Author: Erlang Shen


  • Andromeda Constellation: Myths, Stars, and the Wonders of the Universe

    The Andromeda constellation graces the northern heavens, nestled between the recognizable W shape of Cassiopeia and the Great Square of Pegasus. As one of the 48 constellations cataloged in Claudius Ptolemy’s 2nd-century work, the Almagest, Andromeda’s namesake is the enchanting princess Andromeda, offspring of Queen Cassiopeia and consort to the legendary hero, Perseus. This celestial…

  • The Legendary Tales of Fionn Mac Cumhaill in Irish Mythology

    The figure of Fionn mac Cumhaill is a prominent character in numerous narratives within Irish mythology. Many of us in Ireland grew up enchanted by tales of this legendary hero, often known by the names Finn McCool or Finn MacCool. From the fabled Giant’s Causeway to the mystical Salmon of Knowledge, the number of stories…

  • Donn: The Keeper of the Dead in Irish Lore

    Donn of the Dead: Guardian of the Underworld in Irish Mythology In the realm of folklore, tales that traverse generations often transform, adapting to the evolving narratives of their times. Such is the case with Donn of the Dead, a formidable figure associated with the afterlife, who presides from his formidable tower, where his three…

  • Renenutet: The Evolution of a Protective Goddess Renenutet, known also by names like Rennut, Thermouthis, and Hermouthis, is an ancient snake-goddess imbued with protective powers whose significance shifted throughout Egyptian history. Her status transitioned from watching over the king to becoming a symbol of agricultural prosperity. She is typically portrayed as a cobra, adorned with…

  • The Mythological Legacy of Poseidon

    The Olympian God of the Sea: Poseidon Overview Poseidon, an Olympian deity, presides over the sea, earthquakes, floods, and horses. He is typically envisioned as a robust, bearded man wielding a trident, symbolizing his authority over watery domains. Myths and Legends of Poseidon From his very beginnings, Poseidon’s existence was fraught with challenges; he was…

  • Posted By Paula Morris Sunday, February 24, 2013 Updated: Monday, February 25, 2013 I never considered myself “phobic”. I believed I adopted a sensible approach rather than being fearful, especially when avoiding dark alleyways or wearing stilettos on icy paths. While I wasn’t fond of spiders, my reaction while photographing a severely irritated eye with…

  • The Legendary Heroism of Heracles

    Heracles stands as one of the most renowned heroes from Greco-Roman mythology. He was often depicted as the offspring of Zeus and Alcmene, who was the granddaughter of Perseus. Zeus had vowed that the next son born into the lineage of Perseus would ascend to the throne of Greece. However, due to a scheming act…

  • Ceres: The Roman Goddess of Agriculture and Fertility

    Ceres: The Roman Goddess of Agriculture and Fertility Overview Ceres stands as the Roman goddess of grain and fertility, particularly in agriculture. Her influence stretches beyond the realm of crops to encompass motherhood, lawfulness, and the safeguarding of the Roman commoners, known as the plebeians. Much of what is known about Ceres draws heavily from…

  • The Evolution and Essence of Tragedy in Literature

    Tragedy: A Profound Exploration of Human Suffering Tragedy represents a distinguished branch of drama characterized by its serious and dignified exploration of sorrowful or catastrophic events fostered by a heroic figure. While the term is often generalized to denote any disaster or misfortune, its more precise definition pertains to artistic expressions that regard with earnestness…

  • The Roman God Pluto: Lord of the Underworld and Wealth

    Overview Pluto, the primary deity of the Roman underworld, held a significant position among the chthonic gods. He represented not only the dead but also governed the wealth hidden beneath the earth in ores, metals, and precious stones. Renowned for his immense power, Pluto also played a crucial role in determining mortal destinies. Often associated…