The expression "Fire of Prometheus" was heard by everyone, but not everyone knows what it means and where it came from.
Knowledge of such an expression speaks of a high culture of man, the study of mythology, erudition. Therefore, for a complete understanding of what the phraseology of “Prometheus fire” is, you need to remember the content of the myth and analyze the events of a beautiful story about the hero and the gods who displayed him.
Who is Prometheus?
Prometheus fire (or Prometheus fire) is a phrase whose roots go back to ancient Greek mythology. According to the myth, Prometheus was a hero who helped the supreme god Zeus, but at the same time served ordinary people. He helped people learn to read, write, build ships and equip life.
The myth of Prometheus
In order to make life easier for people, Prometheus stole fire from the gods and carried it to ordinary people. This plot of myth can be considered not only literally, but also allegorically. That is, fire can symbolize the light of knowledge, which dispels fears, self-doubt and humility before unknown events of the future. Therefore, the meaning of phraseology “Prometheus fire” is closely connected with intellectual knowledge and creativity.
The punishment of Prometheus was very severe: Zeus ordered that Prometheus be chained to a rock, to which an eagle will fly every day to peck Prometheus liver, which has grown over and over again. The torture was endless, and only the recognition of Prometheus, who would become a mother for the son of Zeus, capable of overthrowing the mighty father, could stop her.
People grateful to Prometheus worried about their hero, but could not help him. Only Hercules could free Prometheus and kill the eagle.
Phraseologism
The meaning of phraseology “Prometheus fire” is the desire to achieve high noble goals aimed at the benefit of other people through self-sacrifice. Based on the fact that Prometheus helped people develop science and art, the phrase is applied mainly to activities in these areas of life.
In a simplified sense, the meaning of phraseology “Prometheus fire” is the courage and nobility of man. So it can be said of a person who seeks to work on the enlightenment of society, supports creative aspirations, spending his time and energy on it to the detriment of his own success.
Today, such an expression is not used often. But the beauty of the myth and the deep meaning of the phrase is worth it to delay it in your vocabulary and use it when appropriate in everyday life.