Page:Star Lore Of All Ages, 1911.pdf/415



the legend of the sacrifice of Andromeda previously related Perseus figures as the hero, and hence we find his constellation situated close to the groups that represent the unfortunate maiden and the ferocious monster that sought to destroy her.

We can never be sure whether the constellation suggested the legend, or the legend the constellation. It may be, as one authority points out, that the legend was suggested by the fact that the constellation Perseus, rising before Andromeda, seems to deliver it from the night, which might well be depicted as a monster, such as appears in the figure of the constellation Cetus.

It seems, however, as if there were a deeper significance in this story that the stars illustrate, of a conflict between man and beast, with a human sacrifice at stake, and the eventual triumph of man.

We find among the stellar figures many conflicts of this nature depicted, and in no case do we find man overcome in the struggle that he is engaged in.

Hercules and Ophiuchus are seen respectively trampling underfoot or holding securely gigantic reptiles. The Archer is about to slay the Scorpion, and Orion threatens undismayed the advancing Bull. Perseus, flying from his victory