Jason and the Golden Fleece

Analyze three instances in which Apollonius deploys Homeric characters, tropes, or plot patterns. How does Apollonius use them, and what is their importance to his epic?

Describe what kind of hero Jason is, drawing on at least three specific examples from the poem. Why does Apollonius characterize him the way he does?

What is the significance of the golden fleece? What does it represent?

How might historical audience’s awareness of Euripides’ tragedy Medea impact their understanding of the character of Medea and her relationship with Jason?

Why is Apollonius concerned with the geography of myth?

Pick two other heroes on the quest with Jason; analyze their contributions and significance to the quest.

Discuss the significance of the clump of Lydian soil that Triton gives to Euphemos.

In Book 3, Medea tells Jason, “In Hellas, no doubt, honouring agreements is a fine thing; but among men Aietes is not as you describe Minos, Pasiphae’s husband, nor am I the equal of Ariadne. Therefore do not speak of friendly hospitality” (91). What does she mean by this?