Author: Erlang Shen
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Aife was a striking queen of the Otherworld and a formidable warrior hailing from Scotland. Her combat skills were on par with those of the famed Irish hero, Cuchulainn. Their brief affair transpired while Cuchulainn was training under Scathach on the Isle of Skye. However, upon returning to Ireland to wed his true love, Emer,…
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The contributions of the Romans to the world are multifaceted, showcasing remarkable advancements in architecture, engineering, governance, and law. However, their legacy is also marked by a history of cultural erasure. The Romans had a tendency to assimilate cultures and traditions, shaping them in such a way that they eventually became unrecognizable. In historical terms,…
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Dukkah: A Flavorful Egyptian Nut and Spice Blend Dukkah is a vibrant Egyptian mixture of nuts and spices that introduces an exciting flavor profile and a delightful crunch to various savory dishes. This unique condiment can be likened to a more exotic twist on the popular Everything but the Bagel Seasoning. Lately, its popularity has…
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Neptune On the 1st of December, coinciding with the new moon, the Romans honored Neptune with offerings. Despite his lesser popularity in Rome compared to the Greek sea deity Poseidon, Neptune is celebrated with two annual festivals. The origins of the name Neptune can be traced back through various linguistic evolutions such as Gaelic Nechtan…
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Abarta stands as a noteworthy figure in Celtic mythology, recognized as a prominent deity linked to demons and significant events. Regarded as one of the most formidable gods of ancient Ireland, he is said to hold a status just below that of the Dagda. The meaning of his name translates to “bringer or brother of…
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A few years back, the British Museum hosted a captivating exhibition entitled Living with Gods, which addressed the idea that religion is crucial to the human experience. This notion intrigues me, especially when considering its significance—how does it enrich our lives? One aspect of religion is its role in helping us interpret our surroundings, providing…
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Zhu Ba Jie: The Pigsy of Chinese Legend Name Origin and Meaning The character Zhu Ba Jie derives his name from various components: “Zhu,” a surname meaning “pig,” “Ba,” which signifies “eight,” and “Jie,” meaning “prohibitions.” This name was bestowed upon him by Tang San Zang when he became his second disciple. The “Eight Prohibitions”…
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Overview Minerva stands as the embodiment of wisdom among the gods of Rome, revered for her intellect, craftsmanship, and artistic inspiration. She presides over all matters that require careful planning and consideration from her heavenly vantage point. In time, she was also regarded as a deity of warfare, becoming a goddess from whom strategic thoughts…
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The most comprehensive narrative of the Osiris myth comes from the works of the Greek historian and philosopher Plutarch, who lived from approximately 46 to 120 CE. While his recounting is relatively late, it aligns harmoniously with evidence derived from earlier historical periods. Osiris is renowned as the inaugural ruler of Egypt, born to Geb,…
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A rather atypical hero, Jason served as the captain of the Argonautic Expedition, embarking on the formidable quest to secure the Golden Fleece. Born to Aeson and Alcimede, his destiny to succeed his father as the ruler of Iolcus was thwarted by his half-uncle Pelias, who seized control of the throne. Fearing retribution due to…