ter too minute to be interesting, and too meager to entertain, is the most I have attempted in these Elements of Mythology,

ets, and the Lord Jesus Christ. The fables of Greece and Rome are the most interesting and the best known, therefore they mu

ned to bring into one view, for the use of young persons, some of the most remarkable fables, and best known usages, of anci

erning the worship and conduct which he requires of human beings. The most remarkable individuals whom God appointed to inst

re heathens? How did men first learn that there is a God? Who are the most remarkable persons to whom God bas revealed himse

hip? ——— The mythology of the Greeks and Romans is that which is now most important to be known. This mythology is introduc

eeks and Romans worshipped these personifications. What mythology is most important to be known? What is classical poetry?

Who are demi-gods? What is a personification? Saturn. The most ancient divinities of the Greeks were Heaven and

. This event was the subject of general mourning, and considered as a most direful presage. If either of the vestal virgins

to Agamemnon, king of Mycenæ, who was brother to Menelaus. One of the most remarkable adventures of Jupiter was the rape of

fine description of the flight of Europa and what is it? What is the most famous statue of Jupiter at present hi existence?

lars by Jupiter. This story is told by Ovid, the Roman poet. Apollo’s most famous achievement was the destruction of the ser

llo. It was bestowed upon poets as a reward for their excellence. The most famous oracle of the Greeks was that of Apollo at

t happened to Phaeton? What were Apollo’s achievements? Where was the most famous oracle of Apollo? Who was the Pythia? What

was the most famous oracle of Apollo? Who was the Pythia? What is the most admired statue of Apollo? Mercury. See pl

resses him thus: Of all the gods that tread the spangled skies, Thou most unjust, most hateful in our eyes! [Translator : P

us: Of all the gods that tread the spangled skies, Thou most unjust, most hateful in our eyes! [Translator : Pope] The Rom

nd of metals, and the armorer of the gods. The working of metals is a most important circumstance in the civilization of man

who fawned upon, or drove them away accordingly. The Romans, in their most solemn treaties, invoked Vulcan; and the assembli

aties, invoked Vulcan; and the assemblies in which they discussed the most important affairs, were held in the temple of Vul

were held in the temple of Vulcan. At Memphis, in Egypt, also, was a most magnificent edifice raised in honour of this god,

orkmen of Vulcan; they were probably very strong men, employed in the most laborious services of society. In Peloponnesus so

eing one-eyed arose from the fact, that when they were exposed to the most violent action of the fire with which the wrought

remained behind. The meaning of this allegory appears to be, that the most beautiful and estimable things in this world, are

and estimable things in this world, are sometimes connected with the most grievous misfortunes, but that, in every afflicti

represented with wings, and with her head encircled by a rainbow. The most benevolent office of Iris was to disengage the so

apital of Attica. The gods decided that whichsoever should bestow the most useful gift upon the citizens, should give a name

gave them a horse, and Minerva an olive tree. The latter gift was the most valued by the inhabitants of Cecropia, and from t

The Parthenon, called from one of Minerva’s names Parthenos, was the most splendid and beautiful temple of antiquity, and w

erent places, where they concluded the day in feasting and mirth. The most celebrated statue of Minerva in ancient times, wa

ear at the Panathenæa? How was the Panathenæa concluded? What was the most celebrated statue of Minerva? Ceres. See

es was universal among those who received the religion of Greece. The most solemn ceremonial of that religion was the festiv

s in the heathen world; those of Paphos, Cythera, and Idalia were the most celebrated. In some places incense only was offer

to this goddess. The dove and the swan, the rose and the myrtle, the most graceful of birds, and the sweetest and most odor

rose and the myrtle, the most graceful of birds, and the sweetest and most odorous of plants, were sacred to Venus. In ancie

ory intended to show that all true affection is towards the mind. The most beautiful object in nature without life cannot be

s? What were Diana’s offices? How is Diana represented? Where was the most celebrated temple of Diana? How was the preaching

dens. He was accounted the son of Venus and Bacchus; and his image, a most hideous mis-shapen figure, was set up to frighten

es was driven by the winds, he learnt to distinguish those which blew most violently, and were of longest duration. The desc

See plate, page 87. The god Pan held a principal place among the most ancient divinities. By the poets, he is said to b

under the figure of small images of human form, and were kept in the most retired part of the edifices. Lamps, the symbols

eities? Criminals Punished in the Infernal Regions. Among the most memorable of the criminals punished in the infern

. And so heroes come to be “as gods revered.” Hercules, one of the most renowned of the heroes of antiquity, was reputed

thus exalted, he commanded him to appear at Mycenæ and perform twelve most arduous labours, Eurystheus reminding him at the

is lyre in his hand, he descended to the infernal regions, and played most delightfully when he had entered the domain of “g

Athenian descended from Erechtheus, a king of Athens. Dædalus was the most ingenious man of his time and was the reputed inv

fe was Hecuba, and he had according to the story, fifty children; the most remarkable of these were Hector, Paris, and Cassa

, the goddesses contended with each other, which of the three was the most beautiful. Discord, says the fable, threw a golde

on, and entreated him to bestow the apple upon her, who was truly the most beautiful; but they all offered him a bribe, Juno

inerva victory and glory when he should engage in war; and Venus, the most beautiful woman in the world for his wife. Venus

riam proposed a contest to the princes of Troy, and promised that the most beautiful bull in his dominions should be given a

ulous origin of Troy? Who was the last king of Troy, and who were the most memorable of his children? Where was the early li

the war, before Troy was taken. The loss was great on both sides; the most valiant of the Trojans, and particularly of the s

was cured of his wound by Machaon, the son of Esculapius, who was the most eminent physician of the Greeks. What king comma

s become a proverb. To love like Pylades and Orestes , expresses the most faithful friendship. When Orestes was grown to ma

rrive safely in Greece? Ajax. Ajax, next to Achilles, was the most valiant of the Greeks, who went to the siege of T

he western coast of Greece, was, of all the heroes of the Trojan war, most renowned for his eloquence and cunning. Ulysses w

in a sound mind. Being forced to go to the war, Ulysses performed the most eminent services, and received thanks and praises

Diomed? Hector. Hector, the son of Priam and Hecuba, was the most valiant of the Trojans. His wife was Andromache,

styanax. The parting of Hector and Andromache is justly accounted the most pathetic passage of the Iliad. Hector killed Patr

ween them was solemn and affecting. Old age in affliction touches the most obdurate heart. The wretched Priam kissed the han

g those who have been instructed in the gospel of peace. Who was the most valiant of the Trojans? What particularly exasper

discoveries in science, and had made as many useful inventions as the most intelligent of the European Greeks; but all the G

ually sees the secret thoughts of every man’s heart. He said that the most difficult thing in nature, is to know ourselves:

id that the most difficult thing in nature, is to know ourselves: the most easy to advise others; the most sweet to accompli

in nature, is to know ourselves: the most easy to advise others; the most sweet to accomplish our desires. He taught that i

m, are certain maxims. “Three things,” he was accustomed to say, “are most difficult. To keep a secret — to employ one’s tim

indus; rejected by their countrymen, and condemned to perform all the most laborious and degrading offices of life. What is

hepherds; of whose nature and actions, their sacred writings give the most extraordinary and strange representations. He is

n order to put an end to all things here. They are taught to practise most cruel, absurd, and impure rites; and that it is m

ing constantly along a heavy weight; remaining for a long time in the most painful positions of body; drowning themselves in

be devoured by tigers or alligators. Of these wretched fanatics, the most disgusting are the Fakirs, who sometimes hang the

nefit of ablution in the purifying stream. At the entrance of all the most considerable of them, is a portico, supported by

dmit the first solar ray. Of these temples, that of Juggernaut is the most celebrated. Juggernaut is the residence of the ch

ebrated shrine. The idol images in these temples are generally of the most monstrous forms that imagination can picture. Som

he ape; the rhinoceros, are blended together in groups. What are the most ancient temples of the Hindus? What is found in t

emples of the Hindu and where are they commonly erected? Which is the most celebrated of the modern temples? Who resort to t

refused it; and the subjects of other religions, being unable for the most part to read at all, and being unfurnished with t

that is, the breaking of any rule of the caste, degrades a Hindu to a most miserable condition; cuts him off from all societ

ed among such a people. The Brahmin caste holds all the others in the most humiliating subjection. The Brahmins abstain enti

of the Destinies, called Nornies; the functions of the Deities; their most remarkable adventures, and their disputes with Lo

supposed actions of Odin are represented by the Scandinavian poets as most marvellous. In battle he slaughtered thousands at

aughter of Niorder, god of the winds and seas, was represented as the most amiable of the goddesses. She was the wife of Odi

name of Hertha, she was regarded as the earth. She was worshipped by most of the German tribes. To her was consecrated the

se that were to fall in battle; to bear the invitation of Odin to the most distinguished; to conduct the souls of heroes sla

consumed them, together, by fire. Criminals were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the gods; but when these were wanti

ns. For many centuries, the Hebrews had but one place of worship, and most of them being far distant from that, they adopted

thology. The ancient religion of Iran or Persia, according to the most authentic historians, was more rational than that

ding to the most authentic historians, was more rational than that of most other nations of the world. It consisted in the b

to the discovery of the continent by Europeans, the Mexicans were the most highly civilized: and it is a truth exhibited in

ink and feel, and also what becomes of the soul after death. Thus the most intelligent become the most religious people. Hav

becomes of the soul after death. Thus the most intelligent become the most religious people. Having heard, from the revelati

ople on earth without some religion? People of what character are the most religious? What objects first dispose men to reli

dorned with statues and temples, in honour of the gods of Greece. The most celebrated temples of Rome were the Capitol, or t

sons in an order. The Flamines, Sodales, and Salii, were of them. The most distinguished of the priests at Rome, were the Po

rage: admirable as warriors, and orators; and distinguished, in their most civilized stale, for love of arts, and for magnif

ancients ever permitted to afford protection to criminals? ——— The most celebrated temples of the Greeks were those of Ap

nd statues of gold and silver, upon the temple; and, according to the most authentic computation, the value of these offerin

hens; and even in its present state of dilapidation, is accounted the most magnificent ornament of that city. The accomplish

d in the Parthenon, was esteemed among the best works of Phidias, the most renowned of the Greek sculptors. The Parthenon re

of Pentelicus, of Hymettus, of the Cyclades, of Lacedæmon, and of the most distant mountains of Greece,” contributed the mat

s read can give any idea of the effect produced in beholding it.” The most remarkable ornament of the Parthenon is the serie

marked difference of expression.” The figures thus exhibited give a most correct notion of the fashions of dress peculiar

as the marble of the Greek temples taken? Is the Parthenon one of the most beautiful specimens of the ancient architecture?

manner does the Parthenon exhibit the Grecian character? What is the most remarkable feature of the Parthenon? What is exhi

ught; so that rich people only could be benefited by them. One of the most celebrated oracles of Greece was that of Jove, at

to that place, to learn what they should do, or what they might. The most famous oracle of Greece was that of Apollo at Del

dence in oracles? How is the oracle of Dodona described? What was the most famous oracle of the Greeks? ——— [Religious S

r his manifold goodness. This disposition was always cherished by the most virtuous of the ancients. “The piety of the anci

other person’s faults, are sometimes called curses. The Greeks had a most superstitious fear of curses. Kings, parents, pri

were the weightier matters of the law. Having been shown some of the most remarkable differences between Judaism, and Polyt

did God impart the Mosaic dispensation? What was the condition of the most polished nations in respect to religion, for fift

appointed to enter that apartment of the temple which was called the most holy place, into which no other person could ente

igh-priest only entered this apartment, and that but once a year. The most holy place was divided from the holy place, by a

. The Temple, like the Tabernacle, contained the apartment called the most holy, and it was concealed from common eyes, by t

uality that could be procured. Things of the greatest value being the most suitable to express the highest sense of gratitud

rms; sometimes groups, and sometimes single figures, wrought with the most perfect delicacy and truth They are often set in

retired to Elis, where he produced a statue of Jupiter, which was the most admired of his performances. 14. See note to Fra

ng to you a work for which I conceive it difficult to find, among the most distinguished of your sex, a more suitable patron

and , a word, or description. Its origin has been attributed to that most prominent cause, passion. The natural desire of m

n the obscurity of fable. The ancient Greeks, who, at first, were the most rude and uncivilized of all nations, admired what

ion and refinement. They represented their gods in human shape of the most excellent character. Every thing enchanting in fe

mean, and represent them, when considered literally, as guilty of the most extravagant follies and the most atrocious crimes

nsidered literally, as guilty of the most extravagant follies and the most atrocious crimes. The study of mythology enables

assions of human nature, while it incited them to the practice of the most illustrious virtues. The heathens, being ignorant

ee figure 1. Fig. 1. Fatum or Destiny. This idea of Destiny is the most beautiful confession that men have made of the ne

their rank was far inferior to his own. The Greeks deemed Uranus the most ancient of all the gods. The Latins called him Cœ

rior to his father, Saturn, in rank? What god did the Greeks deem the most ancient? Who was the oldest of the goddesses?

was introduced originally from the east, where the sun was deemed the most glorious image of the Supreme Being. It was the P

The giants, descendants of Titanus, warred against Jupiter; among the most daring and distinguished of whom were Porphyrion,

nemosyne, Latona and Juno. Juno appears to have been the last and the most celebrated of his wives. By these wives he had a

, he had children. Jupiter is described as having had recourse to the most unworthy artifices in order to gratify the basest

s we see in Egypt several Pharaohs, and in Asia several Dariuses. The most celebrated of the kings who-appeared under the na

e was the personification of the rainbow. The worship of Juno was the most solemn and general of all offered up to pagan div

x months with her husband Pluto, and six months with her. Arethusa, a most virtuous and beautiful nymph, was engaged in the

ew flowers. Among the children of the sun, Aurora and Phaeton are the most celebrated. Questions. Who was Sol? How is the Su

 — Moore’s Anacreon. Obs. 1. — Daybreak in fair weather, affords a most beautiful prospect of nature. It is associated in

ions four Apollos. The Apollo of the Egyptians, called Horus, was the most ancient, but the Apollo to whom the actions of th

sal repute. His temples and statues were raised in every country. His most splendid temple was at Delphi. The olive and laur

ject of tragedy is to exhibit the glorious actions of heroes, and the most illustrious of all, is Hercules. — See Fig. 14.

