In Book 6 of the Dionysiaca, Dionysus, not yet born, appears in proto-form in the figure of Zagreus. This baby ascends to Zeus’ throne, brandishes his weapons, but is torn to pieces by the Titans, transforming into a kaleidoscopic range of figures as he attempts to escape (Dion. 6.155-205). This is not, however, the end of Zagreus’ story. Nonnus tells us at the end of this episode that he will soon begin again, finding new life as Dionysus (6.175).
