Dionysus, Pentheus, and Agave Study Questions

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Bring on the tough stuff - there's not just one right answer.

1. List all the reasons that Dionysus is angry with Pentheus, Agave, and the rest of his Theban family.
2. Do Pentheus and Agave deserve the punishment that Dionysus brings down on them? Why, or why not?
3. Compare this myth with the story of the hunter Acaeton. How are they similar? How are they different?
4. What are Pentheus' reasons for trying to stop the spread of Dionysus' cult? Do you think they are good reasons? Why, or why not?
5. What are some modern parallels to the Bacchanals of Dionysus? How and where do people still engage in similar activities?
6. In what ways might the battle between Pentheus and Dionysus be symbolic of the battle within us all? Explain your answer.