Daphne and Apollo

Daphne and Apollo are figures from Greek mythology illustrating themes of desire, pursuit, and transformation. Apollo, the god of music, prophecy, and the sun, was struck by Cupid’s arrow and fell deeply in love with Daphne, a nymph skilled in archery who valued her independence. Daphne rejected Apollo’s advances, seeking to remain free. As Apollo pursued her, Daphne prayed for help and was transformed into a laurel tree by her father, a river god, enabling her to escape. Their story highlights the complex dynamics of unreciprocated love and the power of transformation as a means of escape.