Mythological Origins of the Elegy:

Although there are several variations of the myth, the Greek poet, Apollonius, and the Roman poets, Virgil and Ovid, generally tell a similar story. Orpheus was a supremely talented musician, who played the lyre and composed his own songs and lyrics. Orpheus fell in love with Eurydice, and they were married. Shortly after the wedding, Eurydice was bitten by a snake in a meadow and died. Orpheus was overwhelmed with grief and determined to journey to the Underworld and try to bring Eurydice back. He hoped to win her back by charming the lords of Hades with his songs. Orpheus was successful in obtaining permission to take Eurydice back to the world, but there was a condition: he could not look back at her as she followed him. As Orpheus and Eurydice went through the gates of Hades, Orpheus glanced back to make sure Eurydice was behind him. Instantly, Eurydice vanished back into the Underworld. Orpheus was not permitted to return and spent the rest of his days wandering and playing his lyre, mourning Eurydice.

Camille Corot, "Orpheus Leading Eurydice," 1861, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Scan by Mark Harden.