Question

Дослідження 8. 3 міфами про подвиги Геракла пов'язані деякі фразеоло- гічні вирази: авгієві стайні; страшний, як цербер (кербер). Дослідіть їхнє походження. Що вони означають у прямому (в міфі) й переносному значеннях?​

Answer 1

The Origin and Meaning of Phrases Related to the Labors of Hercules

The labors of Hercules are a series of tasks that the Greek hero Hercules had to complete as a punishment for killing his wife and children. These labors have become the subject of many myths and legends, and several phrases and expressions have emerged from these stories. Let's explore the origin and meaning of two such phrases: "авгієві стайні" (Augean stables) and "страшний, як цербер" (as fearsome as Cerberus).

1. Авгієві стайні (Augean stables): The phrase "авгієві стайні" (Augean stables) refers to a situation or task that is extremely dirty, chaotic, or difficult to clean up. It originates from one of Hercules' labors, where he was tasked with cleaning the stables of King Augeas in a single day. These stables housed a vast number of cattle and had not been cleaned for many years.

According to the myth, Hercules accomplished this seemingly impossible task by diverting two rivers, Alpheus and Peneus, to flow through the stables and wash away the accumulated filth. This labor symbolizes the power of determination, ingenuity, and resourcefulness in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.

In a metaphorical sense, the phrase "авгієві стайні" (Augean stables) is used to describe a situation that requires a massive effort to clean up or resolve. It implies a task that is overwhelming, complex, or deeply entrenched, often involving a significant amount of work or effort to bring order or improvement.

2. Страшний, як цербер (as fearsome as Cerberus): The phrase "страшний, як цербер" (as fearsome as Cerberus) refers to something or someone that is extremely frightening, menacing, or formidable. Cerberus is a three-headed dog in Greek mythology that guards the entrance to the underworld. Hercules encountered Cerberus during his twelfth labor, where he was tasked with capturing the fearsome creature.

Cerberus was known for its ferocity and strength, making it a formidable opponent. Hercules managed to overpower Cerberus and bring it to the surface, showcasing his bravery and strength. The phrase "страшний, як цербер" (as fearsome as Cerberus) is used to describe something or someone that evokes a similar sense of fear, intimidation, or danger.

In a figurative sense, the phrase can be used to describe a person, situation, or thing that is exceptionally intimidating, powerful, or difficult to overcome. It emphasizes the magnitude of the fear or challenge faced.

Overall, these phrases derived from the labors of Hercules have become idiomatic expressions in various languages, including Ukrainian. They serve as metaphors to describe challenging or intimidating situations, drawing on the heroic feats and mythical creatures encountered by Hercules in his legendary adventures.

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