KAOS’ most heartbreaking Greek mythology is why I liked the show so much

The following contains spoilers for KAOS, now streaming on NetflixKAOS‘ Sadest modern reimagining of a classical Greek myth highlights one of the most important aspects of the ancient stories. KAOS is a compelling modern remix of Greek myths, set in a version of the world where culture is defined by the worship and influence of gods like Zeus, Hera and Poseidon. The show’s plot, centered on pious machinations that steadily reveal the true circumstances of the afterlife and the powers of the Gods, is steadily revealed in the build-up to KAOSSeason 1 ending.

The show’s balance of sardonic humor and epic storytelling is great, however The best aspect of the show is the quiet much more humanistic focus of the story. This is evident in the show’s dark subplot, which remixes a classic myth from a modern perspective and quietly connects to the show’s overarching storyline. It is also a quiet great representation of a vital aspect of the original mythology, which is often underappreciated in the analysis of the stories, and wonderfully reflected by KAOS‘ History and characters.

KAOS’ Orpheus storyline is the saddest storyline of the show

Orpheus’ trip to the underworld is heartbreaking

KAOS‘ Orpheus storyline is an effective reimagining of the original myth, transforming the story into a compelling modern tragedy. While the driving elements of KAOS Are the machinations of Olympus and a mystery unraveling in the underworld, Orpheus’ stand to save his wife remain a special human aspect of the series. After the death of his beloved wife, Orpheus betrayed her by keeping Reedy’s golden coin, taken out of a selfish desire to be reunited. This unwittingly spares her the fate of other souls sent by the Frame and gives him time to venture to the underworld to restore her.

On paper, this is an impressive display of love from Orpheus, but one that the audience knows is doomed. Even as he does what no mortal has done before and reaches out to her, Orpheus discovers that Reedy had planned to leave him before her death and even found a new love with Caeneus. It’s a candid and sobering moment, especially since Reedy says ending their relationship was the “right thing” to do. It’s a very stylish way to end the Orpheus storyline in season 1 of KAOSAnd is one of the best examples of the show remixing the original Greek mythology.

How KAOS’ Orpheus compares to the original mythology

Even as the stories differ, Orpheus’ trek to the underworld is for love and doomed to failure

The story of Orpheus and his wife Eurydice is memorably tragicAnd one that is referenced throughout KAOS Season 1. Orpheus appears in multiple myths, but his most famous one involves the death of Eurydice. Heartbroken, Orpheus ventured into the underworld with the protection of the gods. This is similar to the way Dionysus serves as a patron for Orpheus in KAOS. In most versions, Orpheus crosses the River Styx and gets the chance to meet Hades and his bride, Persephone. In the original myth, Orpheus plays a song for the couple and impresses them enough to release Eurydice.

in KAOSOrpheus fails to impress Hades. However, Persephone (who admits she is a fan of his music) allows the couple to escape. The most creative way mythology is referenced in KAOS is an emotional hit after they escape the underworld. Heartbroken upon discovering that Reedy no longer loves him, Orpheus initially refuses to look at her. In the original myth, the one requirement to restore Eurydice is that Orpheus not look at her until they have escaped the underworld. He failed, sent her back to the land of the dead and condemned Orphem to a tragic and lonely fate.

KAOS understands an underappreciated but vital fact about Greek mythology

KAOS Remember that human stories and failures are key to the enduring qualities of Greek mythology

The pantheon of gods is crucial to Greek mythology, however An often underappreciated aspect of these stories is the importance of the humans. It is through characters like Orpheus that Greek mythology instills morals and lessons in their stories. The tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice is a reflection on the power of love and the inescapable nature of death, with a touch of human hubris in Orpheus’ fateful decision to ignore the final work of Hades. to be of great benefit, KAOS Remember this crucial fact about Greek mythology and keep the focus on the humanity of the characters and their stories.

KAOS Remix the Gods and Humans Similarly with new versions of their classic morality. Stories like the Minotaur and characters like Prometheus are remixed to reflect broken vows and shattered bonds. The humanity of the characters is very much at the center of the show, as seen in Orpheus’ case. While the story is intrinsically connected to the overarching plot of KAOSIt’s also a powerful reimagining of the story’s core message, filtered through a much more modern perspective on relationships. The saddest plot in KAOS is a good showcase of what makes the show work so well.