Abstract

In the Prometheus Bound, Aeschylus sets his tragedy in a world before firm foundation of law, morality, or justice.  The entire cosmos is in turmoil, and private law (nomos) is the source of authority and the foundation for conduct.  There are also no established relations between immortals and mortals.  Zeus plans instead to destroy the mortal race.  Then Prometheus intervenes and famously steals fire for mortals.  Prometheus' punishment by Zeus is vengeful and lacking in measure.  He is treated in the same manner as Zeus' defeated enemies.  The intervention of Prometheus, however, and the intense lust that Zeus has for the maid Io forces him to bring mortals into consideration.