Author: Erlang Shen
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The ancient Romans viewed the world as animated by a divine essence (numen, plural: numina) that infused every object with life. This notion extended even to inanimate entities such as rocks and trees, reflecting a rich history of animistic belief that considered various elements of nature to possess their own spirits. These spirits were seen…
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Ah, the intertwined concepts of mother figures and mythology. It is a theme that resonates through numerous mythological narratives across cultures. Prominent examples include Isis and Mut from Egyptian mythology, Parvati in Hindu traditions, and Rhea in Greek mythology, with her Roman counterpart being Ops. The presence of a mother goddess at the forefront of…
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Learning how to pronounce the name Niamh correctly can be quite important, especially if you encounter it in everyday conversation or in literature. Niamh, a name with deep Irish roots, is often pronounced as “Neev.” This name, derived from Old Irish, is predominantly used as a feminine given name and is associated with characteristics such…
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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…