Story Summary
Discover the tragic Greek myth of Apollo and Cyparissus. Learn how an accidental tragedy led to the creation of the cypress tree, the ancient symbol of grief.
Cyparissus was a beautiful youth of Chios, deeply beloved by the sun god Apollo. The boy’s constant companion was a magnificent stag, a sacred creature with golden antlers and a coat decorated with jewels, which belonged to the nymphs of Carthaea. One hot summer afternoon, while the stag lay resting in the tall grass to escape the heat, Cyparissus was practicing his aim with a javelin. Not seeing his friend hidden in the brush, he hurled his spear, piercing the stag’s heart. When he realized he had killed his most cherished companion, Cyparissus was consumed by an inconsolable sorrow. He begged Apollo to allow him to mourn forever. Despite Apollo’s attempts to comfort him, the boy's grief was so profound that his life began to fade. Granting his final wish, Apollo transformed him into the cypress tree. His blood turned to sap, and his limbs stiffened into dark, needle-like foliage, creating a living monument that would stand over graves and symbolize eternal mourning.
The Moral
Deep loss can leave an indelible mark on the soul, and nature often serves as a timeless vessel for our collective memory and grief.
“I shall mourn for you forever, as the earth mourns for the setting sun.”
Fun Fact
In ancient Rome and Greece, cypress branches were carried at funerals and placed on the doors of the deceased to signify that a home was in mourning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Apollo and Cyparissus?
The story illustrates the depth of human grief and how it can become an eternal part of the natural world. It teaches that some losses are so profound they transform the person who experiences them.
Why did Cyparissus turn into a cypress tree?
Cyparissus accidentally killed his beloved sacred stag with a javelin. Overcome by guilt and sadness, he begged the gods to let him mourn for all eternity, leading Apollo to transform him into the tree.
What was the relationship between Apollo and Cyparissus?
Apollo was the mentor and lover of Cyparissus, cherishing the boy for his beauty and spirit. Apollo tried desperately to console him after the accident, but ultimately respected his wish to mourn.
What does the cypress tree symbolize in Greek mythology?
The cypress tree is a symbol of mourning, sorrow, and the afterlife. Because of this myth, it became a common tradition to plant cypress trees in cemeteries and near gravesites.
How did the sacred stag die?
The stag was killed accidentally when Cyparissus threw a sharp javelin into a thicket where the animal was resting. Cyparissus did not realize the stag was lying there in the shade.
Who was the stag sacred to?
The stag was sacred to the nymphs of the island of Chios. It was a gentle creature that was widely known for its beauty, golden horns, and the friendship it shared with the local people.
