Author: Erlang Shen
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Simon Stone’s adaptation of Euripides’ Medea breathes new life into the classic tale, intertwining timeless themes of betrayal and emotional turmoil with a modern narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences. In this version, Medea’s husband, Jason, has forsaken her and their two children for Glauce, daughter of King Creon. Ensnared by despair and powerlessness, this…
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Belenus, revered as the Celtic god of fire, stands out as an essential deity in ancient Celtic worship across various regions. His significance is underscored by attributes linked to radiance and healing, portraying him as a symbol of brightness associated with renewal and fertility. Celebrated particularly during pastoral activities and the Beltane festival, Belenus represents…
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Apollo: The Olympian God of Prophecy and Arts Apollo, often referred to in Greek mythology as Apollon, is one of the revered Olympian gods, embodying a multitude of aspects including prophecy, music, healing, and the arts. He is typically portrayed as a youthful figure, characterized by his beardless face, long hair, and is commonly associated…
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Hades: The Ruler of the Underworld Hades, whose name translates to “the Unseen,” is a prominent figure in ancient Greek religion, recognized as the god of the underworld. The offspring of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, he is also the brother of renowned deities including Zeus, Poseidon, Demeter, Hera, and Hestia. The visualization of the…
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Often compared to the mythological phoenix of Greek heritage, the Bennu bird represents themes of renewal in ancient Egyptian culture. If you are passionate about mythology or simply interested in historical narratives, the stories surrounding the Bennu offer fascinating insights into the spiritual and cultural fabric of ancient Egypt. Understanding the Bennu Bird The Bennu…
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Ptolemaic Period Sculpture: The Bes-Image Located in Gallery 131 at The Met Fifth Avenue, this remarkable sculpture represents the deity known as Bes, specifically characterized as a “Bes-image.” While Bes is often depicted in its likeness, the actual name of the figure remains unidentified on this statue. From the Kushite Period, stylized representations of Bes…
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The Enigmatic Nyx: Goddess of Night Nyx, the personification of Night, was a significant figure within Greek mythology, belonging to the primordial gods that arose at the onset of creation. As a daughter born from Khaos, the embodiment of the Void, Nyx’s union with Erebos, the representation of Darkness, gave rise to Aither (Light) and…
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The term “FIDES” is often incorrectly understood as ‘faith’; however, its interpretation in Roman culture diverges significantly from Christian connotations. For the Romans, FIDES represented a crucial aspect of an individual’s integrity within public affairs and social engagements, akin to the notion of ‘good faith’. This concept encapsulated reliability, implying a mutual trust essential for…
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The Adventures of Heracles: A Hero’s Journey Heracles, famed in Greek mythology, was instructed by the Delphic Oracle to undertake twelve monumental tasks on behalf of King Eurystheus of Mycenae. These epic quests are preserved through ancient Grecian art, exemplified by 2,500-year-old vase paintings showcasing Heracles’ exploits. Additional Exploits of Heracles Beyond the renowned twelve…
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Scáthach: The Fearsome Warrior Queen of Ancient Irish Mythology Scáthach, a mythic warrior renowned for her teachings, played a vital role in shaping the legendary hero Cú Chulainn’s fighting skills. Revered in Irish mythology, she is often referred to as “The Shadow.” Hailing from a formidable castle on the Isle of Skye, Scáthach dedicated her…