In Greek mythology, Orpheus attempted to rescue Eurydice from the Underworld. Eurydice was his wife, and her death began the tragic journey that made Orpheus one of mythology’s most celebrated musicians.
After Eurydice died from a snakebite, Orpheus descended into the realm of Hades. His music moved the Underworld’s rulers, Hades and Persephone, who agreed to release Eurydice on one condition: Orpheus had to walk ahead of her and not look back until both had reached the upper world.
Near the surface, Orpheus looked back to check whether Eurydice was following. Because he had broken the condition, Eurydice was taken back into the Underworld. The story is often treated as a meditation on love, grief, trust, and the limits of human determination.
Orpheus is also associated with the founding figure of Orphism, a religious tradition in ancient Greece. His story is distinct from that of Theseus and Ariadne, another famous myth involving a journey and separation.