Theseus and the great deception of the labyrinth

Myths were transmitted from generation to generation through expressions in sculpture, ceramics, and other artistic forms present in both daily and religious life. These images and symbols shaped the collective imagination, perpetuating the myth without the need for direct indoctrination. The story of Theseus and the Minotaur has historically been used in political contexts to benefit associations between polises or to justify certain hegemonies of themselves. 

The Minotaur was born from the unnatural union between Pasifae, wife of King Minos, and a white bull sent by Poseidon. As Dimitris Doulgeris, a student of Classical Philology, says, "this union illustrates the consequences of challenging the divine and natural order, giving birth to a monster that represents barbarism and irrationality". Theseus embodies reason and order because he is the one who frees Athens from dominance and moves to Crete. Therefore, this scene represents the triumph of reason over chaos and barbarism. The labyrinth also plays an important role in this narrative: it symbolizes humanity's difficulties and obstacles to achieving a civilized society.

Theseus killed the Minotaur and escaped, following the thread to freedom | Image generated with Gork

Since Ancient Greece, this myth has not only been a heroic story but also served to transmit deep messages, as is the case with wanting to embody the importance of order and reason. Thus, numerous works of art depict scenes from "Theseus and the Minotaur", reinforcing society's cultural identity and values ​​.

Beyond transmitting this idea of ​​civilization, different Athenian leaders quickly appropriated a myth so well known to all Greeks since they "manipulated it to justify their political reforms and the expansionist program that was already developing as the Athenian Maritime Empire".

This myth has deeply influenced Western culture, serving as a metaphor for human progress from irrationality to a more ordered and civilized society. As Dimitris Doulgeris observes, "this story has exemplified the relevance of heroism, bravery and intelligence in the construction of advanced societies".