In a prologue that sets the scene for the action, Thespis, Momus and Thalie announce the subject of the piece: a comedy mocking the folly of men and recounting the trap set by Jupiter to cure Juno of her jealousy. The trap: to make the frog Platée believe that Jupiter is in love with her. Jupiter’s highly official declaration of love for Platée is delivered by Mercury, the faithful and reasonable messenger of the gods. When the god appears before Platée – first in the form of a donkey, then an owl – the nymph calls on the birds of her marshes, who cause Jupiter to flee. Luckily, the handsome god quickly returned and declares his love for poor Platée, saying he even intends to marry her. However, amid preparations for the wedding, Juno, in a fit of jealousy, interrupts the proceedings and insists that Jupiter return with her to the heavens. The humiliated Platée realises the trick that has been played on her. She returns to her marshes to the ironic taunts of the chorus.