How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #7
HERMES. Of such torment expect no end until some god appears to be your successor in suffering and is willing to go down to rayless Hades and the dark depths of Tartarus. Make your decision in the light of that, because this threat is no invention, it has all too certainly been uttered. For the mouth of Zeus does not know how to lie; he fulfills every word he speaks. So consider and reflect: do not suppose that self-will is ever better policy than prudence. (1016-1035)
Here, Hermes is outlining the horrible punishments that Prometheus will have to endure as a way of threatening him. At the same time, he argues that Prometheus is not being "prudent," that his actions show that he is not in his right mind, and that he's therefore not making a true sacrifice. But isn't there a risk that Hermes's plan will backfire? Doesn't giving Prometheus an extensive decision of the horrors that await him just make him more capable of making an informed decision—and thus making a true sacrifice?
Quote #8
PROMETHEUS. let him cast my body headlong into black Tartarus, whirling it down in cruel compulsion: come what may, he won't kill me. (1040-1053)
Prometheus is ready to suffer any torture Zeus can imagine, because he's chosen this course of action. That, Shmoopers, is a real sacrifice.
Quote #9
CHORUS. [moving closer to PROMETHEUS] Say something else; give me advice that will actually persuade me, because that was certainly not a tolerable suggestion that you trailed past me. How can you advise me to behave like a coward? I am willing to stay with him and suffer what I must […]. (1054-1068)
Now the Chorus is stepping up—inspired by Prometheus's words, they say that they are willing to sacrifice themselves too. Aw, isn't that sweet? Admirable as it may be, we have to wonder why they're doing it. Is it solidarity for their friend, or solidarity for his cause? If they're just doing it because they like Prometheus, isn't that just a little dim-witted?