The poem is based upon the myth of Prometheus in Greek history. Prometheus is known as the Titan of Fire, who tricked and stole fire from Zeus to provide civilization to humans. He was praised for his sacrifice and was denoted as a champion for humankind.
This text describes the “sad reality” of the humans as they suffered on Earth. Meanwhile, the Gods refused to take “pity on portals” and give them fire to help them become civilized. Prometheus then decided to take actions in her own hands and steal the fire from the Gods. However, he is split between his “pain” from his punishment and his “determination” to help humanity. Alternately, Zeus is portrayed as being a monster, inflicting “anguish” upon the people and making Prometheus suffer.
In the end, Byron highlights that the only crime Prometheus committed was “to act with kindness” – a feat that the supposedly beloved and merciful Gods could not. The poems ends with the inspiring message that humans have “the power to change” their destiny.
