Metamorphoses · Chapter
Transformation of Lychas Into a Rock explained
In a fit of rage and pain from the poisoned shirt, Hercules (Alcides) hurls Lychas into the Euboean Sea.
What happens
In a fit of rage and pain from the poisoned shirt, Hercules (Alcides) hurls Lychas into the Euboean Sea. As Lychas flies through the air, he transforms into a rock, which still bears his name and human-like form.
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 Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Telethusa’s de…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Transformation and Metamorphosis
Lychas is physically transformed into a rock as he is hurled through the air, a literal metamorphosis.
- Violence and Revenge
Hercules, driven by pain and rage, violently punishes Lychas for his role in delivering the poisoned gift.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“Alcides snatch'd him, as with suppliant face He strove to clasp his knees, and beg for grace: He toss'd him o'er his head with airy course, And hurl'd with more than with an engine's force: Far o'er the Euboean main aloof he flies, And hardens by degrees amid the skies.”
Hercules grabbed Lychas as he begged for mercy, then threw him with immense force over the Euboean Sea. As Lychas flew, he gradually hardened into stone.
Describes the violent act of throwing Lychas and his subsequent transformation into rock.
