The representation of Eris, the Goddess of Discord, has left an indelible mark on history, showing her as a surreal figure with a ghastly visage, fiery eyes, and tattered garments, often depicted with a concealed dagger by her side. This portrayal, while grotesque, reflects a humorous truth about the nature of divine beings. Eris’s lineage is steeped in confusion; she is believed either to be the twin sister of Ares, the god of war, and offspring of Zeus and Hera, or the daughter of Nyx, the night goddess. Her familial ties extend to various deities representing concepts like Death and Doom. Notably, she is credited with birthing allegorical figures such as Forgetfulness, Quarrels, and Lies.
In a whimsical dialogue with Mal-2, Eris revealed her fondness for ancient Greeks while cautioning against their historical accuracy, humorously attributing their tales to “indigestion.” This showcases her mischievous nature rather than any intent to be malevolent.
The Trojan War and its Aftermath
Eris’s reputation as a troublemaker led Zeus to exclude her from the wedding of Thetis and Peleus, an incident dubbed The Original Snub by Discordians. Enraged, she crafted a Golden Apple inscribed with the words “To the fairest” and tossed it into the gathering of gods. This act of mischief ignited a fierce dispute among Aphrodite, Hera, and Athena, further heightened by the involvement of other vain deities. This rivalry ultimately spiraled into the Trojan War, with the wedding day described as Setting Orange.
Early References
The term “Eris Dea discordia” first appeared in a Latin text over three centuries ago, authored by the Benedictine scholar Joanne Weinckens. The text juxtaposes Eris’s chaotic essence with the divinity of Jesus, weaving Pagan and Christian mythologies.
Modern Depictions
Eris’s legacy continues to thrive in contemporary culture, finding her way into various narratives and media, including:
- “Jubilus Eucharisticus Coelestis Sion”
- “The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy”
- “The Illuminatus! Trilogy”
- “Hercules” (TV Series)
- “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic”
- “Xena” (TV Series)
- “Harley Quinn” (DC Universe series)
Each of these interpretations of Eris presents her in distinct lights, showcasing her multifaceted character across genres.
While Eris’s character is rooted in myth, her representations are dynamic and ever-evolving, illustrating her enduring impact on storytelling.
