Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Oracle of Apis explained
This chapter discusses the Oracle of Apis at Memphis, where the sacred bull Apis gave responses based on whether he accepted or rejected food from inquirers.
What happens
This chapter discusses the Oracle of Apis at Memphis, where the sacred bull Apis gave responses based on whether he accepted or rejected food from inquirers. It explores various theories about the source of oracular responses—human contrivance, evil spirits, or mesmeric trance—and questions when pagan oracles ceased, with Christian writers claiming they fell silent at Christ's birth. The chapter includes poetic references by Milton, Cowper, Tennyson, and Byron that allude to oracles and mythological themes.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of Tristram’s brief reunion with…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter transmits knowledge about ancient oracular practices and their interpretation through history, including poetic and theological reflections.
Characters to notice
- Phoebus Apollo
Milton's 'Hymn on the Nativity' depicts Apollo leaving his shrine as the oracles become silent at Christ's birth.
Key passages
“The oracles are dumb; No voice or hideous hum Rings through the arched roof in words deceiving. Apollo from his shrine Can no more divine, With hollow shriek the steep of Delphos leaving.”
The oracles have fallen silent; no deceptive voices or sounds echo in the temple. Apollo can no longer prophesy from his shrine, and he departs from Delphi with a mournful cry.
Milton's poetic depiction of the cessation of pagan oracles at the birth of Christ.
“For then he was inspired, and from him came, As from the Pythian's mystic cave of yore, Those oracles which set the world in flame, Nor ceased to burn till kingdoms were no more.”
At that time he was inspired, and from him issued oracles, like those from the ancient Pythian cave, that ignited the world and continued to burn until kingdoms were destroyed.
Byron compares Rousseau's influence to the oracles of Delphi that sparked the French Revolution.
