Daedalus and Icarus – Key Concepts Review

Fourteen question-and-answer flashcards covering the main events, characters, lessons, and cultural themes of the myth of Daedalus and Icarus.

What important lesson can we learn from the story of Daedalus and Icarus?

Always follow instructions and listen to advice; ignoring them can lead to dangerous or fatal consequences.

Why did Daedalus make wings for himself and Icarus?

To escape from the island of Crete, where King Minos had trapped them, by flying over the sea that Minos controlled.

What ultimately happened to Icarus in the myth?

He flew too close to the sun, the wax on his wings melted, and he fell into the sea and drowned.

How did Daedalus feel after Icarus fell into the sea?

He was heart-broken, wept for his son, and later named the surrounding waters the ‘Icarian Sea.’

Why did King Minos imprison Daedalus and Icarus on Crete?

Because Daedalus had helped Theseus escape the Labyrinth after killing the Minotaur, angering King Minos.

What two warnings did Daedalus give Icarus before they took flight?

Do not fly too high or the sun will melt the wax, and do not fly too low or the sea spray will weigh the wings down—stay in the middle path.

What does the story reveal about pride or overconfidence?

Excessive pride or overconfidence, like Icarus’s exhilaration in flight, can cloud judgment and lead to ruin.

After Icarus’s death, how did Daedalus gain his own safety?

He continued flying alone and eventually reached Sicily, where he was welcomed by King Cocalus.

What materials did Daedalus use to construct the wings?

He carefully arranged feathers and bound them together with wax to create lightweight, aerodynamic wings.

What is the Icarian Sea, and why is it significant in the myth?

It is the stretch of sea where Icarus fell and drowned, named in his memory as a permanent reminder of the consequences of ignoring advice.

How does the myth illustrate the relationship between father and son?

It shows Daedalus’s deep care and protective guidance for Icarus, as well as his profound grief when his son disregards that guidance and dies.

Which Greek values or cultural beliefs are reflected in the story of Daedalus and Icarus?

The importance of wisdom, self-control, obedience, and respecting human limitations instead of succumbing to hubris.

Was Daedalus a good father? Support your answer.

Yes; he provided a means of escape, warned Icarus of dangers, and mourned him deeply—showing both care and responsibility.

What could Icarus have done differently to survive the flight?

He could have obeyed his father’s instructions and flown a middle course, avoiding both the scorching sun and the damp sea spray.