When Odysseus and his men landed on Circe’s island Elpenor was the first to jump ashore. Odysseus warned him not to drink too much wine but he did not listen. Later when all the men were transformed into pigs Elpenor was the only one who did not have a sty to sleep in. He slept on the ground outside and died there.
Circe told Odysseus to go to the Underworld and speak with Elpenor’s spirit. She gave him instructions on how to find the entrance to the Underworld and how to make an offering to the spirit so that he could cross the River Styx.
Odysseus found Elpenor’s spirit in the Underworld and told him how he had died. Elpenor was grateful that Odysseus had come to speak with him and he asked to be buried properly when Odysseus returned to Circe’s island. Odysseus promised to do so and he kept his word.
In what play is Elpenor a character?
Elpenor is a character in Sophocles’ play Antigone.
How does Elpenor die?
Elpenor dies after falling off a roof while drunk.
Is Elpenor’s death considered a suicide?
While Elpenor’s death is accidental it is often considered a suicide because he was intoxicated at the time.
How does Antigone react to Elpenor’s death?
Antigone is devastated by Elpenor’s death and blames herself for not being able to save him.
What is the significance of Elpenor’s death?
Elpenor’s death is significant because it shows the consequences of disobeying Creon’s orders.
What does Elpenor’s death teach Antigone?
Elpenor’s death teaches Antigone that disobedience has grave consequences.
How does Elpenor’s death affect Antigone’s relationship with Creon?
Elpenor’s death affects Antigone’s relationship with Creon because she blames him for Elpenor’s death.
How does Elpenor’s death foreshadow the events of the play?
Elpenor’s death foreshadows the events of the play because it sets the stage for Antigone’s conflict with Creon.
What does Elpenor’s death symbolize?
Elpenor’s death symbolizes the death of Antigone’s innocence.
What theme is represented by Elpenor’s death?
The theme of Elpenor’s death is the consequences of disobedience.
