This article examines the myth of Alcyone and Ceyx in Ovid's Metamorphoses (Book 11) as a narrative of transformation driven by divine pity, contrasting with Apollodorus' punitive version in Bibliotheca (1.7.4). Through a comparative analysis with Plutarch's esoteric-naturalistic account in De Sollertia Animalium (35–36) and earlier sources such as Alcman's Fragment 26, the study posits that Ovid's redemptive metamorphosis symbolizes eternal union and spiritual immortality, potentially echoing proto-monotheistic or Christian concepts of grace, resurrection, and divine intervention. Etymological explorations (from ἅλς + κύω, "sea-conception") and ornithological critiques challenge the halcyon's identification with the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), emphasizing its mythical role over biological reality. Later receptions in Dante (Divina Commedia, Convivio, Vita Nova) and Carducci (Cèrilo in Odi Barbare) illuminate enduring themes of fidelity, rebirth, and transcendence. By bridging pagan esotericism with monotheistic sensibilities, the myth offers insights into identity fluidity and eternal life in ancient culture.
Immortality and the Legend of Alcyone: Metamorphosis as a Pathway to Eternal Life
Meledandri, Giovanni
Writing – Review & Editing
2026-01-01
Abstract
This article examines the myth of Alcyone and Ceyx in Ovid's Metamorphoses (Book 11) as a narrative of transformation driven by divine pity, contrasting with Apollodorus' punitive version in Bibliotheca (1.7.4). Through a comparative analysis with Plutarch's esoteric-naturalistic account in De Sollertia Animalium (35–36) and earlier sources such as Alcman's Fragment 26, the study posits that Ovid's redemptive metamorphosis symbolizes eternal union and spiritual immortality, potentially echoing proto-monotheistic or Christian concepts of grace, resurrection, and divine intervention. Etymological explorations (from ἅλς + κύω, "sea-conception") and ornithological critiques challenge the halcyon's identification with the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), emphasizing its mythical role over biological reality. Later receptions in Dante (Divina Commedia, Convivio, Vita Nova) and Carducci (Cèrilo in Odi Barbare) illuminate enduring themes of fidelity, rebirth, and transcendence. By bridging pagan esotericism with monotheistic sensibilities, the myth offers insights into identity fluidity and eternal life in ancient culture.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
