 Another execution was staged as a cruel twist on the story of Orpheus , who supposedly charmed the plants and flowers with his song after he lost Eurydice . In the version presented at the inaugural games , the tree and animals were charmed just as in the story , except for an " unappreciative " bear which tore the minstrel to pieces . It is likely that the harmless creatures were released first to give the impression of the story proceeding as planned before the bear was released to dispatch the unfortunate criminal forced into the role of Orpheus , whose probable restraint prevented him fleeing . Ironic reinterpretations of the myths may have been popular : in addition to Orpheus ' failure to charm the beasts , Martial mentions " Daedalus " being torn apart by another bear , mocking him with the words " how you must wish you had your feathers now " . 
