In Greek mythology, the ferryman Charon is a significant figure who transports souls across the River Styx to the underworld. He is often depicted as a grim and silent figure, guiding the deceased to their final resting place. To ensure passage, souls must pay him with an obol, a small coin placed in their mouths for the journey. Charon is associated with themes of death and the afterlife, serving as a bridge between the living and the dead. His role emphasizes the importance of proper burial rites in ancient Greece, as those without payment would wander the shores of the Styx for eternity.