Question

The following quote is about: The Story of Prometheus and Pandora's Box One way to interpret the gods in Greek myths is to see them as personifications of forces in nature like the sea or lightning, or of abstract concepts like wisdom or forethought. Yet Baldwin says this kind of reading is "an error" that takes the charm out of these tales and reduces their "precious gold into utilitarian iron." Why might Baldwin believe this? What happens to characterization or other literary elements in the story if we read the gods as personifications instead of literally?

a) Baldwin believes this because it enhances the charm of the tales.
b) Baldwin believes this because it adds depth to the gods' character.
c) Baldwin believes this because it reduces the charm of the tales.
d) Baldwin believes this because it simplifies the stories.

Answer 1

Baldwin believes interpreting Greek gods purely as personifications of natural forces or abstract concepts reduces the charm of the tales, advocating instead for a reading that preserves their depth and narrative richness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The quote about 'The Story of Prometheus and Pandora's Box' suggests that Greek gods should not merely be seen as personifications of natural forces or abstract concepts because, according to Baldwin, this interpretation strips down the rich, imaginative elements and essential charm of the tales into something purely functional. If gods were read solely as personifications, it potentially simplifies the stories and neglects the complexity and narrative richness found in their characterization and other literary elements. Baldwin appears to advocate for a reading that preserves the mythical and imaginative aspects, providing depth to the characters and maintaining the emotional impact of these stories.