XV. Diana, or Phœba. There were three goddesses of this name, the most celebrated of whom was the daughter of Jupiter an

g five goddesses of this name, whom Cicero mentions, he says that the most ancient issued from the Nile, and was much worshi

ly of the gods, and became Jupiter’s faithful counsellor. She was the most accomplished of all the goddesses. Minerva, Athen

of this difference. They decided that the deity who should confer the most valuable gift on the city should give his name to

Mars of the Persians, and was regarded as the god of fights. But the most celebrated was the son of Jupiter and Juno, or, a

ods, because the judges, twelve in number, were chosen from among the most illustrious families of Athens. Obs. 3. — We see

he formed a college of priests. Venus is said to have behaved in the most licentious manner; and her worship was celebrated

n the most licentious manner; and her worship was celebrated with the most shameful ceremonies. Juno, Minerva, and Venus, be

Anadyomne, because she rose from the waters; Melanis, because she was most admired in the night; Migonitis, because she was

metimes Dione. Venus was represented under a variety of forms. In her most admired statues, she was represented with every q

ce of the sea produces. The statue of Venus, made by Phidias, was the most perfect and elegant of any. One of her singular s

r hands. Some thereby attempt to show that her superior traits appear most glowing, when the god of wine and the pleasures o

of kings and great personages whom they wished to flatter. Hence, the most seductive paintings, and often the most scandalou

wished to flatter. Hence, the most seductive paintings, and often the most scandalous adventures, were the materials they ma

nce reigned over a part of Phœnicia, and joined to extreme beauty the most consummate qualities of mind. He married the daug

y alternately refined their joys and softened their cares, and by the most agreeable participation, considered each other as

n artificial image of Venus, where the finest features, ranged in the most exact symmetry, and heightened by the most bloomi

st features, ranged in the most exact symmetry, and heightened by the most blooming complexion, were so animated as to excit

d themselves around it. Mercury was represented in a variety of ways: most commonly, however, as a naked youth, standing on

. —  See Fig. 30. Fig. 30. Mercury. Mercury had many children. The most celebrated were Hermaphroditus by Venus, and Pan

peace allow;’ Ovid. Obs. 1. — He who has furnished the poets with most materials for fable, is Mercury Trismegistus, or

ntinually recurring. To have them unsupplied, causes death. Hence the most unenlightened nations have sought out some supern

e earth have libations to the ocean, seas, fountains, and rivers. The most astonishing effects were attributed to the water,

deities of the water were innumerable. We shall present a few of the most important fables belonging to this part of mythol

dent in their hands, or sometimes garlands of flowers. Thetis was the most illustrious of the Nereides, and is to be disting

nus honoured? How is Oceanus represented? Who was Nereus? Who was the most illustrious of the Nereides? Chapter II. Neptu

kes, and raise islands from the bottom of the sea at his will. He was most venerated by the Libyans. The Greeks and Romans c

m we shall speak. Thoosa, his daughter, was mother to Polyphemus, the most celebrated of the Cyclops. Saron was considered

the name of Demogorgon. Among the different names borne by Earth, the most ancient is Titæa, which signifies dirt, or earth,

for the safety and prosperity of the Roman people, was done with the most extensive preparations and the most extraordinary

e Roman people, was done with the most extensive preparations and the most extraordinary circumspection. The house where the

e first which considered the earth animated by a genius? What was the most ancient name given to the Earth? What was one of

tituted games to her, called Floralia, which were celebrated with the most licentious rites. Zephyrus, the god of the west-w

nd. Anna Perenna was another deity of the same order with Pales, The most natural joy and the simplest pleasures always ani

to some, of Mercury and Penelope, or Jupiter and Calisto. He made the most eminent figure in the rural world, presiding over

men by their private counsels and heir power, and looked after their most secret thoughts. They carefully watched over thei

scure belief in the immortality of the soul was almost universal. The most guilty only were so hardy as to raise doubts of t

eternal flagellation and torments. The Furies are represented as the most deformed and horrible deities, with faces emaciat

that he should excel in feats of valour; Lachesis, that he should be most active; and Atropos, snatching a brand from the f

d Alcmena, widow of Amphytrion. He was regarded as one of the wisest, most modest, and sober men of his age. His love of jus

ee Fig. 43. Fig. 43. Somnus. “Thou rest o’ th’ world, sleep, the most peaceful god, Who driv’st care from the mind, and

yas, Ixion, Salmoneus, Sisyphus, the Danaides, and Tantalus, were the most remarkable sufferers in hell. The Giants were the

tone on the objects of his plunders, and to permit them to die in the most agonizing and excruciating manner; others advance

rmed Asopus where his daughter Ægina had been carried by Jupiter; but most writers assign the following as the reason: Sisyp

ing of Phrygia. He is described as eternally experiencing in hell the most burning thirst and the most griping hunger; and a

bed as eternally experiencing in hell the most burning thirst and the most griping hunger; and as being placed in the water

the ambrosia and nectar in order to have his friends taste them; but most chroniclers agree in telling the following story:

impossibility of any one’s returning to life. Questions. Who were the most remarkable sufferers in hell? Please to describe

e been born of a cloud by Ixion, whence they are called Nubiginæ. The most eminent of the Centaurs were Chiron, Eurytus, Amy

ath which the people made by her or by Jupiter Fidius, was deemed the most inviolable of all. It is generally thought that N

ibbling objections are raised against the finest conceptions, and the most beautiful works, they excite the laughter merely

ve been nourished by that animal, and a cock, which is considered the most vigilant of all birds; for watchfulness was consi

ost vigilant of all birds; for watchfulness was considered one of the most essential qualifications of a physician. He appea

, famous in the Trojan war, and four daughters, of whom Hygeia is the most celebrated. Hygeia, the goddess of health, was h

s of health, was held in great veneration, and was represented in the most engaging forms. Her statues exhibited her as a be

in Phœnicia before he was introduced into Greece. Sanchoniathon, the most ancient of the Phœnician authors, mentions an Æsc

udence, a quality necessary to a physician. It was supposed to be the most long lived of animals, and is usually the emblem

e men celebrated by their courage and fine actions. This etymology is most generally adopted. This name was at first given t

t the celebration of their funeral pomp, during which they sang their most brilliant exploits, was confined to heroes. In se

granted a religious worship, or great honors; but we shall notice the most celebrated, according to the order of the times i

begin with the history of Perseus, whose antiquity appears to be the most remote. Chapter I. Perseus, Pegasus, Belleropho

erished in the sea. He had a temple at Athens, one of the richest and most magnificent buildings in the city. “Where fam’d

with Osiris and general of his troops, Ozochor, and so forth; but the most celebrated, called by the Greeks Alceus, or Alcid

hiloctetes to put fire to it, ascended it, and closed his life in the most dreadful agonies, and was thence translated to he

his tenth labour? Mention his eleventh labour. What was the last and most dangerous labour imposed upon him? Did not he acc

f vital importance. Jason chose for his companions about fifty of the most noble and famous in Greece. He built a ship, call

te, that he played on the lyre in so masterly a style, as to hold the most rapid rivers in suspense; that his strains melted

So fine and delicate indeed were its touches, that they dissolved the most beautiful nymphs, his constant attendants, into m

e name of Priam’s wife was Hecuba, who bore him several children, the most renowned of which were Hector and Paris. In ravag

ty as to carry off Helen, wife to Menelaus, who was reputed to be the most beautiful woman of the age. The whole of the Grec

Greeks. Achilles among the Greeks, and Hector of the Trojans, fought most valiantly. Jupiter alone devoted it to fate. Venu

at principal Trojans were opposed to them? Which of the heroes fought most valiantly? What part did the gods take in this wa

with a stratagem of Polyxena. Polyxena was sister to Paris, and was a most beautiful and accomplished virgin. Achilles accid

ors of Penelope, and slew them all, after they had treated him in the most insolent manner. After this, he became reconciled

to a knowledge of those mysteries, until they had passed through the most terrible trials. These trials were called initiat

table; but when time and culture had changed that vast tract into the most fertile plain in the world, the Egyptians consecr

he first principle of all things; and pervades all, and manifests his most brilliant presence in the subtle ether. The Persi

nestimable value.” But another temple of the sun at Juggernaut is the most celebrated. It is described as a magnificent, vas

out their necks, dragging along a heavy weight, remaining long in the most painful positions of body, drowning themselves in

ves to be devoured by alligators and other beasts. The Fakirs are the most disgusting of these wretched fanatics. They hang

rung up first in Phœnicia. The worship of the heavenly bodies was the most ancient and general form of it. The Chaldeans and

ns worshipped their gods of war, the chief of whom was Mex-it-li, the most highly honoured among their divinities. A great m

survey of these different mythologies, enforces the conclusion, that most of the gods were men, whose exploits had rendered

ll not attempt to give a description of all the Egyptian temples. The most celebrated, next to that of Belus, of which we sh

pains, in order to place it in the temple of Minerva. “What I admire most ,” says Herodotus, “among the works constructed by

Chapter II. Temple of Belus in Babylon. This temple, among the most ancient dedicated to paganism, was also the most

is temple, among the most ancient dedicated to paganism, was also the most singular in its structure. Berosus, according to

s, which served as resting places to those who mounted the tower. The most lofty room was also the most highly adorned, and

aces to those who mounted the tower. The most lofty room was also the most highly adorned, and the one for which the people

tatue of Jupiter Olympius. Both, formed with gold and ivory, were the most accomplished works of the illustrious Phidias, th

ory, were the most accomplished works of the illustrious Phidias, the most celebrated of all sculptors, either ancient or mo

es which this temple contained. The pavement of the temple was of the most beautiful marble; and in the interior, an infinit

That of Jupiter, on the Capitoline hill, was among the number of the most beautiful; but the most superb and the most subst

Capitoline hill, was among the number of the most beautiful; but the most superb and the most substantial was the Pantheon,

s among the number of the most beautiful; but the most superb and the most substantial was the Pantheon, vulgarly called the

us pretensions of rivalry. St. Paul’s Church in London, is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world, next to St. Pet

ful monuments in the world, next to St. Peter’s at Rome. Such are the most celebrated temples; the memory of which is record

n. The temple, or rather the tower of Belus, was, beyond dispute, the most ancient and extraordinary of all monuments. It ex

y of all the oracles renders it expedient to confine ourselves to the most ancient and celebrated. Chapter VIII. Oracle o

acle of Dodona. According to Herodotus, the oracle of Dodona, the most ancient in Greece, and that of Jupiter Ammon, in

Chapter X: Oracle of Delphi. The oracle of Delphi was not the most ancient in Greece, but the most celebrated, and i

The oracle of Delphi was not the most ancient in Greece, but the most celebrated, and it continued the longest. The tim

with a column raised above it. Lebadea, says Pausanias, is one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. There is a sacred woo

Chapter XII. Of other Oracles. Having briefly noticed some of the most celebrated oracles, we will now proceed to notice

untries, and names, and the time in which they flourished. Varro, the most learned of the Romans, names ten Sibyls, and cite

r the name of Sibyl. 4. The Sibyl of Cumæ, or the Cumæan. She was the most celebrated of all. Mr.  Petit, a learned modern a

e reign of Honorius. Chapter XIV: Of the Games. The games were most commonly instituted from religious motives. They

resented in the theatre, in honour of Bacchus, Venus, and Apollo. The most celebrated games in Greece, were the Olympian, th

ed them, without informing us in what period or on what occasion. The most common opinion among the learned, is that Pelops

those who had won the prize in these games. They were all made by the most celebrated Grecian sculptors. The odes of Pindar

ant immortalize those who, in his lifetime, had triumphed in the four most solemn games, the Olympic, the Isthmian, the Pyth

were endowed. The chronicles of Iceland represent Odin as one of the most persuasive of men. Nothing, say they, could resis

e charms of poetry. He was the inventor of Runic characters; but what most contributed to make him pass for a god, was the b

the chronicles of the North, we hope to succeed in distinguishing the most important points. The religion of the Scythians a

t religion which, for several centuries, was adopted and practised by most people of Northern Europe, and, no doubt, by seve

f the inhabitants of the north. From these sources wo learn, that the most important alteration which it received after Odin

which is in the valley of Ida, was situated the place of meeting, the most splendidly ornamented of all, where the gods admi

ty, born of the union of Odin with Earth. The Edda pronounces him the most valiant of the sons of Odin; and the club with wh

do evil. Wherefore temples were raised to his honor, for fear is the most superstitious of the passions. Balder, son of Od

ga, and the patroness of finery; Freya, the goddess of lovers, is the most mild and bountiful of the divinities. Her eye is

he Learned. Several fragments of the first Edda are still extant. The most valuable is the poem entitled Volupsa, i. e. Orac

e vestiges of a general tradition, the various circumstances of which most nations have embellished, altered, or suppressed

the sublime, with the peurile, sometimes littleness placed amidst the most magnificent pictures, the disorder of narration,

belief in predestination was calculated to add to the temerity of the most warlike people on earth. The inhabitants of the N

, was computed from one winter solstice to the other. This feast, the most solemn of all, was called Juul, and was celebrate

year. During its continuance, like the Roman Saturnalia, marks of the most dissolute joy were allowed. The second feast was

as a pastoral people could afford. The first fruits of crops, and the most beautiful fruits of the earth, covered the altars

ays; and nine victims, either men or animals, were immolated. But the most solemn sacrifices were those which were made at U

he blood spouted with great impetuosity, it was considered one of the most favorable omens. The sad remains of human victims

a wood of this kind, every tree and leaf of which was looked upon as most holy. This wood, called Odin’s, was filled up wit

ke arose quickly, the people doubted not but these offerings had been most agreeable to him. When they immolated a victim, t

e have mentioned, delivered oracles in temples. That of Upsal was the most celebrated, on account of its replies, as well as

ts handed down by uncertain tradition. We have already observed, that most nations give for their founders, either gods or i

t fact; but it throws no light on the beginning of their history. The most renowned of all the Celts, are those who inhabite

Britain. From this series of observations, it appears that, from the most ancient times, the inhabitants of Great Britain h

elief in apparitions. The mountaineers, above all, delighted with the most gloomy ideas, and often went to spend nights upon

peared to his mastiff, which made doleful howlings at its aspect. The most natural effects which their ignorance could not c

arming they must have been! They were enough to feast and fill up the most poetic imagination. It is to that cause that we m

arshes, because they thought that divinity loved to inhabit them. The most celebrated of those lakes, was that of Toulouse,

nd many others before them, describe them as men among the wisest and most enlightened in matters of religion. So high an id

om them his esteem. The Druids formed different colleges in Gaul; the most celebrated of which was that of the country of Ch

bowed before them; and it was to their care that the education of the most distinguished youths was entrusted; so that they

will, and cause themselves to be transported through the air; but the most cruel of all their superstitions, was that of imm

existence, but also show how pertinaciously they persisted in it. The most solemn of all their ceremonies, was that of colle

attendants of the priestesses, whose orders they were to execute. The most ordinary residence of the Druidesses was in the i

abited them; and there the Druids and Druidesses exercised themselves most in magic. The people of Gaul and England generall

and that, by a geometrical series of reasoning, originating from the most clearly self-evident truths, it develops all the

s, Gods; and were considered by them as perpetually subsisting in the most admirable and profound union with each other, and

eece and Rome occurs so much more frequently in those books which are most commonly, and most early, used in education, it h

s so much more frequently in those books which are most commonly, and most early, used in education, it has been deemed pref

fied mortals, or the peculiar gods of any country. Chap. III. [The most ancient Divinities according to the Greeks, Satur

eeks, Saturn, Cybele.] Which, according to the Greeks, was the most ancient of the divinities? Cœlus, or Heaven, whom

or Heaven, whom the Greeks called Uranus, was, by their account, the most ancient of the gods, as Vesta Prisca, or Terra, d

t, was called Magna Mater — the Great Mother. She had many names, the most common of which are: Dindyméne, Idæa, and Berecyn

