Disobeying the god of gods, Zeus, a mere titan with the power of foresight challenges the powers of the heaven that ultimately leads to his destruction. Prometheus Bound, a play by Aeschylus, portrays the punishment of this titan, Prometheus. Prometheus receives reprimand because he turns against Zeus" demands by giving the gift of fire to man. In turn, Zeus orders the titans, Might and Violence, to bind Prometheus to a rock for all eternity. Through the viewpoint of Prometheus, the chorus of Oceanids, and Might, Aeschylus clearly develops the theme of the penalty for the corruption of power.
First of all, to understand the unlawful penalty in which Prometheus endures, the most substantial viewpoint comes from his very own eyes. In fact, Prometheus protests the injustice of his position when he states, "The gifts I gave to man have harnessed me beneath this harsh duress"(6). Seemingly, Prometheus receives castigation for his kind acts towards man instead of gratitude. By disobeying Zeus, Prometheus risks his well being for the sake of helping mankind. Overrun by his feelings of injustice, Prometheus conveys the plight of his misfortunes in hopes of a sympathizer. Thus, Prometheus explains, "Such are the bonds that the new-throned Lord of blest hath designed"(6). Though he cannot alter his fate, Prometheus details his dilemma for those who feel pity for him. Explaining first to the chorus of Oceanids, the titan tells how Zeus orders him to be placed upon the rock. Moreover, Prometheus continues with "I am debarred from pity; and thus I stand/ Tortured, to Zeus a spectacle of shame"(11). Suffering for his actions, Prometheus rejects any who try to help him. For Prometheus, the punishment reflects the injustice of Zeus" power. Prometheus exists as an example for all others who might dare to disobey the gods. In the myth of Prometheus, Zeus feels remorseful for the punishment he bestows upon Prometheus.
