Question

How does the author create surprise in this myth?

Answer 1

In Damon and Pythias, the author creates surprise when Dionysius pardons Damon and Pythias.

Damon and Pythias symbolizes friendship. In the myth, Pythias is accused of conspiring against Dionysius and condemned to death. In that way, Damon offers himself to be held hostage and also to die in his friend's stead if Pythias does not return. However, when Phythias returns to save Damon's life, Dionysius is so moved by their friendship and their loyalty that he ends up freeing both of them. That is the 'surprise effect' that the author of the myth creates.