Cupid is often visualized as a cherubic infant with a bow and arrow, but this image has evolved over time. Before the Romans embraced and renamed him, and long before he became synonymous with Valentine’s Day, Cupid was originally known as Eros, the handsome deity of love in Greek mythology.
Cupid in Greek Lore
One of the earliest references to Eros dates back to around 700 B.C., when Hesiod mentioned him in “Theogony.” In this text, Eros is presented as a primordial deity emerging from the cosmic egg. However, interpretations of his lineage differ among ancient sources, with some claiming he was the offspring of Nyx and Erebus, Aphrodite and Ares, or even Iris and Zephyrus; others cite Aphrodite as both his mother and Zeus as his father and grandfather.
Eros wielded a bow accompanied by a quiver filled with arrows: golden arrows that incited desire and leaden arrows that inspired aversion. His actions affected both divine beings and humans, leading to an array of emotional turmoil. A famed tale recounted later by Roman writers tells of Cupid shooting a golden arrow at Apollo, causing him to fall passionately in love with the nymph Daphne; simultaneously, a leaden arrow was aimed at Daphne, leaving her repulsed by Apollo’s advances.
The Tale of Cupid and Psyche
In another poignant myth, Cupid’s mother, Venus (Aphrodite), grew envious of the stunning mortal Psyche. She instructed her son to make Psyche fall for a hideous creature. However, Cupid found himself captivated by Psyche and decided to marry her with the stipulation that she must never see his face. Psyche, unable to contain her curiosity, eventually looked upon him, resulting in Cupid’s angry departure. After a lengthy quest across the world, Psyche was ultimately reunited with Cupid, granting her the divine blessing of immortality.
During the Archaic era, Eros was depicted as an alluring immortal enticing both humans and deities alike. As time progressed into the Hellenistic period, his portrayal shifted towards that of a playful and slightly mischievous youth. This transformation was further solidified in the 19th century when the Victorian era popularized Valentine’s Day. They embraced the cute, cherubic version of Cupid, leading to the images we associate with the holiday today.
