Most of the events in Jason's early life are driven by someone's ambition for something they don't already have. Baby Jason is thrust out into the wilderness when his power-hungry uncle, Pelias, steals the throne of Iolcus from Jason's father, Aeson. Next, it's Jason's turn to be ambitious. When he comes of age, he sets off for Iolcus to give Pelias what's coming to him and to claim his birthright. Later on, it's Jason's ambition to become a famous hero that drives him to accept the Quest for the Golden Fleece.

1. Compare and contrast Pelias's and Jason's ambitions. How are their goals similar or different?
2. What are the ambitions of the other characters in the story? Aeson? Alcimede? Chiron?
3. What would you say is the difference between good ambition and bad ambition?
4. What is your ambition? What do you want most in the world, and why do you want it?