Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Triton and Proteus explained
This chapter introduces Triton, the son of Neptune and Amphitrite, who serves as his father's trumpeter, and Proteus, another son of Neptune known for his wisdom, knowledge of the future, and ability to change his shape at will.
What happens
This chapter introduces Triton, the son of Neptune and Amphitrite, who serves as his father's trumpeter, and Proteus, another son of Neptune known for his wisdom, knowledge of the future, and ability to change his shape at will.
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Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of Tristram’s brief reunion with…
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Key passages
“Triton was the son of Neptune and Amphitrite, and the poets make him his father’s trumpeter.”
Triton, the offspring of Neptune and Amphitrite, is depicted by poets as the one who blows the trumpet for his father.
Introduces Triton's role as a herald of the sea.
“Proteus was also a son of Neptune. He, like Nereus, is styled a sea-elder for his wisdom and knowledge of future events.”
Proteus, another son of Neptune, is called a sea-elder because of his wisdom and ability to foresee the future, similar to Nereus.
Highlights Proteus's prophetic wisdom.
“His peculiar power was that of changing his shape at will.”
His unique ability was to transform his form whenever he wished.
Describes Proteus's shape-shifting power.
