The following contains spoilers for KAOS, now streaming on NetflixKAOS' saddest modern reimagining of a classic Greek myth highlights one of the most important aspects of the ancient stories.KAOSis a compelling modern remix of Greek myths, set in a version of the world where culture is defined by the worship and influence of Gods like Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon. The show’s plot, centered on godly machinations that steadily hint at the true circumstances of the afterlife and the powers of the Gods, is steadily revealed in the build-up toKAOS' season 1 ending.
The show’s balance of sardonic humor and epic storytelling is great, butthe best aspect of the show is the quietly far more humanistic focusof the storuy. This is clearly seen in the show’s saddest subplot, which remixes a classic myth from a modern perspective and quietly connects it to the overarching storyline of the show. It’s also a quietly great representation of a vital aspect of the original mythology that is often underappreciated in the analysis of those stories, and wonderfully reflected byKAOS' story and characters.
Kaos' Furies Explained: Who They Are In Greek Mythology
Though they only appear briefly onscreen in Kaos, the Furies have an important role in both Greek mythology and the plot of the Netflix show.
KAOS' Orpheus Storyline Is The Show’s Saddest Storyline
Orpehsus' Trip To The Underworld Is Heartbreaking
KAOS' Orpheus storyline is an effective reimagining of the original myth, transforming the story into a compelling modern tragedy. While the driving elements ofKAOSare the machinations of Olympus and a mystery unraveling in the underworld, Orpheus' efforts to rescue his wife remain a particularly human aspect of the series. Following the death of his beloved wife,Orpheus betrays her by keeping Riddy’s golden coin, taken out of a selfish desire to be reunited. This unwittingly spares her the fate of other souls sent through the Frame and gives him time to venture to the Underworld to restore her.
On paper, it’s an impressive showing of love from Orpheus, but one that the audience knows is doomed. Even when he does what no mortal before has and reaches her,Orpheus discovers Riddy had been planning on leaving himbefore her death and has even found a new love with Caeneus. It’s a blunt and sober moment, especially once Riddy says ending their relationship was the “right thing” to do. It’s a very modern way to end the Orpheus storyline in season 1 ofKAOS, and is one of the best examples of the show remixing the original Greek mythology.
How KAOS' Orpheus Compares To The Original Mythology
Even As The Stories Differ, Orpheus' Trek To Underworld Is For Love And Doomed To Fail
The tale of Orpheus and his wife Eurydice is memorably tragic, and one that is referenced throughoutKAOSseason 1. Orpheus appeared in multiple myths, but his most famous involves the death of Eurydice. Heartbroken, Orpheus ventured into the underworld with the protection of the Gods. This is similar to the way Dionysus serves as a patron for Orpheus inKAOS. In most versions, Orpheus crosses the River Styx and gets the chance to meet Hades and his bride, Persephone. In the original myth, Orpheus plays a song for the pair and impresses them enough to free Eurydice.
InKAOS, Orpheus fails to impress Hades. However, Persephone (who admits she’s a fan of his music) allows the pair to escape. The most creative way mythology is referenced inKAOSis an emotional beat after they escape the underworld. Heartbroken at the discovery that Riddy no longer loves him,Orpheus initially refuses to look at her. In the original myth, the one requirement to restore Eurydice is that Orpheus not look at her until they’ve escaped the Underworld. He failed, sending her back to the land of the dead and condemning Orpheus to a tragic and lonely fate.
KAOS Understands An Underappreciated But Vital Fact About Greek Mythology
KAOSRemembers That Human Stories & Failings Are Key To Greek Mythology’s Enduring Qualities
The Pantheon of Gods is crucial to Greek Mythology, butan often underappreciated aspect of those stories is the importance of the humans. It’s through characters like Orpheus that Greek mythology instills morals and lessons into their tales. The tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice is a reflection on the power of love and the inescapable nature of death, with a touch of man’s hubris in Orpheus' fateful decision to ignore Hades' final task. To its immense benefit,KAOSremembers that crucial fact about Greek Mythology and keeps the focus on the humanity of the characters and their stories.
Daedalus
Mat Fraser
KAOSremixes the Gods and humansalike with new versions of their classic morals. Stories like the Minotaur and characters like Prometheus are remixed to reflect broken vows and shattered bonds. The humanity of the characters is very much at the center of the show, as seen in Orpheus' tale. While the story is intrinsically connected to the overarching plot ofKAOS, it’s also a powerful reimagining of the core message of the story, filtered through a far more modern perspective on relationships. The saddest plotline inKAOSis a good showcase of what makes the show work so well.
Kaos
Cast
Kaos is a dark comedy series starring Jeff Goldblum as Zeus. Zeus is enjoying being the King of the Gods, until he starts to self-destruct after thinking a wrinkle on his forhead is a sign of an ancient prophecy. His situation becomes even worse when Prometheus develops a plan to take Zeus down once and for all.