. This event was the subject of general mourning, and considered as a most direful presage. If either of the Vestal virgins

f the Deity. Zoroaster taught the Persians to venerate the Sun as the most glorious image of the Supreme Being, and to regar

e most glorious image of the Supreme Being, and to regard fire as the most striking emblem of his beneficent influence. The

ious actions had procured him divine honours, contradicted themselves most egregiously: sometimes describing him as absolute

the principle of all justice; and not unfrequently as the weakest and most criminal of mortals. He was supposed to be the ma

lightning. What was the worship offered to this Divinity? It was the most solemn of any paid to the heathen Deities; and, a

ities; and, among different nations, greatly diversified. The victims most commonly offered to Jupiter were a goat, a sheep,

children of the Sun? The Sun was supposed to have many children; the most celebrated of whom were, Aurora, Circe, and Phaet

uld ask, could not refuse. In vain did he give to the rash youth, the most prudent directions for the management of the hors

tern world. Ovid’s Met. What was the history of Circe? Circe was a most skilful sorceress, who poisoned her husband, a ki

pears in a chariot of silver, drawn by hinds. Where were situated her most celebrated temples? She had two temples famous in

s, a red face, a body bloated, and puffed up; but more frequently, as most beautiful and effeminate, having long flowing hai

or Blue-eyed. Where was she principally worshiped? At Athens; where a most magnificent temple was erected in honour of her,

g a name to that city, the gods decided that whichsoever produced the most useful gift, should have that privilege. Neptune

rship? Temples were erected to her honour almost every where; but the most beautiful were those of Paphos, Gnidus, Amathus,

ters of Jupiter and Juno; by others, of Jupiter and Eurynome; but the most general opinion was, that they were daughters of

who fawned upon, or drove them away accordingly. The Romans in their most solemn treaties, invoked Vulcan the avenger; and

ed Vulcan the avenger; and the assemblies in which they discussed the most important affairs, were held in the temple of Vul

were held in the temple of Vulcan. At Memphis, in Egypt, also, was a most magnificent edifice raised in honour of this God,

ere were two of that name; the Egyptian, and the Grecian Mercury. The most ancient of them, was the Thaut or Thot of the Egy

sunk in fires. Pitt’s Virgil. Who were the children of Neptune? The most remarkable of them were, Polyphemus, one of the C

posed to have uncommonly melodious voices, and to touch the lyre in a most enchanting manner. Who was Proteus? A son of Nept

Who were Scylla and Charybdis? The former was supposed to have been a most beautiful woman, who, having excited the jealousy

es was driven by the winds, he learnt to distinguish those which blew most violently, and were of longest duration. His desc

dens. He was accounted the son of Venus and Bacchus; and his image, a most hideous mis-shapen figure, was set up to frighten

Who was the God Pan? The God Pan held a principal place among the most ancient divinities. By the poets, he is said to b

under the figure of small images of human form, and were kept in the most retired part of the edifices. Lamps, the symbols

those pursuits, and enjoying those gratifications, which pleased them most , during life. Elysian fields. These rites comple

ry force and valour. What were the labours of Hercules? Twelve of his most remarkable actions were particularized by the nam

h. Who was Daedalus? Great grandson of Erectheus, king of Athens, the most ingenious and celebrated artist of Greece; a skil

t ingenious and celebrated artist of Greece; a skilful architect, and most expert sculptor. He invented the wedge, the axe,

on the day that Alexander the Great was born. Third. The Mausoleum, a most beautiful sepulchre of marble, built by Artemisia

The Palace of Cyrus, king of Persia, which is recorded to have been a most splendid edifice, of which the stones were cement

in that career which was allotted to them. Thus every soul, from the most exalted intelligence to the herb of the field, wa

ern peninsula of India, with the numerous islands to the south of it; most of the countries east of the Ganges, and in Tibet

ngs are worn out, and are dissolved by death. Are there not found, in most of the Pagan mythologies, traditions which appear

indûs; rejected by their countrymen, and condemned to perform all the most laborious and degrading offices of life. Do the H

n of rubies, pearls, and diamonds of inestimable value, arranged in a most judicious manner, and diffusing a lustre scarcely

hepherds; of whose nature and actions, their sacred writings give the most extraordinary and strange representations. He is

nefit of ablution in the purifying stream. At the entrance of all the most considerable of them, is a portico, supported by

dmit the first solar ray. Of these temples, that of Jaggernaut is the most celebrated. It is an immense circular building, f

va, for whom Jaggernaut is only another name. Here, are practised the most abominable and cruel rites. The horrible idol is

ebrated shrine. The idol images in these temples are generally of the most monstrous forms that imagination can picture. Som

gers of any class whatsoever. The loss of Caste degrades a Hindû to a most miserable condition; cuts him off from all societ

and detestable animal. The Brahmin Caste holds all the others in the most humiliating bonds. The Brahmins abstain entirely

n order to put an end to all things here. They are taught to practise most cruel, absurd, and impure rites; and that it is m

ing constantly along a heavy weight; remaining for a long time in the most painful positions of body; drowning themselves in

nd active cause of the phenomena of nature, as it is displayed in its most striking and powerful agencies, but without clear

cal representations, appears to have been the popular religion of the most civilized nations of antiquity. But though it is

religion of the most civilized nations of antiquity. But though it is most probable that the Egyptians, like almost all othe

g borrowed from them, not only their religious ceremonies, but, also, most of their gods. The inhabitants of the Thebais, in

ndes, or Pan, was one of the eight gods who constituted the first, or most ancient, rank of the Egyptian deities. He was wor

first, and afterwards among the Europeans. Did not the Egyptians pay most extravagant respect to some of their sacred anima

horrible symbols of destruction, of death, of licentiousness; but the most beautiful and beneficial of elements, fire and th

of all things; as diffused throughout the universe, but as making the most brilliant manifestation of his presence, in that

aded into the sovereign of the infernal world, and worshiped with the most abominable and cruel rites. The priests of this r

was interdicted by them from the sacrifices. This interdiction was a most severe punishment, since they against whom it was

consumed them, together, by fire. Criminals were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the Gods; but when these were wanti

ey supposed to be exercised principally over those things, which they most highly valued. Thus it happened to the Scandinavi

y degrees, adopted the custom of building temples for their Gods; the most famous of which were, at Upsal and Drontheim. Whi

supposed actions of Odin are represented by the Scandinavian poets as most marvellous. In battle he slaughtered thousands at

aughter of Niorder, God of the winds and seas, was represented as the most amiable of the Goddesses. She was the wife of Odi

me of Hertha, she was regarded as the earth; and she was worshiped by most of the German tribes, as the goddess of love and

e that were to fall in battle; to bear the invitation of Odin, to the most distinguished; to conduct the souls of heroes sla

Helga. What are the sacred books of the Scandinavian mythology? The most ancient, is the Voluspa; the prophecy of Vala, or

of the Destinies, called Nornies; the functions of the Deities; their most remarkable adventures; their disputes with Loke,

some of the giants, and ascribes to them marvellous exploits. But the most extraordinary part of the sacred books of the Sca

. Thus, Baal-Peor, who was the idol of the Moabites, whose rites were most detestable and cruel; and who is regarded as bein

ging, delightful ideas of the Deity, the all-directing mind; for this most precious knowledge, communicated unto us by our L

tum? What was the Palladium, and where was it preserved? Who were the most ancient God and Goddess? Who mentions Jupiter Bel

subject which has occupied the thoughts, and employed the pens of our most profound thinkers, and our ablest writers, it is

n itself so interesting, and so intimately connected with all that is most fascinating to our remembrances, and so blended w

days of our youth, and would even arouse us from our reveries on this most charming of subjects: we will conclude with the w

rief and succinct history of those Gods whose adventures have created most interest, and by means of them to give an additio

the first recipients of the homage of mankind; and thus Heaven is the most ancient of the Gods. As the world increased they

ks for winding rivers makes. Some part in earth are swallowed up; the most In ample oceans disembogued, are lost: He shades

of the Gods, but seems only to have had a momentary reign. He is the most ancient of all, for he presided over the elements

e high priest. The privileges of the Vestals were great: they had the most honourable seats at the public games and festival

m to a never dying torture. ———— “Awful sufferer! To thee unwilling, most unwillingly I come, by the great Father’s will dr

er to sing; Mercury instructed her in eloquence; Minerva gave her the most rich and splendid ornaments. From these valuable

old, and as a cuckoo: but Homer appears to have inspired ideas of the most noble kinds to the sculptors of antiquity. The di

e form appeared to mourn the departure of the God, and uttered sounds most musical and melancholy; this celebrated statue wa

n, are exprest All that ideal beauty ever blest The mind with, in its most unearthly mood, When each conception was a heaven

n his seat at Olympus. The fable of Apollo is, perhaps, that which is most spread over the faith of antiquity. Pæans were th

atues in every country, particularly in Egypt, Greece, and Italy; the most famous was that of Delos, where they celebrated t

d to the gods their locks of hair, possibly because this offering was most difficult to the vanity of youth. Apollo made kno

an in Greece. They presented it to Thales, who had told them that the most difficult of all human knowledge was the art of k

; and so violent was the fit, that she continued for some days in the most agonizing situation, and at last died. It was alw

ore celebrated, such as that at Palmyra, which was constructed of the most gigantic proportions; and for which nothing was s

he vitals of the prince, and he expired in the midst of torments, the most cruel and excruciating, and his mother, stricken

of many an ode, and many a touching story, and is perhaps, one of the most chaste, or at least most chastely told in Mytholo

a touching story, and is perhaps, one of the most chaste, or at least most chastely told in Mythology: “He was a poet, sure

ats. The mode of worship to Diana, differs in different nations. The most celebrated of her temples was that at Ephesus, wh

arded by a constancy, which never afterwards deceived her. One of the most pleasant stories in the whole range of Mythology,

his hand, in answer to which, tigers and panthers, with others of the most savage beasts of the desert, seemed to swim round

anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img065 Venus. Venus, one of the most celebrated deities of the ancients, was the godde

the mutilated body of Uranus had been thrown there by Saturn, is the most known, and of her in particular, ancient mytholog

d the god, to fulfil her destiny, gave her in marriage to Vulcan, the most ugly and deformed of the Gods. This ‌marriage did

ed to cast dishonour on her husband. Her love for Mars is perhaps the most notorious on account of the disgrace which accomp

so which Venus entertained for Anchises, a youth distinguished by the most exquisite beauty, again drew her ‌from heaven, an

s girdle which gave beauty, grace, and elegance when worn even by the most deformed, was irresistible when around beauty: it

auty was represented among the ancients in different forms. Among the most highly valued, was that in the temple of Jupiter

f Doris, and of Euploca. In her temple of Euploca, at Cnidos, was the most admired of her statues, being the most perfect pi

of Euploca, at Cnidos, was the most admired of her statues, being the most perfect piece of Praxiteles. It was formed of whi

, the irrevocable, interposed, and pronounced the decree by which the most beautiful of the Goddesses, was united to the mos

ecree by which the most beautiful of the Goddesses, was united to the most unsightly of the Gods. During the festival which

nce given Of works divine, such wonders are in heaven!” Virgil. The most known of the works of Vulcan, which were presente

ve. The beautiful fable of the winged deity’s love for Psyche, is the most pleasing of those related of him. ‌ The nymph Ps

for her curiosity. In addition to this, Venus imposed upon Psyche the most difficult tasks; she poured upon the nymph tormen

yche the most difficult tasks; she poured upon the nymph torments the most excruciating, and took delight in rendering her m

d goblet will we quaff, until We fill — we fill!” Keats. One of the most beautiful of his temples was built within a myrtl

iately admitted into the association of the Gods, becoming one of the most faithful counsellors of her father. She was indee

ed the dispute by promising preference to whichever could produce the most useful and necessary present to the inhabitants o

usual features vanished from their place, Her body lessened — but the most , her face, Her slender fingers, hanging on each s

ess Mars complain? Of all the gods who tread the spangled skies, Thou most unjust, most odious in our eyes! Inhuman discord

lain? Of all the gods who tread the spangled skies, Thou most unjust, most odious in our eyes! Inhuman discord is thy dire d

d consequently the winner of victory, have been very numerous. ‌ His most celebrated temple at Rome, was built by Augustus,

dges of the infernal regions, of whom Minos and Rhadamanthus were the most important. He sate in the middle, holding a scept

is vital breath, To his last year of unrepenting death.” Amongst the most notorious criminals plunged in Tartarus, were the

actions of all the others have been probably attributed, as he is the most famous and the best known. Mercury was the messen

teaches, bubbling in delightful mood All things which make the spirit most elate, Soothing the mind with sweet familiar play

e supposed unworthy the notice of the superior intelligences. For the most part, therefore, these Immortals have no origin i

poet, it is necessary to introduce those who are considered to be the most celebrated. And for the future, the poetry offere

on which poets and painters have given of the Satyrs. Priapus was the most celebrated among them, as the the son of Venus, w

joy; And little wanted, but in vain their wishes all employ. For one, most brutal of the brutal brood, Or whether wine or be

them the answer was alike in the negative: tho’ Vertumnus, one of the most zealous, pursued her with unchanging ardour. “Lo

prest Like tearful Proserpine, snatched from her flowers         To a most gloomy breast. Where is the pride of Summer, — th

om Is beauty’s, — she that with the living bloom Of conscious cheeks, most beautifies the light; There is enough of sorrowin

ivinities of the Sea. Oceanus and Thetis. Oceanus, one of the most powerful deities of the sea, was, according to Ho

shore, where, in the midst of desolate rocks, they sang songs of the most enchanting and attractive nature, while those who

ge anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img149 Night. Nox, one of the most ancient deities among the heathens, was the daugh

times during the course of the year while their fêtes, which were the most pompous in Rome, were proceeding in their honour.

d, gave them their private councils, and carefully watched over their most secret intentions. Some of the ancient philosophe

into whatever form they pleased, and of assuming whatever shapes were most subservient to their intentions. At the moment of

Aglaia, and Thalia. Of them, the greatest statuaries have erected the most groups, and Socrates himself, before he joined th

living, was the presider over feasts and festivals, and was honoured most by the dissipated youth who, to do him reverence,

. Castor was skilful in the art of guiding chariots, and subduing the most fiery coursers. These brothers fought Theseus for

d come) would dethrone him. After he had distinguished himself by the most rapid success in every branch of science, Jason l

e, in which they swore a mutual fidelity, and bound themselves by the most solemn oaths, she pledged herself to deliver her

it on; it immediately set her whole body on fire, and she died in the most painful torments. This deed was followed by one s

upplies. Gazing spectators scarce believe their eyes. But Æson is the most surprised to find A happy change in body and in m

to forty-three; though of these the son of Jupiter and Alcmena is the most celebrated, and as such, doubtless, many of their

seeing so perfect a hero subjected to him, ordered him to perform the most terrible and dangerous deeds he could imagine, wh

killing a dragon which guarded the tree. ‌ The twelfth and last, and most dangerous of his labours, was to bring upon earth

only be wiped away by the hero becoming a slave, and remaining in the most abject servitude for three years. In compliance w

o that one who should prove the strongest of all his competitors. The most dangerous foe to Hercules was Achelous, a river g

ed club in his hands, on which he is often seen leaning. Such are the most important parts of the life of Hercules, who is h

tures torn, Inured to trouble, and to labours born. Death is the gift most welcome to my woe, And such a gift a stepdame may

rer image anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img197 This hero, one of the most celebrated of antiquity, was the son of Ægeus, by

hen the brutal Centaurs attempted to insult the bride, was one of the most forward to defend: and when Pirithous, after this

’s fate, to love, To know one summer day of happiness, And then to be most wretched!     Leonarde.                          

; the innocent have nought to fear;     The. Now by my crown, this is most base effrontery, But ’tis in vain, thy mother hat

he. Darest thou add falsehood to thine infamy?     Hip. Thy words are most unjust!     The. And there thou standest with a b

andest with a brow as calm As innocence itself.     Hip. In this I am most innocent! — Nay, interrupt me not, for I will spe

and thy wife, avowed In accents shameless as the wish she breathed, A most incestuous passion for my person: With fierce dis

thee? Phor. O wretched state! I die, unless I speak; And if I speak most certain death attends me. Œd. Thou shalt not die

hout a cause. Phor. There was a dreadful one Which had foretold that most unhappy son Should kill his father, and enjoy his

rrying Amid too idle words, nor asking how She praised us both (which most ?) for what we did. Aga. Ye Gods who govern here!

