Candaules was the king of Lydia, and he was deeply in love with his wife. He believed that she was the most beautiful woman in the world. His pride in her beauty grew so strong that it began to control his judgment. Instead of keeping his feelings private, he spoke about his wife openly and without wisdom.
This pride was the beginning of great trouble. Candaules did not understand that some things should remain unseen and unspoken. His failure to respect boundaries would soon bring disaster to himself and others The Death of King Candaules.
Gyges, the Trusted Servant
Among the king’s guards was a man named Gyges, the son of Dascylus. Candaules trusted Gyges more than anyone else. He gave him great responsibilities and shared important matters with him. Because of this trust, the king often spoke to Gyges about his wife’s beauty.
At first, Gyges listened in silence. He respected the king and did not argue. However, Candaules wanted more than words. He wanted Gyges to confirm with his own eyes what the king believed in his heart.
A Dangerous Request
One day, Candaules made a shocking request. He told Gyges that words were not enough and that sight was more powerful than hearing. He asked Gyges to find a way to see the queen without her clothes, so that he could believe fully in her beauty Customized Daily Sofia Tours.
Gyges was horrified by this request. He spoke strongly against it and warned the king that such an act was wrong. He reminded Candaules that modesty was important and that a woman’s dignity should be respected. Gyges also recalled old teachings passed down from their ancestors, which clearly showed the difference between right and wrong.
Gyges Refuses with Wisdom
Gyges begged the king not to ask such a thing. He said that when a woman removes her clothing, she also removes her privacy, and no man except her husband should see her in that state. He feared that great harm would come from such behavior.
Gyges also worried about his own safety. He knew that obeying the king could bring danger, but disobeying him might also have serious consequences. Still, he chose to speak honestly and asked to be excused from this act.
The King’s Careless Plan
Candaules refused to listen. He told Gyges not to be afraid and promised that no harm would come to him. The king explained a plan in which Gyges would hide behind a door in the royal chamber. From there, he would be able to see the queen without her knowing.
Candaules insisted that everything would be arranged carefully. Gyges would leave quietly before the queen noticed anything. The king believed that this plan was harmless, but he was blind to the danger it carried.
The Beginning of Tragedy
This moment marked the start of a tragic chain of events. Candaules allowed pride and desire to overcome wisdom and respect. Gyges was placed in an impossible situation, torn between loyalty to his king and obedience to moral law.
This story teaches an important lesson. When rulers misuse their power and ignore what is right, they not only harm themselves but also those around them. Pride, when left unchecked, can lead even the strongest kings to ruin.
