For the sketch during campfire night, participants are required to elaborate on the Greek Myth. Participants must NOT plot the story according to the original myth. Instead, participants must create a fictional story on how Artreus plotted he’s revenge.
Tragedy. For generations, a curse was suspended above the house of Atreus like a heavy cloud. It was ignited by Tantalus, son of Zeus, a favored one among the gods.
The Murder : He was the only mortal allowed to dine with the gods on Mount Olympus, a privilege not to be taken lightly. However, Tantalus’ appreciation of this privilege was appalling. He took advantage of the gods by stealing their nectar and sharing the secrets he was told with other mortals. Nonetheless, his worst act was far more tragic. This act was the killing of his own son.
Tantalus, arrogant as he was, hated the gods and wanted to test the wisdom of the Olympian deities. He thus invited them to his house for an abundant feast. For the main dish, Tantalus had his son, Pelops, killed and cooked in a stew. Why would Tantalus commit such an act? His motive was to expose the gods as cannibals and reveal his own wisdom. Ignorant of Tantalus’ plan the gods arrived at the banquet and sat patiently, waiting for the food to be served. When the deities set eyes on the plates of food they knew at once what was before them and they were horrified, all, that is, except Demeter. Inasmuch as she was grieving for her daughter, she was oblivious to Tantalus’ acts, and unconsciously ate some of the meat—Pelops’ shoulder.
The Punishment : The gods were outraged by this inhumane joke and as proper punishment for him, Zeus exiled his son to Tartarus where he would suffer forever. In Tartarus, the fruit grew rich and abundant, but each time Tantalus would move to take a bite from one of the fruits the wind would blow the sweet treats away. When he quenched for thirst, reaching down to the clear refreshing spring water to drink, it vanished. Thus, he remained here for an eternity.
The Reincarnation : In the meantime, the gods brought Pelops back to life again, but they could not restore his shoulder. Therefore, the deities replaced it with a piece of ivory.Putting aside this devastating event, Pelops was the one descendant of Tantalus who escaped the curse. However, Pelops’ sons were not so lucky.
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