three motifs that occur in the various stories. The first is the incredible proportions of the fish—far larger than most of us, skeptics that we are, could ever accept. The second is the kêtos appearing as an island that lured the sailors to go ashore, only to have them beat a quick retreat to their ships when their activities roused the beast. And finally, there is the theme of being swallowed by the sea monster, whether individually, in groups, or by the shipload.
