In the realm of ancient Roman mythology, Pluto emerged as the deity governing the Underworld, presiding over the domain of the deceased. Often referred to as Dis Pater or Orcus, Pluto was the Roman equivalent of the Greek god Hades. He was portrayed as a serious and somber figure, emblematic of death and the afterlife. A notable tale associated with him is that of his abduction of Proserpina, also known as Persephone in Greek lore.
Who Was Pluto?
Pluto is chiefly recognized as the Roman representation of the Greek god Hades. The etymology of the name Pluto suggests associations with wealth, indicating a perception of him as incredibly rich, with treasures buried beneath the earth – from gold to precious gems. As the ruler of the underworld, Pluto’s dominion allowed him easy access to these riches.
In contrast to the Greek Hades, who instilled a profound fear among mortals—where uttering his name could invoke dire consequences—Pluto did not evoke a similar level of dread within Roman society.
Pluto in Roman Mythology
The narratives surrounding Pluto in Roman myths differ slightly from those found in Greek accounts. Over time, the name Hades became synonymous with the entire Underworld itself, prompting the ancient Romans to adopt the name Pluto when referencing the ruler of this realm. While the two deities share origins, Pluto is often viewed as the more benevolent figure responsible for tending to the afterlife.
Dis Pater
As the ancient Roman language evolved, the term Dis Pater, the original god of the underworld, faded from common usage. The rise of Greek language influenced how the Romans referred to their deities. The term ‘Dis’ translates to ‘the rich’ in Latin, and Pluto is derived from the Greek ‘Plouton,’ meaning the same. This linguistic transition resulted in Pluto becoming the god associated with the Underworld.
The Story of Pluto
The Origin of Pluto
The beginning of Roman mythology depicts a primordial darkness from which the goddess Terra emerged, producing Caelus, the sky god. They birthed a race of powerful giants known as the Titans. The youngest Titan, Saturn, revolted against his father to claim dominion over the universe, ultimately marrying Ops and fathering the first Olympian gods. To safeguard his rule, Saturn consumed each offspring at birth until Ops concealed her sixth child, ensuring that Jupiter escaped this fate. When Jupiter grew up and confronted Saturn, the latter regurgitated his swallowed children, including Pluto.
How Did Pluto Become the God of the Underworld?
The subsequent Clash of the Titans, known as the Titanomachy, nearly resulted in the universe’s destruction. The defeat of the Titans led to the Olympians establishing a new order on Mount Olympus. Jupiter, upon dividing the realms among his siblings, assigned Pluto the underworld, a role that seemed outside his character.
Pluto as Ruler of the Underworld
In his subterranean palace, Pluto rarely ventured to the surface, overseeing the souls condemned to eternal life in his realm. The Roman Underworld was imagined as a domain for malevolent souls, directly governed by Pluto.
The Underworld
The Underworld comprised five sections partitioned by rivers symbolizing distinct emotions and states of being. Acheron represented woe, Cocytus lamentation, Phlegethon fire, Styx unbreakable oaths, and Lethe forgetfulness. The parallels between Pluto’s domain and the concept of Satan in Christianity are noteworthy.
Cerberus
Pluto’s function as the sole overseer of the Underworld presented a daunting challenge, which was alleviated by the presence of Cerberus—a three-headed dog that deters trespassers and ensures the deceased’s entrance. Cerberus restricted access to the living, although the legendary hero Orpheus once managed to charm the beast with his music.
Underground Wealth
Pluto was known as the god of wealth, explicitly denoted in his name. However, distinctions exist regarding the true deity of wealth in Roman myths, as the minor god Plutus, who influenced agricultural abundance on Earth, holds different significance than Pluto.
Pluto and Prosperina
Prosperina, identified as Persephone in Greek culture, was notably beautiful, leading her mother to conceal her from divine pursuits. However, Pluto’s longing led him to abduct her while she gathered flowers—a tale that emphasizes passion and desire. Jupiter’s subsequent quest to find his daughter revealed his fierce protection, prompting negotiations that led to Persephone consuming six pomegranate seeds in the Underworld; this act bound her to dual existence—six months above ground and six below, representing the cycle of seasons.
Pluto’s Appearance
Pluto’s visual representation often embodies a mystique. His depictions favor a pale complexion, adorned with regal attire, including a staff, a chariot pulled by dark horses, and frequently accompanied by Cerberus.
A Multi-Faceted God
Pluto’s character is richly nuanced with various intertwined narratives differentiating him from Hades and Plutus. While he governs a somber realm, he was not uniformly perceived as malicious, and his role within Roman culture was more multifaceted than feared. His courtship of Prosperina reflects a different narrative of love, rather than mere abduction, showcasing the complexities of this ancient deity.