               Proudest men themselves In others praise humility, and most Admire it in the sceptre and the sword. What then

scent I ever aimed at: those who love me live, Save one, who loves me most , and now would chide me. Aga. We want not O Iphi

more and more Teach what we know, from those we know, and sink Often most deeply where they fall most light. Time was when

know, from those we know, and sink Often most deeply where they fall most light. Time was when for the faintest breath of t

mense machine which remained behind. Some proposed to destroy it. The most superstitious demanded on the contrary, that it s

Dido, Queen of Carthage, a new town in which this queen had built the most gorgeous edifices; in one of which, where she gav

peculiarly honoured, several altars were dedicated to her, one of the most magnificent of which was raised by Vespasian, aft

ary for men of learning to assemble ‌there, and even to deposit their most valuable writings as a place of peculiar safety;

le among the festal company, the apple, with the inscription, “To the most beautiful.” This apple was the origin of the Troj

fall upon the inhabitants of the earth. ‌ We have now enumerated the most remarkable of the Allegorical Divinities, the num

ts slaughtered Lord.” Ovid. Acis and Galatea. Polyphemus, the most dreadful and hideous of the Cyclops, loved Galate

de of a fountain, neglecting his flocks, and murmuring love songs the most touching and impassioned; while he adorned his pe

mortal lover; The purple midnight veiled that mystic meeting With her most starry canopy, and seating Thyself by thine adore

m the attempted subjection of a free country. We have now related the most celebrated fables in the Mythology of the Greeks

languishing, and full of pain and weakness. Milo was one of the most celebrated of the Greek wrestlers, who having ear

d the first woman wherewith to people it. Brahma is the object of the most ancient adoration of the Brahmins; he is consider

mythology_1842_img273 Of the many deities of the second category, the most remarkable is Ganga, who is the river Ganges pers

ing carcasses are generally abandoned to the current of the wave. The most famous of their places of worship is that point o

tion is paid to the Brahmins. The two sexes bathe together, while the most rigid of the devotees walk to the bath escorted b

four of these animals, who are placed at the four cardinal points. In most of their temples one of them is sure to be seen.

wever, being the one by which he is best known, and under which he is most worshipped. “What potent god from Agra’s orient

ndinavia. Insérer image anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img278b The most important of the gods of Scandinavia is Odin, who

whole of the Scandinavian history. Frigga or Frea, his wife, was the most powerful of the goddesses, and by many supposed t

ected and guided the steps of the hunters in the sacred wood; and the most successful of them received from Odin the gift of

ed. Insérer image anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img282 Teutates, the most celebrated of their minor deities, was the vital

ery day they offered up nine victims, whether men or animals. But the most solemn sacrifices were those which were offered a

s which could be given to their god, human sacrifices were considered most acceptable: a belief, which, with a superstitious

ue, are found sculptured representations of Idols, which resemble the most ancient gods of Egypt and Syria; Planispheres and

spirits; and the number of victims should be five and twenty: unlike most other lands, who in the same circumstances are to

p the soul of the dead, and a being named Molongo, upon whom they are most prodigal in bestowing titles; such as sovereign o

oduction to these studies, while the latter will find in the work the most important and pleasing features of mythology. Wit

easing features of mythology. With such views, it has been considered most judicious to present the classic fables in their

to present the classic fables in their simplest, which is also their most poetic form, giving the allegorical meaning attac

is, who was restored to her husband. Euripides has founded one of his most beautiful tragedies upon this story. Ques. Over

Ques. What were the offices of Mercury? Ans. They were various; his most important function was to carry the commands of J

erce. Ques. Were all his talents equally honorable? Ans. No; he was most skillful in the art of thieving. On the very day

The feasts of Bacchus were various. The Bacchanalia or Orgia were the most celebrated. They were at first participated in by

es. What were Juno’s faults? Ans. She was very jealous, and took the most cruel revenge on the mortal woman whom Jupiter lo

d it was resolved that whichever of the two deities should confer the most useful gift on man, might give a name to the city

to a trial of skill in weaving. The goddess wrought into her work the most beautiful designs, but it would seem that Arachne

the wearer. Ques. Where had Venus temples? Ans. In many places. The most celebrated were at Paphos, Cytherea, Idalia and C

tely arose between the goddesses, for each believed herself to be the most beautiful. Juno, Minerva, and Venus disputed so e

cquired a great reputation for the prudence with which he settled the most difficult disputes; hence the difference between

power; Minerva, wisdom; but Venus promised to give him for a wife the most beautiful woman in the world. Paris then pronounc

ire, and the patron of blacksmiths and armorers. Ques. What were the most celebrated works of Vulcan? Ans. The armor of Ac

ws, the Vestals were treated with extraordinary respect. They had the most honorable seats at games and festivals, and even

he other six with Pluto in the infernal regions. Ques. What were the most famous solemnities instituted in honor of Ceres?

oduced into a dark subterranean cave, where he was terrified with the most fearful sights and sounds. After this, if his cou

oose from among the nine images, those which they should consider the most beautiful. When the statues were finished, they w

remembrance. On applying them to his lips, he found they produced the most melodious sounds, so that he formed them into a r

r mantle, the youngest and last of her children. Ques. Where was the most celebrated temple of Diana? Ans. At Ephesus in A

h the gift of a king. The statue of the goddess was of ebony, and the most skillful painters and sculptors were employed in

from work, and mules were adorned with garlands. Ques. Who were the most remarkable of Neptune’s children? Ans. Triton, a

Ques. What do you say of the rivers of Hell? Ans. The Styx was the most remarkable. When any of the gods swore by the Sty

ry difficult case arose it was referred to Minos. Ques. Who were the most famous among the condemned? Ans. The giants whom

he condemned? Ans. The giants whom Jupiter conquered. Typhon was the most enormous; when he was overthrown, Jupiter was obl

is place among the gods, was called an Apotheosis. Ques. Who was the most famous of the Demigods? Ans. Hercules, the son o

no, the different deities brought nuptial presents; among these, Juno most admired some branches loaded with golden apples,

was changed, after death, into a constellation which is known as the most resplendent group in the winter heavens. Perse

es. Various explanations have been given of the fable of Dædalus. The most probable opinion is that there really existed an

tans and the Gods, at the close of the work, is considered one of the most sublime passages in classic poetry; Milton has bo

the poet. He enjoyed the favor of Augustus, and the friendship of the most distinguished men in Rome; his verses were univer

en exclaimed, “Now for another mark!” and aimed a second shaft at the most insolent of the suitors. He fell dead, and as the

es. Who was Hector? Ans. He was the son of Priam and Hecuba, and the most valiant of all the Trojan chiefs who fought again

world. According to the historian Varro, they were ten in number. The most celebrated was the Cumæan Sibyl, of whom the poet

s given. Ques. Name some of the more famous oracles? Ans. Among the most celebrated were, the oracles of Jupiter at Dodona

dissatisfied with her answers. The oracle of Dodona was probably the most ancient in Greece. The temple was founded by the

it was not permitted to consult the oracle. Spring was considered the most propitious season. When Apollo was favorably disp

ius? Ans. This god was consulted by the sick in many places, but his most celebrated oracle was in his native city of Epida

believing that the approbation of so illustrious an assembly was the most certain means of establishing a great reputation

ork. Dionysius was not so fortunate. This prince believed himself the most excellent poet of the time, and employed professi

ng more conveniently placed for seeing and hearing, were esteemed the most honorable, and were reserved for the high magistr

s Temple — Apollo Belvidere — Diana à la Biche. Ques. What are the most celebrated statues of the heathen divinities? An

r at Olympia, which was worthy of such an adornment, being one of the most magnificent edifices in Greece. Ques. Describe t

upiter; it was also the work of Phidias. The Parthenon was one of the most beautiful of the Greek temples, and was enriched

edifice served also as an observatory, and was the repository of the most ancient astronomical observations. Some writers h

offered as holocausts to this cruel god. These horrid sacrifices were most frequent in Carthage. When the Sicilian Agathocle

all portion, if any, of the Sacred Books were written by him, but the most ancient passages, which are in verse, were probab

ste lower than the Sudras? Ans. No regular caste, but there exists a most unhappy race called Pariahs, who are treated with

he moon, stars, and different elements. The worship of the sun is the most important exterior part of their religion, and th

superstitious idea was attached. As they were assured of this by the most learned men of the Empire, they permitted the new

ten hired to perform inferior parts on the stage. Ques. Where is the most celebrated temple of Buddha? Ans. In Pou-tou, an

hey supposed the Lama’s soul has entered, is required to remember the most private acts of the Lama’s life, to recognize, as

contained gold and silver palaces, the dwellings of the gods, but the most famous and beautiful of these was Valhalla, the r

ingular stratagem to recover it. Ques. What was this? Ans. Thor was most anxious to recover his hammer, but the giant Thry

Who were the Druidesses? Ans. They were prophetesses or sorceresses, most generally wives or daughters of the Druids, who e

Ans. The Tauric festival, which has been already mentioned, was the most ancient, dating from the time of the Chaldees, or

pright blocks of stone, often terminating in a point; and are for the most part rough and unshapely; the ordinary height is

raight lines, forming a sort of covered gallery. Ques. Where are the most remarkable of these monuments? Ans. On the conti

remarkable of these monuments? Ans. On the continent of Europe, the most extensive series is that of Carnac in Brittany. I

ts incongruity. On the one hand we find their priests inculcating the most sublime truths of natural religion, and the pures

and the various occupations of men. Of these gods, thirteen held the most exalted rank, while the inferior class numbered o

ho was, in fact, the patron deity of the nation. His temples were the most stately of all the public edifices, and his altar

art was not needed, for the cotton took, as it grew, the richest and most varied hues. The rarest flowers filled the air wi

ch yet remain, the pyramid of Cholula is the largest, and perhaps the most perfect. It measures 176 feet in perpendicular he

in death. In speaking of human sacrifices, we have yet to mention the most revolting feature. The Mexicans, both men and wom

es. What deities were worshipped by the ancient Peruvians? Ans. Like most of the races inhabiting the American continent, t

as a time when the ancient races of the continent were plunged in the most complete barbarism: the will of the strongest was

eved to have existed between the two countries. Ques. Where were the most celebrated temples of the Sun? Ans. The most anc

. Ques. Where were the most celebrated temples of the Sun? Ans. The most ancient of these edifices was in the island of Ti

s once sparkled in the sun, and the church of St. Dominic, one of the most magnificent buildings of the New World, occupies

stices and equinoxes were celebrated by four great festivals; but the most solemn was the feast of Raymi, held at the period

h. Of the dramas written by Æschylus, but seven remain. Of these, the most admired is the “Prometheus Chained.” The subject

neral and dictator, holds a high rank among Latin authors. During the most active period of his life, he found time to devot

ge, in clearness and beauty of style. He exaggerates nothing, and his most brilliant achievements are related with a certain

Ovid and other celebrated writers of the Augustan age, were among his most intimate friends. Such was the care with which Mæ

lic capacity, he was in private life as indolent and luxurious as the most effeminate oriental. His villas were laid out wit

ng his death, Mæcenas never slept. Pelasgi. A name given to the most ancient inhabitants of Greece. They founded colon

id progress in literature, that he was generally accounted one of the most learned men of his age. He began his career as an

collection of letters in ten books. They are addressed to some of the most celebrated persons of the time, and are valuable

o whom they were ostensibly addressed. Procopius . One of the most celebrated historians of the Eastern Empire. He f

ides . This poet excelled particularly in elegiac verse. When the most distinguished poets of Greece wrote verses in hon

rought the epigram to all the perfection of which it was capable. The most celebrated of his epitaphs is the monumental insc

seven remain. Of these, the Œdipus Tyrannus and the Antigone are the most admired. Strabo . A celebrated geographer

, and its shores 12 miles distant. These ruins are believed to be the most ancient on the American continent. The Peruvians

ch come to regard Zeus, Hermes, Athene, etc., as mere persons; and in most cases the originals of the Hindu myths were compl

egends have a common source, namely, the words or phrases used by the most ancient tribes in speaking of the things which th

nts of Helios (the Sun), Selene* (the Moon), and Eos* (the Dawn). The most important of all the Titans, however, are Chronos

ed as a witness to solemn oaths. Sun-worship was one of the first and most natural forms of idolatry. The island of Rhodes w

e of Greece, though some of his shrines had a special importance. The most ancient of them was that of Dodona*, where the Pe

s of wine. The worship of Jupiter was no less extensive in Italy. The most renowned of all his shrines was undoubtedly the t

es* (Mars), Hephæstus* (Vulcan), and Hebe*. In the union of Zeus with most of his immortal wives, we shall find that an alle

usual to anticipate the Fates by consultation of the Libyan Jove. The most singular representation is that exhibiting Jupite

d to her. Her favorite flowers were the dittany, poppy, and lily. Her most famous temples were at Olympia, Argos, and Samos*

of the gods, who decided that the one who presented mankind with the most useful gift, should have the privilege of naming

eir greatest foe, and Homer tells us that he was ‘of all the gods the most detested,’ being in their eyes the grim robber wh

ed” in the ocean. Later poets mention various entrances to Hades; the most celebrated was in Italy, near Lake Avernus, over

l regions were a fruitful theme for the imagination of the poets. The most celebrated criminals were Tityus*, Tantalus*, Sis

nts of continual hunger and thirst. Above his head were suspended the most beautiful fruits, but when he attempted to snatch

rful fertility of their country to the partiality of the goddess. The most celebrated legend linked with the name of Demeter

Eleusis every fifth year. They were in honor of Demeter, and were the most celebrated of the religious ceremonies of Greece.

er, a personification of that force of nature which yearly causes the most luxuriant vegetation to spring up, only, however,

was one of Athene’s names, whence the temple of Athens, where she was most religiously worshiped, was called the Parthenon*6

occupied a very important place in the public life of the Romans. Her most ancient temple was situated opposite the Forum. I

he was worshiped as the goddess of beauty and love. Aphrodite was the most beautiful of all the goddesses. She possessed a m

ting the perfection of female beauty, and to aid him in his task, the most perfect forms the city (Athens) could supply were

ble to withstand his influence, an intimation that love is one of the most terrible and mighty forces of nature. Anteros* wa

l and literary competition held a high position in this festival. The most splendid temple of Apollo was at Delphi, which wa

ust, discovered that, having touched the lips of a goddess, it played most charmingly. He foolishly challenged Apollo to a m

l appearance. He is crowned with laurel, and wears a purple robe. The most beautiful and most celebrated of all the statues

crowned with laurel, and wears a purple robe. The most beautiful and most celebrated of all the statues of Apollo is the “A

Brauron in Attica. She was then known as the Brauronian Artemis. The most celebrated statue of this divinity is that known

ust he toil who serves the Immortal Gods, And I, who am their herald, most of all. No rest have I, nor respite. I no sooner

ere sacrificed to him because they were destructive to vineyards. The most celebrated among the myths which testify to the w

from the particular mountains or districts which they inhabited. The most celebrated among them was the Bœotian nymph Echo.

