Orpheus (1950)

Jean Cocteau: Narrator

Quotes 

• [first lines] 

  Narrator : The legend of Orpheus is well-known. In Greek mythology, Orpheus was a troubadour from Thrace. He charmed even the animals. His songs diverted his attention from his wife Eurydice. Death took her away from him. He descended to the netherworld and used his charm to win permission to return with Eurydice to the world of the living on the condition that he never look at her. But he looked at her, and was torn to pieces by the Bacchantes. Where does our story take place... and when? A legend is entitled to be beyond time and place. Interpret it as you wish...