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Greek mythology comprises a collection of narratives about the deities, heroes, and rituals integral to ancient Greek culture and Classical antiquity. While elements of fiction were acknowledged by critical thinkers of the era, like the philosopher Plato, the broader populace tended to regard these myths as factual representations of their beliefs. This rich tapestry of…
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The tale of Prometheus has been woven throughout history, evolving with the perspectives of various authors over time. Its origins can be traced back to Hesiod’s Theogony, and subsequent writers have expanded upon the myths, transforming them into deep philosophical explorations. Notably, Greek playwright Aeschylus centered his dramatic works around Prometheus. The only surviving part…
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Introduction to Chiron, the Centaur Chiron, known as Kheiron in Greek mythology, was the most prominent and wise among the Kentauroi, or Centaurs, a unique group of half-horse men hailing from Thessaly. Distinct from his wild brethren, Chiron was an immortal being, fathered by the Titan Kronos (Cronus) and the nymph Philyra. Rhea’s unexpected intervention…
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Hestia: The Virgin Goddess of the Hearth and Home Hestia, representing the essence of home and hearth, played a pivotal role in Greek mythology as the virgin goddess governing both domestic and civic fire. The sector of community meals and bread-making fell under her purview, as she oversaw the preparation of family feasts. As the…
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Selene: The Titan Goddess of the Moon Selene, known as the Titan goddess of the moon, is often depicted riding a horse or steering a chariot pulled by winged horses across the night sky. The representation of Selene includes a crescent moon atop her head or as part of her shining garment. In some stories,…
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Uranus: The Primordial Sky God in Greek Mythology Uranus (Ouranos) is recognized as the primordial deity of the sky in Greek mythology. The ancient Greeks conceptualized the sky as a vast dome of solid brass adorned with stars, its edges resting upon the farther extremities of the flat earth below. Thus, Uranus personifies the sky…
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Hades, the Overlord of the Underworld Hades, known as Haides in Greek mythology, stands as the sovereign of the underworld and the deity of the dead. He was central to the funerary customs and guaranteed the deceased their right to burial. Besides ruling the shadows of the deceased, Hades represented the concealed riches of the…
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Selene: The Moon Goddess of Greek Mythology Selene, known in Greek mythology as the Titan goddess of the moon, is a captivating figure often depicted gracefully riding sidesaddle on a horse or controlling a chariot pulled by two winged horses. Her head often features a radiant crown that embodies her lunar essence or a crescent…
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Artemis, the Olympian goddess, represented hunting, the wilderness, and wild creatures in ancient Greek mythology. She is also celebrated as a protector of childbirth and girls until marriage age, paralleling her twin brother Apollo, who serves as the guardian of boys. While both deities could bring sudden death and disease—Artemis targeting women and girls, and…
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Ares: The Olympian God of War Ares, recognized as the powerful Olympian deity presiding over war, embodies the notions of battle fervor, bravery, and societal order. In ancient Greek art, representations of Ares typically highlight him as either a seasoned, bearded warrior equipped for combat or a youthful figure without a beard, adorned only with…