Neith and the Birth of Creation in Ancient Egypt We are excited to have Egyptologist Dr. Edward Scrivens from The Egypt Exploration Society join our 14-day journey, “Queens and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt.” This remarkable tour delves into ancient Egyptian history through the lens of powerful women who wielded influence. To set the stage, Dr.…
Goibniu: The Clever Smith of Irish Mythology Goibniu, also known as Gaibhne, is a figure steeped in Irish myth, symbolizing the art of smithing and craftsmanship. The name Goibniu translates to something resembling “Clever Smith,” reflecting his foundational role in ancient Irish culture. He is recognized through various monikers in folklore, including Gobaun Seer, Goban…
Overview of the Morrígan: Goddess of War and Fate The Morrígan is a captivating figure in Irish mythology, known for her associations with war, death, and fate. She emerges prominently in tales surrounding great battles, where she offers prophecies and protection to both heroes and deities. Often portrayed as a raven circling the battlefield, she…
In anticipation of the upcoming video game Black Myth: Wukong, which is set to release on August 20, 2024, I have compiled a comprehensive guide to the abilities of Sun Wukong from the classic novel Journey to the West (Xiyouji, 西遊記), first published in 1592. This guide is intended for fanfiction writers, artists, and anyone…
A Showcase of Ancient Surgical Tools The catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE effectively sealed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under a thick layer of ash and pumice. When excavated centuries later, items buried under this volcanic material were found to be remarkably well-preserved. Among the rescued artifacts, surgical instruments were…
Hercules, often regarded as a legendary figure, was indeed born a mortal, though his pedigree is intertwined with divine lineage. His father, Zeus, reigns as the supreme deity of ancient Greek mythology, while his mother, Alcmene, was a descendant of the esteemed hero Perseus. This makes Hercules’s background as fascinating as his feats, being a…
The deities of the Celtic pantheon, known as the Tuath Dé Danann, emerged from the Otherworld and played a pivotal role in ancient Ireland’s mythology. They were revered for their formidable power, successfully defending against the invaders known as the Fomorians and imparting their wisdom to subsequent generations. Among this group, Macha is recognized for…
Overview of Heracles Heracles, known as the son of Zeus and the mortal Alcmene, stands as a prominent figure in Greek mythology, celebrated as both a hero and a demigod. Born from Zeus’ numerous affairs, he attracted the wrath of Hera, Zeus’ wife, who relentlessly sought to make his existence tumultuous. Among his myriad acts…
Growing up in Ireland, I was often enchanted by the stories of Cú Chulainn that filled my childhood evenings. The vibrant realm of Irish mythology provided a rich tapestry of legends, and Cú Chulainn was a standout figure for me. The thought of a youthful hero taking on fierce armies and mystical beings from the…
Greek mythology encompasses a rich body of narratives concerning deities, heroes, and cultural rituals among the ancient Greeks and persists as a vital component of Classical antiquity. While some philosophers, like Plato in the 5th–4th century BCE, acknowledged the fictional aspects of these tales, the general populace perceived them as truthful accounts. Over centuries, Greek…