The Sword of Damocles

                                                                                            Source: Greek Legend

Summary in English

'The Sword of Damocles' is a Greek Legend. Represents the ancient background of time when there was autocracy in Sicily. In addition, this story is a satirical that teaches us that boundless property and power does not necessarily bring true happiness and satisfaction.  Dionysius was the king of Sicily in the 4th century B.C. He was famous for his harshness towards people. Most of the people had a fear that they would suffer at the hands of the king if unfortunately they would fall in his power. Therefore, he was disliked by almost all the people because of his cruelty and autocracy. Similarly, he was equally fearful thinking that his enemies would kill him anytime if they got an opportunity because he held mighty power by inspiring terror.

In spite of his autocratic/tyrannical nature, Dionysius loved the company of intellectual people who were famous in science, letters and arts. Like other kings, King Dionysius had also a great number of flatters. Among them, the most famous was Damocles. He used to sing the false song about the glory, honor, destiny, power and wealth of the king. He used to say that kings, in general, have great happiness and comfort. He said that there could be no greater happiness in the world than to sit upon the throne of Sicily.

However, Dionysius was very careful, self-conscious of all kinds of dangers and flattery. Tired from the flattery of Damocles, Dionysius decided to teach him a good moral lesson. Then, king said that he would offer Damocles the position of the king of Sicily. He was sure that Damocles would resign from the throne very soon. Damocles sat on the throne with a heavy golden crown just over his dead. He was proud of being the king of Sicily. He was given the same honor by the people there that King Dionysius used to get.

Despite his excitement and extreme happiness, Damocles turned his head all around and found a naked sword hanging by a thin thread from the ceiling right above his head. He was nervous and frightened. He realized that the sword might fall upon him anytime and that he would be killed immediately. He wanted to give up the throne but the king did not permit. He had to stay in the throne until the feast was over. He requested the king to shift him to another place, but the king refused it. Damocles had to remain in a state of terror for hours. During that period, he felt that death was dancing in front of his eyes. He thought that he was going to be killed. Anyway, Dionysius requested Damocles to have courage to face danger. He was very coward by heart.

When the feast was over, he immediately left the throne and became glad to live the life of ordinary people. He learnt that a man can't remain happy despite having ultimate wealth. He also understood that it is easy to flatter to powerful and honorable people but it is difficult for them to maintain the position. He said that all kings and people of high positions live under the same risk of life. So, power and wealth does not necessarily bring the happiness and satisfaction.