erected statues of the goddess in remembrance of their exploits. The most magnificent of these statues was the one erected

e made to them, particularly on birthdays. Janus*. Among the most important gods of the Romans was the celebrated J

uary, was called for him and dedicated to him. New-Year’s day was the most important festival of this god; the houses and do

in the study of the plan and character of the original structure. The most ancient temples known to us served a double purpo

ed to two or more gods, and was always built in the manner considered most acceptable to the particular divinities to whom i

rifices were sprinkled. In the inmost recess of the sanctuary was the most holy place, into which none but the priests were

s had no representations of their gods until the time of Cecrops. The most ancient representations consisted of square block

to force him from this asylum was considered an act of sacrilege. The most ancient altars were adorned with horns, which wer

m they also instructed as to what vows, gifts, and offerings would be most acceptable to the gods. Every deity had a differe

so as anniversaries to commemorate events of national importance. The most ancient festivals were those held after the ingat

gends concerning the origin of the human race differ very widely. The most ancient are those which describe men as having sp

yrrha became women. It was a hard race and well adapted to labor. The most distinguished persons of the race which occupied

to the ancient fable, the Centaurs were part man and part horse. The most renowned of the Centaurs was Chiron*. He was famo

assist him in gaining the government of Thebes. Adrastus invited the most powerful chiefs in his kingdom to join in the exp

and wandered about for the remainder of his life in the loneliest and most desolate places. After death he was honored at Co

e cornfields.” Cox . Heracles* (Hercules). Heracles*, the most renowned hero of antiquity, was the son of Zeus a

o him, being regarded as his birthday. “The story of Heracles is the most complicated of all the Greek myths. It sprung fro

s, and Æthra*, daughter of Pittheus*, king of Trœzen*, was one of the most famous heroes of antiquity. Ægeus, who was privat

*, the son of Œneus, proclaimed a general hunt, and invited to it the most famous heroes of the age. Among those that respon

he goddess Cybele. Dædalus* and Icarus*. Dædalus was one of the most celebrated artificers of the legendary period. He

r-in-chief of the expedition. The number of the heroes was fifty, the most distinguished of whom were Heracles, Theseus, Cas

ing at the time of the Trojan War. He was married to Hecuba*, and the most renowned of their children were the valiant Hecto

of this mighty host was intrusted to Agamemnon*, king of Mycenæ, the most powerful of all the Greek princes. The army offer

rsions into the surrounding country, in which Achilles was always the most prominent actor. The wearisome monotony of the si

grandson of Heracles, who had come to aid the Trojans. The third and most difficult condition being unfulfilled, all effort

e Trojan war is almost wholly mythical, has been conceded by even the most obstinate champions of Homeric unity. That it con

the string, and it sped through the rings. Turning to Antinous*, the most insolent of the suitors, he pierced him to the he

en Penelope knew that it must be Odysseus who stood before her, and a most touching and affectionate greeting took place bet

s* was the son of Aphrodite (Venus) and Anchises*, and was one of the most valiant of the Trojans. On the night of the destr

e second impersonated human faculties and powers; and the third — the most popular of all among the people — was made up of

f two gods and a king. Osiris*, who, with Isis* and Horus, formed the most celebrated of the triads, was worshiped throughou

gine a crocodile fresh from a warm, sumptuous bath, anointed with the most precious ointments and perfumed with fragrant odo

amid imposing ceremonies, it was laid away in its rock sepulchre. The most celebrated Egyptian book is the “Book of the Mani

ts travels, and they went on together to new dangers and ordeals. The most dreaded of all encounters was the trial in the “G

Vedas mere epithets, the meaning of which cannot be mistaken; and the most complicated legends can be traced to their germ i

ed legends can be traced to their germ in some phrase which, in these most ancient of all poems, simply described some incid

contained gold and silver palaces, the dwellings of the gods; but the most famous and beautiful of these was Valhalla*, the

er of Hela, the queen of the regions below the earth. Baldur was the most beautiful of all the dwellers in Valhalla; but, a

feet to thirty yards in diameter, constituted their sacred place. The most celebrated of these, now remaining, is Stonehenge

w-eve (last of October). On this occasion the Druids assembled in the most central part of the district to discharge the jud

language, but their religious ideas were not dissimilar. Light is the most important of all things, and, realizing this, the

dering through pathless forests, the east became to primitive man the most important of the fixed points in space; by it wer

he air with the haze of Indian summer. The Myth of Ioskeha. The most ancient myth of the Iroquois represents this eart

are so frequently referred to, my obligations to whom I at all times most cheerfully acknowledge. Should it chance to come

and the adoption of my books at Eton, Harrow, Rugby, Winchester, and most of the other great public schools, besides a numb

in books of instruction I deny any right in the public. Supposing (a most improbable event) that the study of mythology sho

ut of ill-will to the proprietors, some of whom are the publishers of most of my other works, but simply to let the world se

ate is the remuneration sometimes received by the authors of even the most successful works. I would say then, as the publis

blishers will be almost the only gainers by a change in the law ; for most authors will transfer to them all their rights if

pareil against the approach of her lover, and that the sunne runing a most even course becomes an indifferent arbiter betwee

with whom it is rich and complicated. We regard the following as the most probable mode of accounting for their existence.

s were not, strictly speaking, eternal : they were born, according to most systems of mythology ; and some, at least, assign

ry explanations of the same natural appearance. It is well known that most of the rivers of the Peloponnese have their sourc

e also been effected by the Saints, according to the popular creed in most parts of Europe. 4. The desire to account for the

hology. The theory already given appears to us to be the one which most simply and satisfactorily explains the origin of

ian mythology ; in this place we will enumerate those which have been most prevalent in modern times. These may, we think, b

the ignorant and the unwary44. It is against this system that we are most anxious to warn and guard our readers. In our eye

ology to this subject51. If applied judiciously it will at times give most valuable results ; if under no guidance but that

ve to damp ardour and check inquiry. The rule should be, — this mythe most probably has a meaning, but it is possible it may

s as far beyond our attainment as that of the other. The Greeks, like most of the ancient nations, were little inclined to r

ding to different legends, spouses of Zeus.» With these views of this most ingenious writer we agree, as far as relates to t

: but the work which may be regarded as having contributed by far the most to give it vogue, was the Sacred History (Ἱϵρὴ Ἀν

f summer dwelt numbers of men, while birds of the richest plumage and most melodious throats built their nests in the branch

the Egyptian priests. Zeus had, according to this monument, been the most potent of monarchs : the chief seat of his domini

in Greece, others, among whom Dionysius of Samos or Mytilene was the most celebrated, chose the Western coast of Africa for

een of whom, the offspring of Titaia or Earth, were named Titans. The most distinguished of their daughters were Basileia an

of the sphere, whence he was said to support the heavens. Kronos, the most impious and ambitious of the Titans, ruled over L

s in an agreeable manner the ideas entertained on this subject by the most accomplished Romans of his time. After the confli

of the mythic legends. Ephorus and Theopompus were those who devoted most attention to them, as their fragments still remai

There is one author of a peculiar character, and whose work is of the most interesting nature, we mean Pausanias, who travel

ters, which had probably been transmitted from father to son from the most remote times. If to the sources already enumerate

eks respecting foreign lands were probably the Phœnicians, who in the most distant ages visited Africa, Spain, and possibly

travellers and sailors, mingling truth and fiction, they narrated the most surprising tales of the marvels of the remote reg

se isles and coasts of the western part of the Sea were the scenes of most of the wonders of early Grecian fable. There, and

en, Hell, Chaos, and the World with its contents. It is thus that the most imaginative of modern poets, as we may perhaps ve

be signified the producers of fruits or cattle150. The Erinnyes offer most difficulty ; they may be, as some think, telluric

ghters of Heaven and Earth above enumerated alone are Titans, and the most probable derivation of the name is that which mak

the, first gave it the form of a war, and narrated its details in the most splendid poetry ; but the contradictions and vari

81 makes Sleep her charioteer. As the name of this deity is common to most of the languages which are akin to the Greek182,

g ; 9. Mortal-illuming ; 10. Much-seeing ; 11. Air-born 282, etc. The most probable derivation of the name Eôs (Ήὼς, Dor.Ἀὼς

und her. Lucian’s ‘liar of the first magnitude,’ Eucrates308, gives a most terrific description of her appearance. In this c

ctive of indifference, and the greatest charms of nature and art lose most of their attractions in the eyes of those who are

Dictæan Zeus in Crete, and of the Lycæan Zeus in Arcadia, was of the most remote antiquity, and that thence, when the Euhem

of which the piety of Hyrieus was rewarded by the birth of Oriôn. The most pleasing tale is that of Philemôn and Baucis, nar

pleasing tale is that of Philemôn and Baucis, narrated by Ovid in his most agreeable manner, to the following effect400. Zeu

In Homer we see it sometimes borne by Apollo407 and by Athena408. The most famous temple of this god was at Olympia in Elis,

plain, and the monsters of the deep gamboling around their king. His most celebrated temples were at the Corinthian isthmus

ks, began to prevail when the Greeks first visited Spain, the country most abundant in gold. The adventures of this god were

sephone (which we shall relate at length in the sequel) is one of the most celebrated in antiquity. He loved, we are told462

481 ) of the Egyptian priests on this subject, one is at a loss which most to admire at, their audacity, or the credulity of

e simple circumstance of the mortal remains of man being deposited by most nations in the bosom of the earth ; and the habit

-dress527, and a new bridal-robe was woven for it every year528. Like most of the usages and ceremonies of Greece, this Sami

a matter of much difficulty to ascertain its real character. It seems most probable, however, that it was designed to form a

wandering from place to place with her children, Leto, says a legend most prettily told by Ovid603, arrived in Lycia. The s

tress, but jumped into and muddied the water. The goddess, though the most gentle of her race, was roused to indignation : s

noured. With respect to the origin of this goddess and her name, the most simple hypothesis, in our opinion, is that which

twins635 ; while according to another he discharged for him even the most servile offices636. When the term of his servitud

may observe, occur in the parts of the Hias of which the antiquity is most dubious. It may also be doubted if the temple-leg

bject of Grecian worship, and his temples were numerous. Of these the most celebrated were that of Delphi in Phocis, — his a

was originally peculiar to the Dorian race, who were at all times his most zealous votaries. As the Homeric poems prove the

India Vishnoo is in some places more worshiped than Seeva ; Thor was most honoured by the ancient Norwegians, and Odin by t

astens it in gold ; His arrows on his shoulders sound657. One of the most beautiful descriptions of these progresses of Apo

noted the fecundity of nature. In Magnesia on the Mæander there was a most stately temple of Artemis-Leucophryne (White-brow

and the sun, whose eye surveys everything, might be looked on as the most suitable revealer of the will of Zeus to men, and

mortals, Anchises and Adonis are those whose amours with her are the most famous. The tale of her love-adventure with the f

her love-adventure with the former is noticed by Homer743, and it is most pleasingly told by a Homerid ; the following is a

noble specimen of ancient art and perception of the beautiful. The most usual epithets of Aphrodite were760, 1. Smile-lov

named at her temple in Cythera, which was regarded as the holiest and most ancient of her fanes in Greece. Her antique woode

ressing the wellknown fact, that the spring, the season in which they most prevail, is also that of love772. In the bucolic

e assigned them773. Thespiæ in Bœotia was the place in which Erôs was most worshiped. The Thespians used to celebrate games

ic poets, and his adventure with Apollo has been already noticed. The most celebrated is that contained in the agreeable tal

e with a fountain in the midst of it, and near it a stately palace of most splendid structure. She ventures to enter this pa

reviously existed, fluttering in the blaze of day, and feeding on the most fragrant and sweetest productions of the spring.

Among animals the owl and the serpent were sacred to her. Athena was most honoured in Athens, the city to which she gave na

of the name of this goddess and her original nature. The simplest and most natural interpretation of Pallas Athenæe appears

we shall presently give an explanation, was by no means uncommon. The most probable theory, in our opinion, is that which vi

dungeon. Elsewhere the poet tells us that of all the Trojans Hermeias most loved Phorbas (Feeder), rich in sheep, and bestow

y carrying a ram round the walls ; and on the festival of Hermes, the most beautiful of the Tanagrian youths bore a lamb on

king over the adventures of Hermes above related, it will appear that most of them refer to his character as a rural deity86

ination ; for we are inclined to regard the mythe of Io as one of the most remote antiquity. Chapter XI. DEMETER, — P

he protectress of the growing corn and of agriculture in general. The most celebrated event in the history of Demeter is the

father governed Eleusis, each of whose wives would, she was sure, be most happy to receive into her family a person who loo

aophamus. In the very early ages of Greece and Italy, and probably of most countries, the inhabitants of the various indepen

o discover the causes of remarkable appearances, which gave origin to most of the ideas respecting the recondite sense of th

ing ; 2. Perfect-speaking ; 3. Loud-voiced ; 4. Honey-breathing. The most probable derivation of the name Muse (Mοȗσα), see

r displeasure, at the impious violation of our sacred rights by those most bound to respect them.” This perfectly accords wi

the offspring of Zeus and Nemesis1057. The name of this goddess comes most simply from νέμω, to distribute ; and she was ori

heir unprincipled demagogues, the Athenians were by nature one of the most humane people in Greece. The more stern Spartans,

finally coalesced, the Dionysiac casting away some of its wildest and most extravagant practices. This hypothesis rests on n

t the very incidental manner in which Demeter, undoubtedly one of the most ancient deities, is noticed in the Ilias, it shou

efaced assurance the latter palmed on their unsuspecting auditors the most incredible lies. In reading the Euterpe of Herodo

f the vine-god was pragmatised when infidelity became prevalent. That most tasteless of historians Diodorus gives us, probab

s, and the gods whom they adored1130. The name Dionysos is one of the most difficult to explain in Grecian mythology. After

od Seeva, and view in Dionysos a Grecian god with a Grecian name. The most probable (though by no means quite satisfactory)

133 for whom we entertain the highest respect and esteem. “After that most happy age whose image we behold expressed in the

, mysteries, hieratic medicine, and fanatic poetry : in these too the most ancient poems of Bacis, Pamphôs, Olên, and the Si

ttributes might lead to an identification of her with Cybele1149. The most ancient statue of the Artemis of Ephesus was a bl

nature, or of the productive power of the earth, which we find among most ancient nations. Egypt is once mentioned in the I

e oblige me to tell what it were better for you not to know ? Life is most free from pain when one is ignorant of future evi

ed ourselves on the subject of the Nymphs. “In the Homeric poems, the most ancient portion of Grecian literature, we meet th

before Troy could boast descent from a Nais or a Nereïs. “One of the most interesting species of Nymphs are the Hamadryades

have seen, beloved by the god Pan. She was also, we are assured, of a most accommodating disposition to Zeus ; and while he

and one time warned him to drive his flocks down into the plain, as a most terrific winter was coming on : but Terambos, ela

in the cosmology of those times will assign them that gloomy region ; most certainly they are not on this side of Ocean. Hit

he East,) are the race of Typhoeus, whom he describes as the last and most terrible child of Earth. In Greece, as over the r

YPSO, PHÆACIANS, SYRIA AND ORTYGIA. The romantic geography of the most romantic poem of Greece, the Homeric Odyssey, is

iron for copper, is mentioned1326 ; and in Italy, in ancient times a most cypriferous region, there was a place named Temes

ay between the country of the Cyclopes and that of the Læstrygonians, most of the localisers of the Homeric fables place bot

isle of Ææa1361, the abode of Circe. This isle may be regarded as the most westerly of those scattered by the poet over the

