the falling action occurs after the climax of the story, which is the moment when Orpheus turns around to look at Eurydice as they are exiting the Underworld.

1 answer

You're absolutely correct! In the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the climax occurs when Orpheus, despite being warned not to look back at Eurydice as they leave the Underworld, turns around. This moment of doubt and longing leads to tragic consequences, as Eurydice is pulled back into the Underworld, forever lost to him.

Following this pivotal moment, the falling action depicts Orpheus's immediate grief and despair. He is left alone to navigate his sorrow and the emotional aftermath of his decision. The story then often continues to show his subsequent journey, as he mourns the loss of Eurydice and reflects on the choices he made. The falling action emphasizes themes of love, loss, and the human condition, illustrating how Orpheus copes with the heartbreak of losing Eurydice a second time. Ultimately, it leads to the resolution, where Orpheus retreats from the world, haunted by his memories and the weight of his tragic mistake.

If you have more questions about this myth or its themes, feel free to ask!