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Polish Literature for Children & Young Adults Inspired by Classical AntiquityParandowska, Irena, Opowieść o Ikarze i Dedalu [A Tale about Icarusand Daedalus]. “Płomyczek” 11/12, 01–30.06.1981, p. 307.Genre: Adaptation of myth.Summary: The myth of Daedalus and hisson Icarus. Daedalus was a famous ancientcraftsman, a skillful architect, who built thesplendid castle–Labyrinth for Minos, the kingof Crete — as a safe home for his son Minotaur— a man with the head of a bull. BecauseDaedalus was the only person who knew thesecret of the Labyrinth, Minos decided to getrid of him. To save his own and his son’s lifeDaedalus decided to escape from the island byflying. He constructed wings for his son andhimself. Unfortunately, Icarus did not heed his father’s advice and warnings,was so careless and excited with the flight, that he forgot about the fragility ofthe wings and as he came to close too the Sun, the wax on the wings melted —he fell down to his death.The story is relevant to the period in which it was published — strong aspirationsto freedom were particularly poignant during the repressive Communistregime. Deadalus’ and Icarus’ flight is a symbolic expression of human dreamof leaving the Earth, escaping into freedom, as well as human striving forhigher values; it emphasizes the importance of the sky and space exploration.Daedalus personifies a citizen undesirable in the eyes of the authorities,because he knows too much. His son Icarus is a teenager, who dies becausehe was disobedient and careless – a strong moral lesson for young people.Classical themes: The author presents a famous myth about ancient characters— Daedalus and Icarus, who embody people longing for freedom and adecent life. Irena Parandowska depicted Icarus and Daedalus as the first pilotsin the world history. King Minos is a cruel and uncompromising tyrant who273