; but as there is no whirlpool there at all resembling Charybdis, the most that can be said is, that that strait may have gi

on the tenth reached Ogygia1407, the isle of Calypso, by whom he was most kindly received and entertained. She detained him

f we are right in placing the Cyclopes on the coast of Libya, Scheria most probably lay in the sea somewhere to the north of

er, — a circumstance which in reality gives additional charms to this most delightful poem1427. The place determined by both

elight which every person of taste must feel when perusing one of the most charming monuments of human genius, — the Odyssey

d justice will be in no repute, the evil-doer and the violent will be most esteemed, ‘evil-loving Envy’ will accompany wretc

ter it, — effeminacy and violence, the two vices into which virtue is most apt to degenerate, being their respective charact

to drink ; but a snake forbade all approach. The ass, ready to faint, most earnestly implored relief : the cunning snake, wh

to Greece Proper, indeed perhaps originally to Thessaly1495 ; and it most incongruously represents others having escaped as

hich to distinguish themselves1518. It would therefore seem to be the most probable hypothesis on this subject, to suppose t

cations which we have just noticed are woven through one another in a most marvellous manner, and the gods also bear a consp

he preference to the latter mode, and shall commence at Thessaly, the most northerly portion of Greece. It must be previousl

1. Pelias was buried with great splendour by his son Acastos, and the most renowned heroes of the time in Greece contended a

om at Corinth that seven youths, and as many maidens, children of the most distinguished citizens, clad in black, with their

es by which the guilt of the offender was supposed to be removed. The most extreme case is given by making Ixiôn, that is th

ch terminated in the total discomfiture of the latter1591. One of the most celebrated of the Lapiths was Cæneus, who was sai

ct of impiety Zeus punished him by the hands of the Centaurs1594. The most celebrated of the Centaurs was Cheirôn, the son o

on of Kronos by the nymph Philyra1595. He is called by Homer1596 ‘the most upright of the Centaurs.’ He reared Iasôn and his

e language, manners, or institutions of Bœotia. It is further a thing most incredible, that a seafaring commercial people li

hich prevailed in various parts of Greece ; and of which this was the most sublime form, as it represented not criminals, as

tinguished place ; and his fame was apparently widely extended in the most remote times. Circe tells the hero of the Odyssey

long afterwards he collected an army of Arcadians and volunteers from most of the towns of Greece, and marched against Augea

hero. The number of tasks may not have been originally twelve, though most accounts agree in that number ; but they were all

to overcome it. The toils of the hero conclude with the greatest and most rare of all in the heroic age, — the conquest ove

in for the distaff and the female robe. The mythe at length concludes most nobly with the assumption of the hero into Olympo

the scene of them. We have thus given a sketch of the theory of this most able mythologist, and there is much in it to whic

with the Centaurs. The friendship between him and Peirithoös was of a most intimate nature ; yet it had originated in the mi

Being the patron-hero of the people among whom literature flourished most , he is presented to us under a more historic aspe

d thus was the real father of Odysseus1869. Homer calls Sisyphos ‘the most crafty of men1870 ;’ Hesiod speaks of him in a si

and enables him to achieve the adventure. This goddess was one of the most ancient deities of Argos, for she had a temple on

h and parentage of the celebrated Helena. The common and probably the most ancient one is that given above, that she was the

led in the Argo, and aided Peleus to storm Iolcos. Polydeukes was the most distinguished pugilist, Castôr the most expert ch

rm Iolcos. Polydeukes was the most distinguished pugilist, Castôr the most expert charioteer, of his day. Hermes bestowed on

aughter of Neleus. As the hand of this beautiful maiden was sought by most of the neighbouring princes, her father declared

he was fallen on and slain by Thyestes and Ægisthos2082. This is the most horrible legend in the Grecian mythology. It is e

th named Miletos, the son of Apollo, or of Zeus. The youth testifying most esteem for Sarpedôn, Minôs chased them out of Cre

daughter of the Sun and Perseis, by whom he had several children, the most celebrated of whom were Androgeos, Glaucos, Deuca

t ; to show how in the order of nature punishment is provided for the most secret and even unconscious violation of its laws

om died childless ; the latter, who succeeded to the kingdom, was the most wealthy of men. His three thousand mares and thei

ted, and Thetis proposing his armour as the prize of him who had done most to save his corse, Aias and Odysseus contend for

in the island of the Phæacians have been already related2237. He was most hospitably received by Alcinoös the king of that

safe from the lust of the gods who ruled over mankind2248. Hence the most fruitful source of Grecian legend was wanting in

etween Etruria and Greece or her colonies, the Grecian mythology made most rapid progress in that country ; and the deities

nations, old and new, ere the same from the beginning, and deduce the most recent fables from the springs of the primogenial

ap. iv., will be found some account of the Shâh-nâmeh, and one of its most interesting narratives. The reader will also meet

necessity of differing in opinion with this estimable critic, but we most heartily concur in the following just panegyric o

ut supra. 199. Od. x. 191. Compare Apoll. Rh. iii. 1191. 200. The most learned of poets is the only one that has alluded

249. See Voss, Mythol. Briefe, ii. 7. 8. This able critic makes two most extraordinary mistakes on this subject. He says t

in the mythic form, and in this it in some cases loses itself in the most remote antiquity.” — Welcker, Kret. Kol. 72. 618

the reading given by Wyttembach from Eusebius be the true one, as it most probably is. 641. Proleg. 300. seq. Dorians, i.

omedes it was sometimes given to Athena. Steer-driver seems to us the most probable signification (see above, p. 60.). By so

yrrh. 752. Phædrus. Spenser, who treats the Grecian mythology in the most arbitrary manner, gives, in the Faerie Quene, a p

hip when it reached Greece. See Lobeck’s Aglaophamus for all that the most extensive learning, joined with sense and sane ph

m. In the Odyssey it is an epithet of Atlas, Minôs and Æætes, and its most appropriate sense is wise. Passow, s. v. Nitzsch.

in. 153. Serv. Buc. vi. 41. Nonnus (vi. 206. seq.) gives, as usual, a most extravagant account of this deluge, which he repr

have refused their favours is common to the history and the fable of most countries. The earliest instance on record is tha

Leonnois) are to be found in the romance of the middle ages. The case most similar to the present occurs in the Persian Shâh

es, were a fiction similar to the Isle of Venus of Camôes (one of the most beautiful creations of modern genius), which he a

sion. Eternity, that which has neither end nor beginning, baffles the most profound human thought. It is impossible to think

hich has since been the inspiration alike of romancers and poets. The most learned of mythologists differ in their analysis

further proof of their position, they point to the similarity in the most ordinary words in the various languages of the sa

reflections settled into definite shape in that far-away period when most of the nations, now spread to the remotest corner

nature as beasts, and regard “even plants, inanimate objects, and the most abstract phenomena as persons with human parts an

be termed a story whose origin can never be known with certainty. To most people it has the same significance as a fable, l

etes, who pursued with great energy, for Medea had taken with her the most precious treasure of the king, his only son and h

n, of sorrow black and deep.” Milton. Achil′les [Achilles] was the most valiant of the Greek heroes in the Trojan War. He

ns, and four daughters, of whom Hygeia, the goddess of health, is the most renowned. Many temples were erected in honor of Æ

blets were hung therein by people who had been healed by him; but his most famous shrine was at Epidaurus, where, every five

es were held in his honor. This god is variously represented, but the most famous statue shows him seated on a throne of gol

es. Apollo was the accredited father of several children, but the two most renowned were Æsculapius and Phaeton. “Wilt thou

oney, and how to get oil from olives. He was a celebrated hunter. His most famous son was Actæon. Arma′ta [Armata], one of

ghter of Minos, King of Crete, after she was deserted by Theseus. The most distinguished of his children is Hymen, the god o

ites connected with the worship of these deities were so obscene that most writers refer to them as secrets which it was unl

n of Vulcan. Cœ′lus [Cœlus], also called Uranus [or Heaven], was the most ancient of the gods. Cœ′na Salia′ris [Cœna Salia

e to bestow riches or poverty on mankind, and was esteemed one of the most potent of the ancient goddesses. She is usually r

en. Jupiter was worshiped with great solemnity under various names by most of the heathen nations. The Africans called him A

master, with the lyre he was learning to use; and Orpheus charmed the most savage beasts, and even the Harpies and gods of t

res, and presided over orators and merchants. Mercury was accounted a most cunning thief, for he stole the bow and quiver of

influence which impels us to sacrifice that which we ought to cherish most dearly. “First Moloch, horrid king, besmeared wi

brook.” “Hadst thou Narcissus in thy face, to me Thou wouldst appear most ugly.” Shakespeare. Nas′trond [Nastrond]. The

a and placed amongst the stars, where his constellation is one of the most splendid. Ori′thy′ia [Orithyia]. A daughter of E

es. Juno offered him power, Pallas wisdom, and Venus promised him the most beautiful woman in the world. Paris gave the gold

and sent him to Greece to fetch Helen, who was renowned as being the most beautiful woman in the world. She was the wife of

ided over singing and rhetoric. Polyphe′mus [Polyphemus], one of the most celebrated of the Cyclops, a son of the nymph Tho

and women. They were the attendants of Dionysus, and were similar in most respects to the fauns who attended Pan. See Silen

nine Muses; she presided over dancing. Terra. The Earth; one of the most ancient of the Grecian goddesses. Thales′tris [T

ess of laws, ceremonies, and oracles. The′seus [Theseus]. One of the most famous of the Greek heroes. He was a son of Ægeus

[Trophonius]. A legendary hero of architecture, and one of Jupiter’s most famous oracles. Troy. The classic poets say that

onding with the classic Harpocrates). Virtue. A goddess worshiped by most of the ancients under various names. The way to t

the same myth occur, the preference has invariably been given to the most popular, that is to say, to the one which has ins

from tiny seeds, the greatest rivers from diminutive streams, and the most beautiful flowers and delicious fruits from small

h but one of the many current with the Greeks and Romans, was the one most generally adopted.                     “Her firs

tural convulsion; for the ancients imagined that the gods, making the most of their gigantic strength and stature, hurled hu

lants, and to abide within the bounds of his watery realm. Pluto, the most taciturn of the brothers, received for his portio

so beautiful and gentle a being can bring no evil!” and accepted her most joyfully. The first days of their union were spen

e, her surprise when she distinctly heard these words, uttered in the most pitiful accents: “Pandora, dear Pandora, have pit

o had just entered, and some upon Pandora, pricking and stinging them most unmercifully. They then flew out through the open

re manifold, and, as he could not decide which would eventually prove most efficacious, he summoned the gods to deliberate a

more distinction know, And levell’d nature lies oppress’d below; The most of mortals perish in the flood.” Ovid ( Dryden’s

na of the air, and the guardian of political order and peace, was the most prominent of all the Olympian divinities: the oth

he was called upon to perform in the future. “And godlike Ganymede, most beautiful Of men; the gods beheld and caught him

ifice bade them ask any boon, promising by the great river Styx — the most binding and solemn oath a god could utter — to gr

as long as life and strength endured, and finally die together. This most reasonable wish was immediately granted; and Jupi

quite unharmed. The Greeks were indebted to Phidias for many of their most exquisite statues of the gods; but none of the ot

of naming it. A general council was held, and after some deliberation most of the gods withdrew their claims. Soon none but

ould be entrusted to the protection of the deity who would create the most useful object for the use of man. Raising his tri

blem of war and wretchedness, they could but acknowledge her gift the most serviceable, and award her the prize. To commemor

Temples and altars without number were dedicated to her service, the most celebrated of all being the Parthenon at Athens.

ul, majestic woman, fully clothed and armed — were very numerous. The most celebrated of all, by the renowned Greek sculptor

songs of praise. Chapter V: Apollo The Beautiful God The most glorious and beautiful among all the gods was Apo

o has always been a favourite subject for painters and sculptors. The most beautiful statue of him is the Apollo Belvedere,

ily to take part in a musical contest which had attracted thither the most famous musicians from all points of the compass,

bore him in safety to the nearest shore.     “Then was there heard a most celestiall sound Of dainty musicke, which did nex

ear I will grant you whate’er you desire!’” Saxe. This oath was the most solemn any god could utter, and in case of perjur

nt ray,     Beauty, and life, and joyance from above.” Southey. The most renowned among the numerous festivals held in hon

, which has inspired poets of all ages. “Queen of the wide air; thou most lovely queen Of all the brightness that mine eyes

her pride, he decreed she should marry Vulcan, god of the forge, the most ill-favoured of all the heavenly council. This co

, whom she signally protected throughout his checkered career. Venus’ most ardent admirers and faithful worshippers were the

s provided. The offerings of young lovers were ever those which found most favour in her sight. “Venus loves the whispers  

this goddess grace the various art galleries, but among them all the most perfect is the world-renowned Venus de Milo. Venu

e two missing, gave Apollo the lyre he had just fashioned. This, like most other myths, admits of a natural explanation. Apo

her his new creation, which request he could not refuse, but granted most reluctantly, thus adding further confirmation to

rtals.” E. B. Browning. Juno mourned the loss of her faithful Argus most bitterly, and, gathering up his myriad eyes, scat

he cunning springs. Finally Mercury was sent to Vulcan, primed with a most diplomatic request to honour high Olympus with hi

having chosen Briareus as umpire, the prize was awarded to him as the most powerful of all the gods except Jupiter. Nept

due time became the happy parents of several children, among whom the most celebrated is Triton, whose body was half man and

perceiving their escape, started in pursuit of them. In spite of the most strenuous efforts, he could not overtake the flee

p of Neptune, and games were frequently celebrated in his honour. The most noted of all were undoubtedly the Isthmian Games,

in Hades the sacred river Styx, by whose waters the gods swore their most irrevocable of oaths; and the blessed Lethe, whos

ysian Fields, lighted by a sun and moon of their own, decked with the most fragrant and beautiful of flowers, and provided w

ely to weigh his words under such circumstances, and Jupiter took the most solemn of all the oaths to gratify her whim. “‘B

waters of the Styx, That flow beneath us, mightiest oath of all, And most revered by the blessed gods! Homer ( Bryant’s tr

vey him to the distant home of the Nysiades, — nymphs who guarded him most faithfully Juno, not daring to continue her perse

ill betide, We dance before him thorough kingdoms wide” Keats. The most unruly among his female followers were the Baccha

ient world, and festivals without number were held in his honour. The most noted were the Greater and Lesser Dionysia, the L

rth,     Leaf and blade, and bud and blossom, Breathe thine influence most divine On thine own child, Proserpine. “If with

t and hue,     Fairest children of the hours, Breathe thine influence most divine On thine own child, Proserpine.” Shelley.

held with great pomp; and her festivals, the Vestalia, were among the most beautiful and popular in Rome. Statues of this go

es, war, and peace, and patron of all beginnings, although one of the most important of all the Roman divinities was entirel

erefore little more than local divinities. The Lacedæmonians paid the most heed to them, and invariably placed their statues

e its contents, and thus set free the angry winds, who stirred up the most frightful tempest in mythic annals. The ancients,

s’ Pillars. The twelfth and last task appointed by Eurystheus was the most difficult of all to perform. Hercules was command

ated, and Danae no longer felt lonely and deserted, for Jupiter spent most of his time with her, pursuing his courtship most

