Question

How does the two types of reactions to Pan’s birth foreshadow what would ultimately become of him?

Responses

His mother was the only unhappy one, as all gods and humans adored him..

His mother adored him but the gods feared him, just as the adults would adore him but children would fear him.

His birth was met with both happiness and fear, just as humans would both find happiness and fear with him.

His mother feared him but the gods found joy in him, just as the adults would fear him but children would find joy in him.

Answer 1

His birth was met with both happiness and fear, just as humans would both find happiness and fear with him." This answer highlights the dichotomy of emotions surrounding Pan's birth and how this foreshadows his complex nature. The fact that both happiness and fear are associated with Pan's birth suggests that he will evoke both positive and negative feelings from those around him, as he grows up. This is in line with Pan's character in mythology, where he is often depicted as both mischievous and benevolent, and as a god of both joy and terror.