (c. 446–386 BCE), is one of the most famous comedies of ancient Greece. The play tells the comic journey of Dionysus, the god of wine and drama, to the Underworld. He goes there to bring back the dead poet Euripides to save Athens. The journey is full of fantasy, humor, and wisdom. Through this comic adventure, Aristophanes presents deep truths about art, morality, and society in an entertaining and meaningful way.

Decision to Visit Hades: The play opens with Dionysus and his servant Xanthias on their way to Heracles’s house. Dionysus complains about the poor state of drama in Athens. He decides to go to Hades to bring back Euripides. He says, 

“Forget my courage. Show me the highway … to Hades.” 

Dionysus wears Heracles’s lion skin and carries a club to look brave, but his cowardly nature makes the scene funny. His foolish disguise and serious mission create laughter and irony together.

Visit to Heracles: Dionysus asks Heracles for directions to the Underworld. Heracles laughs loudly, seeing Dionysus dressed like him. Yet, he helps by explaining the road to Hades. He tells Dionysus about the dangers of the journey—the lake, monsters, and gates of Pluto’s palace. Dionysus listens with fear but pretends to be brave. His fear of death makes him comic and human. Aristophanes uses this meeting to prepare the audience for the funny and adventurous journey that follows.

Crossing the Lake: Dionysus reaches the lake and meets Charon, the ferryman. Charon allows only Dionysus to board the ferry, not Xanthias. Dionysus has to row the boat himself. Soon he hears the Frog-Chorus singing,

“Brekekekex koax koax Brekekekex koax koax.” 

Their loud croaking annoys him, and he argues with them. The song is rhythmic and comic. It shows Aristophanes’s love for music and sound. The crossing scene is full of fantasy and fun.