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…
Hera, known as Juno in Roman mythology, stands as the esteemed queen of the Greek gods and the devoted wife of Zeus. Embodying the quintessential attributes of womanhood, she served as the goddess of marriage, family, and guardian of women during childbirth. Despite her unwavering loyalty to Zeus, Hera is often portrayed as possessive and…
In the intricate landscape of Irish lore, Nuada stands as a significant and iconic figure, recognized as the inaugural monarch of the Tuatha Dé Danann, a legendary group of divine entities believed to have once governed Ireland. His moniker, “Airgetlám,” meaning “Silver Hand/Arm,” encapsulates a narrative filled with victories, sorrow, and an unwavering quest for…
A few years back, at the onset of the pandemic, Roman Mars crafted an episode of 99% Invisible where he explored the design features of his own home, reflecting the shared experience of limited outside access during that time. This episode has since been recognized as a significant showcase of the series. Mars has since…
Neptune, the Roman deity of the sea, is the sibling of both Pluto and Jupiter. He bears a striking resemblance to his Greek counterpart, Poseidon. Neptune is often intertwined with the concept of fresh water, and historical references to him appear as early as 399 BC. His name, which translates to “moist” in Latin, is…
A Pathway to Triumph: The Daru Staircase The Daru Staircase at the Louvre Room 703, Denon Wing, Level 1 Perched majestically at the apex of the grand Daru staircase, the Winged Victory of Samothrace stands as one of the Louvre’s quintessential masterpieces. This striking setting was intentionally curated to honor and amplify this emblematic work…
Thank you to everyone who reached out with their favorite mythological figures! It has been a delight to engage with so much enthusiasm for these timeless stories. I have chosen to begin with the very first character suggested by a reader: the celebrated centaur Chiron, a wise mentor to many heroes. It’s important to note…
Ancient Egyptian religion is a complex tapestry woven from indigenous beliefs that span from the predynastic era of the 4th millennium BCE until the fading of traditional practices in the early centuries CE. These religious beliefs and rituals formed an integral part of Egyptian society, particularly during the historical period starting around 3000 BCE. While…
Greek mythology encompasses the collection of narratives involving deities, heroes, and ancient Greeks’ rituals, reflecting their worldview and beliefs. Though many of these myths contained elements of fiction, distinguished philosophers like Plato critiqued them in the 5th–4th centuries BCE, revealing a tension between popular belief and critical examination. Despite this, the tales were widely regarded…
The Unwavering Journey of Odysseus Odysseus, renowned as a remarkable hero and cunning strategist, returns home after playing a pivotal role in the Trojan War, epitomized by the innovative Trojan Horse that helped bring about its conclusion. His path back to Ithaca, however, turns into a ten-year odyssey filled with hardships and lost companions, leading…