, for Jupiter spent most of his time with her, pursuing his courtship most diligently, and finally winning her to a secret m

him train him up to avenge their wrongs. Chiron discharged his duties most faithfully, trained the young prince with great c

ed the young prince with great care, and soon made him the wisest and most skilful of his pupils. The years spent by Jason i

he Princess Medea One of these tasks would have sufficed to dismay most youths, however brave, but Jason was of hero moul

son set out in pursuit of the fugitives, who had, moreover, taken his most precious treasure, his only son and heir, Absyrtu

d entreated to marry. Many suitors came to woo the fair princess, but most of them refrained from pressing their suit when t

erity was not doomed to favour him long. Just when he fancied himself most happy, and looked forward to a peaceful old age,

which has frequently been treated by ancient artists, a few of whose most noted works are still extant in various museums.

d were wont to indulge in dancing at all times and in all places. The most famous among all the Satyrs was Silenus, Bacchus’

hat, when his mother first beheld him, she was aghast, for he was the most homely as well as the most extraordinary little c

beheld him, she was aghast, for he was the most homely as well as the most extraordinary little creature she had ever seen.

easeless wonders of this ocean-bed.’” Keats. Glaucus was worshipped most particularly by the fishermen and boatmen, whose

the irate goddesses called upon the guests to award the prize to the most deserving; but the guests, one and all, refused t

e court of Menelaus, King of Sparta, whose young wife, Helen, was the most beautiful woman of her time, if we are to believe

s. This memorable struggle is the theme of many poems. The oldest and most renowned of all, the Iliad, begins with the story

e, took place the parting scene, which has deservedly been called the most pathetic in all the Iliad, in which Andromache va

speed the work. The cares of war pertain To all men born in Troy, and most to me.’” Homer ( Bryant’s tr.). Paris, ashamed

rom Jove, who bids me say The immortals are offended, and himself The most , that thou shouldst in thy spite detain The corse

by his side on the white sandy beach, Polyphemus constantly made the most extravagant promises; but the dainty nymph merely

ud might suddenly be revealed. Circe received her self-invited guests most graciously, seated them on tapestry-covered couch

taken up her abode. Ulysses and Calypso There he was kindly and most hospitably entertained during eight long years; b

feat; and then, turning his aim towards Antinous, the handsomest and most treacherous of all the suitors, he pierced his he

any suitors, among whom Turnus, a neighbouring prince, boasted of the most exalted rank. The queen, Amata, specially favoure

badge or totem), and “regards even plants, inanimate objects, and the most abstract phenomena, as persons with human parts a

ich they have bumped their heads, and later on delight in weaving the most extraordinary tales. A little four-year-old seize

h and love. The philologists’ interpretation of myths is not only the most accredited at the present time, but also the most

ths is not only the most accredited at the present time, but also the most poetical. We therefore give a brief synopsis of t

rther to prove their position, they demonstrate the similarity of the most common words in all the languages of the same fam

er. Dutch, fader. Danish, fader. Swedish, fader. English, father. The most learned of all these philologists argues that dur

ek menos and the English mind. Moon Myths In the moon myths the most important personification is first Diana, the hor

irds, 195 Styx. River in Hades, by whose waters the gods swore their most sacred oaths, 30, 60, 65, 138, 148; Achilles bath

e interruption of one’s reading by either process is so annoying that most readers prefer to let an allusion pass unapprehen

enrich the memory with many gems of poetry, some of them such as are most frequently quoted or alluded to in reading and co

orators. Our readers may thus at the same time be entertained by the most charming fictions which fancy has ever created, a

itude for the service he had rendered in forging thunderbolts. So the most beautiful of the goddesses became the wife of the

rbolts. So the most beautiful of the goddesses became the wife of the most ill-favored of gods. Venus possessed an embroider

rning to Shakspere’s play of the Midsummer Night’s Dream, where it is most amusingly burlesqued. Cephalus and Procris.

ed, and told stories till it grew late, and played upon his pipes his most soothing strains, hoping to lull the watchful eye

r, while a third unbound the sandals from her feet. Then Crocale, the most skilful of them, arranged her hair, and Nephele,

t dreadful lake, which I never saw, but which we gods swear by in our most solemn engagements.” Phaëton immediately asked to

beneath me. The last part of the road descends rapidly, and requires most careful driving. Tethys, who is waiting to receiv

the world and choose whatever you will of what earth or sea contains most precious — ask it and fear no refusal. This only

imself on the surface, spoke to her, saying such things as he thought most likely to win her to stay; for she turned to run

came. Then Somnus called one of his numerous sons, — Morpheus, — the most expert in counterfeiting forms, and in imitating

the countenance, and mode of speaking, even the clothes and attitudes most characteristic of each. But he only imitates men,

or servants, and covered with the greatest delicacies of food and the most nectareous wines. Her ears too were feasted with

ly rose and uncovering her lamp beheld not a hideous monster, but the most beautiful and charming of the gods, with his gold

caterpillar existence, to flutter in the blaze of day and feed on the most fragrant and delicate productions of the spring.

ond century of our era. It is therefore of much more recent date than most of the legends of the Age of Fable. It is this th

y Æacus, the king, in his war with Minos, king of Crete. Cephalus was most kindly received, and the desired assistance readi

em also, and the contact of the sick gave them infection, so that the most faithful were the first victims. At last all hope

s decreed that it should be awarded to that one who produced the gift most useful to mortals. Neptune gave the horse; Minerv

beware Arachne’s fate;     Be prudent, Chloe, and submit, For you’ll most surely meet her hate,     Who rival both her art

f the mother clasped by the arm of her terrified child, is one of the most admired of the ancient statues. It ranks with the

r his skill in hunting, medicine, music, and the art of prophecy. The most distinguished heroes of Grecian story were his pu

e of the witches in Macbeth. The following lines are those which seem most strikingly to recall the ancient model: — “Round

nt and his dog and brought away the oxen in safety to Eurystheus. The most difficult labor of all was getting the golden app

Hercules the poison penetrated into all his limbs and caused him the most intense agony. In his frenzy he seized Lichas, wh

n end to his own life. Theseus thus became king of Athens. One of the most celebrated of the adventures of Theseus is his ex

e still extant. The friendship between Theseus and Pirithous was of a most intimate nature, yet it originated in the midst o

here the other celebrated national games of the Greeks. The first and most distinguished were the Olympic, founded, it was s

eseus escaped by means of the clew of Ariadne was built by Dædalus, a most skilful artificer. It was an edifice with numberl

ss through Asia, teaching the people the cultivation of the vine. The most famous part of his wanderings is his expedition t

s and Doris. Nereus and Doris were the parents of the Nereids, the most celebrated of whom were Amphitrite, Thetis, the m

mortal lover; The purple midnight veiled that mystic meeting With her most starry canopy;” etc. Tennyson, also, in his Pal

luxurious, says: — “Ye delicate! who nothing can support (Yourselves most insupportable) for whom The winter rose must blow

ask For longer life? O, I was fond of misery with him; E’en what was most unlovely grew beloved When he was with me. O my d

ngale Perched in the rosier by, so richly toned, That never from that most melodious bird Singing a love song to his broodin

novelty, the work of man, Imperial mistress of the fur-clad Russ, Thy most magnificent and mighty freak, The wonder of the n

g the train of Neptune and Amphitrite: —     “Then was there heard a most celestial sound     Of dainty music which did nex

nishment they deserved. Simonides . Simonides was one of the most prolific of the early poets of Greece, but only a

er effect the chords of human sympathy. The Lamentation of Danaë, the most important of the fragments which remain of his po

seen at early morning in the form of dew-drops on the grass.   Unlike most of the marvels of ancient mythology, there still

e injured Menelaus, was chosen commander-in-chief. Achilles was their most illustrious warrior. After him ranked Ajax, gigan

d of Hector. Protesilaus had left at home his wife, Laodamia, who was most tenderly attached to him. When the news of his de

her son’s armor on the hero who of all the survivors should be judged most deserving of it. Ajax and Ulysses were the only c

nd sleep, put to the sword, and Troy completely subdued.   One of the most celebrated groups of statuary in existence is tha

— in this, Thy former realm, I call thee from the dust!” One of the most pathetic scenes in the ancient drama is that in w

atter of dispute. There are some vestiges of tombs on the plain which most nearly answers to the description given by Homer

out to them, demanding who they were, and where from. Ulysses replied most humbly, stating that they were Greeks, from the g

could not have been more fitly placed, upon a grassy platform of the most elastic turf, on the brow of a crag commanding ha

stonishment, he said, “Now for another mark!” and aimed direct at the most insolent one of the suitors. The arrow pierced th

e present a view of the regions of the dead, depicted by one of their most enlightened poets, who drew his doctrines from th

ne of their most enlightened poets, who drew his doctrines from their most esteemed philosophers. The region where Virgil lo

gion where Virgil locates the entrance into this abode is perhaps the most strikingly adapted to excite ideas of the terrifi

ay, and he, clinging to it, was swept away with it. He besought Æneas most urgently to extend to him his hand and take him i

money to themselves, and gave no share to others; the last being the most numerous class. Here also were those who had viol

re, air, earth, and water, all which when united took the form of the most excellent part, fire, and became flame. This mate

by the natives of India, who scruple to destroy the life even of the most insignificant animal, not knowing but it may be o

Sibyls; but the Cumaean Sibyl, of whom Ovid and Virgil write, is the most celebrated of them. Ovid’s story of her life prot

ceeding through the wood, they joined the king and his party and were most favorably received. Seats were provided for them

was gladly accepted, themselves loaded with praises and promised the most liberal rewards in case of success. Iulus especia

. The word was also used to signify the response which was given. The most ancient Grecian oracle was that of Jupiter at Dod

ing in the wind, the sounds being interpreted by the priests. But the most celebrated of the Grecian oracles was that of Apo

of Æsculapius. There were numerous oracles of Æsculapius, but the most celebrated one was at Epidaurus. Here the sick so

rivance or to the agency of evil spirits. The latter opinion has been most general in past ages. A third theory has been adv

highest powers of genius and art. Of the many attempts four have been most celebrated, the first two known to us only by the

iting the perfection of female beauty, and to aid him in his task the most perfect forms the city could supply were furnishe

allusion explained in Chapter XXVII. The Apollo Belvedere. The most highly esteemed of all the remains of ancient scu

ed to all the pleasures of a luxurious capital and the society of his most distinguished contemporaries, spent the last ten

. They are both mythological poems, and from the former we have taken most of our stories of Grecian and Roman mythology. A

t of his plumage is gold-colored, and part crimson; and he is for the most part very much like an eagle in outline and bulk.

tant hiss of their king, although they might be in full feed upon the most delicious prey, leaving the sole enjoyment of the

Pliny, the Roman naturalist, out of whose account of the unicorn most of the modern unicorns have been described and fi

e Trimurti or triad of principal Hindu gods. Of the inferior gods the most important are: 1. Indra, the god of heaven, of th

e right or to punish wrong-doers, and come to the ninth, which is the most celebrated of the Avatars of Vishnu, in which he

high birth and learning, and are supported at the principal temples, most of which have been richly endowed by the former m

ists of golden and silver palaces, the dwellings of the gods, but the most beautiful of these is Valhalla, the residence of

ly. From Thor’s name is derived our word Thursday. Frey is one of the most celebrated of the gods. He presides over rain and

and sunshine and all the fruits of the earth. His sister Freya is the most propitious of the goddesses. She loves music, spr

is Loki. He is handsome and well made, but of a very fickle mood and most evil disposition. He is of the giant race, but fo

oft Than of this longing time the half.” So Frey obtained Gerda, the most beautiful of all women, for his wife, but he lost

er is a good drinker will empty that horn at a single draught, though most men make two of it, but the most puny drinker can

hat horn at a single draught, though most men make two of it, but the most puny drinker can do it in three.” Thor looked at

but that he had brought great shame on himself. “And what grieves me most ,” he added, “is that ye will call me a person of

lose it between his head and tail. Thy wrestling with Elli was also a most astonishing feat, for there was never yet a man,

ode on to the palace, where he found his brother Baldur occupying the most distinguished seat in the hall, and passed the ni

color, they appeared only at night, for they avoided the sun as their most deadly enemy, because whenever his beams fell upo

ure, and for the runes which they carved and explained. They were the most skilful artificers of all created beings, and wor

of all created beings, and worked in metals and in wood. Among their most noted works were Thor’s hammer, and the ship Skid

feet to thirty yards in diameter, constituted their sacred place. The most celebrated of these now remaining is Stonehenge,

and. On this occasion the Druids assembled in solemn conclave, in the most central part of the district, to discharge the ju

ent on them the comforts of life. Marriage also was allowed them, and most of them seem to have entered into that state. Tru

No. 3. Page 63. Medio tutissimus ibis. —  Ovid . You will go most safely in the middle. No. 4. Page 67. Hic

s chosen Œnone as the subject of a short poem; but he has omitted the most poetical part of the story, the return of Paris w

a systematized presentation and interpretation of the myths that have most influenced English literature. At the request of

ch it gingerly; they have feared so much to wring its withers that in most children the memory has grown too soft for saddli

es, 1200 years before Christ, or by Christ himself in the days of the most critical Jewish scholarship; by a Menenius when R

and Athenian tyrants, or by La Fontaine to the Grand Monarch and the most highly civilized race of seventeenth century Euro

the seventeenth century, by Jacob Bryant in 1774, and in this century most ably by Gladstone.8 § 8. We are now ready for th

then, that “the savage and senseless element in mythology is, for the most part, a legacy from ancestors of civilized races

The senseless element in the myths would, by this theory, be, for the most part, a “survival.” Instead, then, of deteriorati

that he conferred upon those of his tribesmen that were shrewdest and most influential. This mental condition of the myth-ma

rst words spoken of them by the children of men. And then, in all the most beautiful and enduring myths, we shall find not o

after truth. Whatever reservations scholars may make on other points, most of them will concur in these: that some myths cam

of the two wars against Thebes.27 Hesiod is, like Homer, one of the most important sources of our knowledge of Greek mytho

Ibycus (540 b.c.), Anacreon (530 b.c.), and Pindar (522 b.c.) are the most prominent, have contributed much to our knowledge

nying the train of Neptune and Amphitrite: — “Then was there heard a most celestial sound Of dainty music which did next en

l the raging seas for joy forgot to roar.” Simonides was one of the most prolific of the early poets of Greece, but only a

er effect the chords of human sympathy. The Lamentation of Danaë, the most important of the fragments which remain of his po

ater chapter of this book.28 Myths received their freest and perhaps most ideal treatment at the hands of the greatest lyri

. They are both mythological poems, and from the former we have taken most of our stories of Grecian and Roman mythology. Th

terests us as the compiler of a clever romance, The Golden Ass,31 the most pleasing episode of which, the story of Cupid and

r prehistoric darkness, but the Skalds of Iceland continued to play a most important part in the literary development of the

or of the Elder Edda. But, of recent years, scholars have looked with most favor upon a derivation from the Icelandic óðr, w

re national property.43 Of these mythic-heroic prose compositions the most important to us is the Völsunga Saga, which was p

om a common cradle, are of independent growth. The last theory is the most tenable.47 Concerning the history of the Nibelung

r Holy Scriptures of the Hindoos, which fall into four divisions. The most ancient, the Rig-veda, consists of hymns of an el

mythical tradition. It contains several well-rounded epic poems, the most beautiful of which is the Episode of Nala, — a pr

