Author: Erlang Shen
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Reflections on Love in Hadestown A few months ago, I finally caught a showing of the acclaimed Tony-winning musical Hadestown, and it was the key dramatic moment that truly validated the experience. The musical reimagines the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in a gritty, dystopian present fraught with hungry artists and environmental disarray. It opens…
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The tales of Fionn Mac Cumhaill are ingrained in Irish mythology, captivating the imaginations of many since childhood. Known alternatively as Finn McCool, the stories that celebrate his legendary escapades abound, stretching from the enchanting Giant’s Causeway to the remarkable Salmon of Knowledge. This article delves deeply into the life and adventures of this iconic…
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Character Analyses from the Iliad Achilles Achilles, the renowned Greek hero, is the offspring of the immortal sea goddess Thetis and the mortal Peleus. As the commander of the Myrmidons, he stands out in the Iliad as the most formidable warrior, possessing an almost mythical invulnerability except for his heel, the part of his body…
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Grannus, the Celtic God, plays a crucial role in Celtic mythology, representing the elements of the sun, healing, and light. His reverence grew throughout Europe, influenced by Roman cultural practices, particularly visible in the communities surrounding the thermal springs of Aquisgrán in Germany. Grannus is commonly recognized through his association with horses and a chariot…
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Quirinus, an enigmatic deity from ancient Rome, has origins that remain somewhat unclear. Revered alongside Jupiter and Mars since Rome’s early days, he is closely linked to the Quirinal Hill, embodying the protection of the Roman citizens as well as the city’s mythical founder. The Origins of Quirinus Quirinus, as indicated by his name, is…
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Montu, also known by various names such as Mentu, Monthu, and Menthu, was a prominent deity associated with the sun and warfare in ancient Egyptian mythology. The etymology of his name is believed to link to the concept of nomadism. His primary centers of worship included locations within the Theban nome, especially in Armant (Hermonthis),…
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Aker: The Celestial Guardian of Ancient Egypt Ancient Egyptian mythology is rich with fascinating deities, among which Aker, the god of the horizon, stands as a significant figure. He represents the dual aspects of the horizon and serves as both a protector and guide. The lore surrounding Aker reveals a wealth of insights into the…
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Nechtan: The Water Deity of Celtic Lore Previously, we explored the figure of Boann, the goddess of rivers. Now, we shift our focus to her consort, the Celtic deity Nechtan. In Celtic mythology, Nechtan takes on various interpretations, but for our discussion, we will concentrate on the tales specifically naming him Nechtan. He occupies a…
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Achilles, a prominent figure in Greek mythology, is renowned as a legendary hero whose story exemplifies extraordinary strength, bravery, and unwavering loyalty. However, he is famously known for his singular vulnerability – his “Achilles heel.” The tale of his valor and exploits is captured in Homer’s epic poem, the Iliad, which recounts the events surrounding…
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The representation of the goddess Venus resonates throughout art history as a quintessential symbol of femininity, illustrating an array of forms and interpretations across various time periods. Described as the embodiment of beauty and love, Venus encapsulates both the gentler and more perilous sides of womanhood. Anna Berkutsia, a digital curator known for her insightful…