). The stories of Greek, Roman, Norse, and German mythology that have most influenced our English literature will follow in

of the egg proceeded Eros (Love) and other wondrous beings. But the most consistent account of the origin of the world and

s and of numerous other military or predatory expeditions. ———— Since most of the myths in Chapters IV to XXVII are best kno

r was the supreme ruler of the universe, wisest of the divinities and most glorious. In the Iliad he informs the other gods

hose who inquired concerning the future. This oracular shrine was the most ancient in Greece. According to one account two b

tree of life, heavy with apples golden like the sunset. Juno was the most worthy of the goddesses, the most queenly; ox-eye

olden like the sunset. Juno was the most worthy of the goddesses, the most queenly; ox-eyed, says Homer; says Hesiod, golden

of Jupiter and Juno. The meaning of the name, Ares, is uncertain; the most probable significations are the Slayer, the Aveng

grief; and when he complains to Jupiter, he is snubbed as a renegade most hateful of all the gods.76 His loved one and mist

us of Melos (in the Louvre) Of artistic conceptions of Aphrodite, the most famous are the statues called the Venus of Melos,

rom the rays of the sun. § 43. Of the Lesser Divinities of Heaven the most worthy or mention are: — (1) Cupid (Eros), small

the lower world. Of the institutions founded, or favored, by her the most important were the mysteries celebrated at Eleusi

family of fifty fair daughters, the Nereïds. Of these daughters, the most famous are Galatea, Thetis, and Amphitrite; the l

ide the Oceanids and the Nereïds, who have already been mentioned, of most importance were the Naiads, daughters of Jupiter.

talked, told stories till it grew late, and played upon his pipes his most soothing strains, hoping to lull the watchful eye

lf in hunting and tending the flocks. Amphion, himself, is one of the most famous of mythical musicians. Having become king

ds decreed that it should be awarded to the one who produced the gift most useful to mortals. Neptune gave the horse; Minerv

beneath me. The last part of the road descends rapidly, and requires most careful driving. Tethys, who is waiting to receiv

his mother’s death the infant was intrusted to the charge of Chiron, most famous of the Centaurs, himself instructed by Apo

re: And thence rise, tree-like grow through pain to joy, More joy and most joy, — do man good again. So to the struggle off

r, while a third unbound the sandals from her feet. Then Crocale, the most skilful of them, arranged her hair, and Nephele,

ond century of our era. It is therefore of much more recent date than most of the classic myths. To this fact Keats alludes

an, whose tongs he borrowed; and upon Mars, whose sword he stole. The most famous exploit of the Messenger, the slaughter of

ss through Asia, teaching the people the cultivation of the vine. The most famous part of his wanderings is his expedition t

e birth, Leaf and blade, and bud and blossom, Breathe thine influence most divine On thine own child, Proserpine. “If with m

scent and hue, Fairest children of the hours, Breathe thine influence most divine On thine own child, Proserpine.” 205 § 1

d by his father with a lyre and taught to play upon it, he became the most famous of musicians; and not only his fellow-mort

ngale Perched in the rosier by, so richly toned, That never from that most melodious bird Singing a love-song to his broodin

w as she had come. But Somnus called one of his sons — Morpheus — the most expert in counterfeiting forms of men, to perform

Or pass beyond the goal of ordinance Where all should pause, as is most meet for all? “A soft air fans the cloud apart

Looks over Wall Street’s mingled nations, — Where Jews and Gentiles most are wont To throng for trade and last quotations,

d keeper of bees, still, he was son of Cyrene, a water-nymph, and his most interesting adventure brought him into contact wi

üs, not content with advancing his claim as lord of the mightiest and most ancient river of Greece, insinuated suspicions wi

r race that of Deucalion, gives us the heroes of the Hellenic branch, most notably those descended from Æolus. With these fa

branch, most notably those descended from Æolus. With these families most of the Older Heroes are, by blood or by adventure

intent, attacked the wedding party, and would have broken it up with most admired disorder, but Mid the fabled Libyan brid

us. Fig. 82. Atlas bearing the world. [Statue: Müller.] One of the most difficult labors was the eleventh, — the robbery

ed themselves to him. Hercules promptly despatched the thief. Through most of these expeditions Hercules was attended by Iol

itters the spacious home, made glad with imperial splendor, — Ay, but most — in the hall midmost — is the couch of the godde

’d marble, standing there; A daughter of the gods, divinely tall, And most divinely fair. Her loveliness with shame and wit

s had left at home his wife Laodamia (a niece of Alcestis), — who was most tenderly attached to him. The story runs that whe

er son’s armor on that hero who of all the survivors should be judged most deserving of it. Ajax and Ulysses were the only c

out at them, demanding who they were and where from. Ulysses replied most humbly, stating that they were Greeks, from the g

stonishment, he said, “Now for another mark!” and aimed direct at the most insolent one of the suitors. The arrow pierced th

Vergil locates the entrance to the infernal regions is, perhaps, the most strikingly adapted to excite ideas of the terrifi

away, and he clinging to it was swept away with it. He besought Æneas most urgently to extend to him his hand and take him i

money to themselves, and gave no share to others; the last being the most numerous class. Here also were those who had viol

re, air, earth, and water, all which when united took the form of the most excellent part, fire, and became flame. This mate

ceeding through the wood they joined the king and his party, and were most favorably received. Seats were provided for them

was gladly accepted, themselves loaded with praises and promised the most liberal rewards in case of success. Iulus especia

lf for the goddesses — consists of golden and silver palaces: but the most beautiful of these is Valhalla, the great hall of

and sunshine and all the fruits of the earth. His sister Freya is the most propitious of the goddesses. She loves music, spr

er is a good drinker will empty that horn at a single draught, though most men make two of it, but the most puny drinker can

hat horn at a single draught, though most men make two of it, but the most puny drinker can do it in three.” Thor looked at

but that he had brought great shame on himself. “And what grieves me most ,” he added, “is that ye will call me a person of

lose it between his head and tail. Thy wrestling with Elli was also a most astonishing feat, for there was never yet a man,

ft Than of this longing time the half.” So Freyr obtained Gerda, the most beautiful of all women, for his wife, but he lost

ode on to the palace, where he found his brother Balder occupying the most distinguished seat in the hall, and passed the ni

ty brown color, appeared only at night. They avoided the sun as their most deadly enemy, because his beams changed them imme

ure, and for the runes which they carved and explained. They were the most skilful artificers of all created beings, and wor

of all created beings, and worked in metals and in wood. Among their most noted works were Thor’s hammer, and the ship Skid

ughter, Signy by name; and of the sons Sigmund was the eldest and the most valiant. And the Volsungs abode in peace till Sig

le story, as that of the daughters of Danaüs. Catullus (87 b.c.), the most original of Roman love-poets, gives us the Nuptia

s, Here, in the Epic of Hades. In Art. — Of the statues of Juno, the most celebrated was that made by Polyclitus for her te

tre surmounted by a cuckoo. Of the extant representations of Juno the most famous are the torso in Vienna from Ephesus, the

freedom from any transient expression; in other words, by repose. The most important copy extant is of the Roman period. The

ivals of the Apollo-myth in that way is impossible. Festivals. — The most important were as follows: (1) the Delphinia, in

or ceased to burn till kingdoms were no more.” In Art. — One of the most esteemed of all the remains of ancient sculpture

Thyone, mother of Dionysus ( Preller 1. 259). The epithets and names most frequently applied to Aphrodite are: the Paphian,

tti, Sonnets; Venus Verticordia, Venus Victrix. In Art. — One of the most famous of ancient paintings was the Venus rising

the perfection of female beauty, and that to aid him in his task the most perfect forms the city could supply were furnishe

und with beauty.” — Childe Harold 4: 49-53. Of modern paintings the most famous are the Sleeping Venus and other represent

(Artemis). Her name has been identified with the adjective Calliste ( most fair), which was certainly applied to Artemis her

the mother, clasped by the arm of her terrified child, is one of the most admired of the ancient statues. It ranks with the

nesus. Æsculapius: there were numerous oracles of Æsculapius, but the most celebrated was at Epidaurus. Here the sick sought

through the foliage where Endymion lay.” Poems. — Beside Keats’ the most important are by Lowell, Longfellow, Clough (Epi

caterpillar existence, to flutter in the blaze of day and feed on the most fragrant and delicate productions of the spring.

issus: four rivers in Phocis, Attica, and Argolis bear this name. The most famous runs near Athens. Illustrative. — Echo: C

here the other celebrated national games of the Greeks. The first and most distinguished were the Olympic, founded, it was s

Epic of Hades. See Frothingham’s translation of Lessing’s Laocoön (a most important discussion of the Laocoön group and of

could not have been more fitly placed, upon a grassy platform of the most elastic turf, on the brow of a crag commanding ha

s Sibyls; but the Cumæan Sibyl, of whom Ovid and Vergil write, is the most celebrated of them. Ovid’s story of her life prot

unciation of Greek and Latin Proper Names. [These rules will cover most cases, but they are not intended to exhaust the s

ying power of the sun, and of the waters of the Nile. In general, the most human and most beneficent of the Egyptian deities

he sun, and of the waters of the Nile. In general, the most human and most beneficent of the Egyptian deities. He is the son

nd. Maruts: deities of the storm. Agni: the youngest and one of the most important of the Vedic gods; lord of fire, born o

arewell of Hector to Andromache his wife and Astyanax his son, is the most delicate and pathetic in the Iliad (6: 370-500).

d their little daughter with a foolish fondness. They thought her the most beautiful creature in the world. They would say s

ugh Venus was a goddess, she was just like a silly woman. She was the most beautiful of all goddesses, and if any mortal was

ople love whom he pleased. He could make a pretty young girl love the most ill-looking, disagreeable man that can be imagine

ach tree. Near him were the venerable images of Isis, and Osiris, the most ancient deities of Egypt, and the parents of Harp

ere alone, she said to herself, “Now I will prepare myself to see the most frightful monster in the world; but that which is

y woman miserable. “There can be no doubt,” said one, “that he is the most frightful monster living; and as the oracle said

be very happy if she could reconcile a goddess who, she knew, was the most beautiful among the immortals. She hoped she migh

sfaction. The beautiful eyes of Venus were just fixed upon her with a most vengeful expression. It seemed to the trembling P

persecuted Psyche. Mother. She was perhaps some king’s daughter; the most beautiful woman at that time known. Ann. Did the

and, to show that she was the patroness of female industry. Among the most beautiful young girls whom Mercury saw in the pro

ouse, but Aglauria placed herself in the way, and stopped him. In the most eloquent manner Mercury besought her to admit him

him a staff, with which he could walk every where as securely as the most dear-sighted person. When Lyriope consulted Tires

bosom of the stream. He thought he saw a beautiful water-nymph — the most lovely image he had ever seen — and he longed to

ing with some young girls, her friends. They all thought the bull the most beautiful animal they had ever seen. Europa wove

risteus, and they had a son called Acteon. This Acteon was one of the most expert hunters in the world. Acteon being one day

s, and traversing the fields and forests, shouting and dancing in the most frantic manner. Sometimes they made processions.

o be punished. Minerva, to punish Medusa, changed her beauty into the most frightful ugliness, and her fine hair into snakes

ollo and the Python. Of all the gods of antiquity, Apollo was the most beautiful. He was perhaps the sun, and was someti

lled glory. Too much love of it is vain-glory. Apollo’s favourite and most honourable crown was the laurel, and you shall re

Story of Pan and Syrinx. Among the nymphs of Arcadia, one of the most beautiful was Syrinx, the daughter of Ladon. Syri

w hated Io more than ever, and she drove her from place to place by a most cruel contrivance; this was the incessant buzzing

on; “my father was Apollo, the son of your father, and is himself the most graceful, beautiful, and accomplished of all divi

iolate oath of the gods, that whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will most assuredly grant thee.” Phæton eagerly took advant

nged them to poplars. These trees, in the course of years, became the most beautiful and abundant of the sylvan ornaments of

had died, or who had not yet been born. But the gods the Greeks loved most were the gods of the sky. They were beautiful and

l of violets and lilies. Of all places in the world, Proserpina loved most the valley of Enna. Here there was a clear lake,

d Proserpina, weeping afresh. Then Pluto looked sullen, and said that most persons were not unwilling to be queens and wear

r altars were smoking with sacrifices. And of all the world, the spot most blessed was the home of Epimetheus. There stood t

re and sang. Thus Orpheus had many friends. But the one who loved him most was the beautiful goddess-born Eurydice, and Orph

f up to the service of King Eurystheus. Eurystheus was said to be the most ignoble ruler in all the world. From this time, h

s. These twelve tasks were called the “Twelve Labors of Hercules.” In most of them he had to conquer some fierce beast. He h

, the ancient goddess Earth raised her voice. She it was who suffered most , and in her suffering she called to Jupiter: — “I

ng of the fight with the Minotaur which must take place next day, but most of all he was thinking of beautiful Ariadne. Sudd

apple to me, Paris,” she said. “Give it to me, and you shall have the most beautiful woman in the world. She lives now far a

enly as Venus herself, and Paris knew that she and none other was the most beautiful woman in the world. That night the sky

marble, standing there, A daughter of the gods, divinely tall,    And most divinely fair. Her loveliness with shame and wit

had given the golden apple to Venus. But now Paris was dead. And the most beautiful woman in the world, Queen Helen, steppe

and curdled some of the milk and stored it away, but he put aside the most of it in bowls for his supper. Then, first, he no

ged man in,” said Telemachus. “No; send him away,” said Antinoüs, the most insolent of the suitors. “We want no beggars here

s). Son of Nestor; Grecian warrior against Troy; 190. Antin΄oüs. The most insolent of the suitors of Penelope, 240. Aphrod

god of love, 57. Cy΄c lops (si΄klops.) Giants with but one eye. The most famous is Polyphemus, 220. Dan΄aë. Daughter of A

nd was himself killed by Achilles, 198. Hel΄en. Queen of Sparta; the most beautiful woman in the world; carried off by Pari

seus.” 3. From John Stuart Blackie’s “Theseus.” 4. According to the most common form of the story, Theseus deserted Ariadn

originated. In this little book I have gathered together some of the most pleasing of these myths, and have told them in si

nd a train of young girls and wood nymphs followed. As Apollo was the most beautiful of all the gods, so Venus, the queen of

in the woods or go through a tunnel. In fact, I should not wonder if most of you have already tried giving some call when y

nly he paused in wonder, for reflected in the smooth surface, was the most beautiful face he had ever seen. He looked at it

d of skin, they had large scales; their hands were made of brass; but most horrible of all, in place of hair on their heads,

orgon in the face, was immediately turned to stone! Of the three, the most terrible was Medusa; and the task that the king h

r came the serpent, lashing the water with its tail and snorting in a most horrible manner. Now it had almost reached the ro

, raising her arms toward heaven, she cried, “You have taken revenge, most cruel Latona, and think you have broken my heart.

ago, there was born a little baby who grew up to be the strongest and most wonderful man of his time. When he was but a few

last, she remembered the words of the dying centaur. She sent for her most faithful servant, and giving him the shirt, told

e beautiful statues and carvings of all kinds, and he was, besides, a most skillful builder. The most wonderful thing that h

vings of all kinds, and he was, besides, a most skillful builder. The most wonderful thing that he had ever built was a stra

e in Athens grew to like him, for he was a frank, generous youth, and most skillful in all the games in which he took part.

ht. The wicked people and their dwellings had all been destroyed. But most wonderful of all, in place of their own little co

he grass — dead. Poor Cyparissus! He had killed the creature he loved most in all the world, and his grief was sad to see. H

enjoy its cool freshness. But the mixture Circe had given Glaucus was most horrible, for it bred monsters. Scarcely had Scyl

ood before his block of marble, and worked away happily. Gradually, a most beautiful figure began to take shape in the stone