orm, which subjected them to the inconvenience of long dictations, it was preferred to any of the ordinary text-books on th

prepared for the press. In carrying out the plan, the subject matter was carefully classified, and such additions made as

deemed necessary for completeness. As a farther precaution, the whole was submitted to the revision of an eminent classical

corruption, and presenting dangerous images to the youthful mind. It was this difficulty which first led to the preparatio

lly understood or appreciated without some knowledge of Mythology. It was mingled with every theme of the classic poet, and

th in the old and the new world, and we are forced to believe that it was drawn from a common fount of primeval tradition.

came corrupt, the sublime idea of one God, self-existent and eternal, was lost or obscured. We find it, though vaguely perh

r and partial sovereignty. The god whom the warrior invoked in battle was powerless to bless the field he cultivated in tim

bless the field he cultivated in time of peace; the power of Jupiter was worshipped in the rolling thunder; but when the e

dwelt in a peaceful world, ignorant alike of sorrow and of sin. This was the Golden Age. Avarice and discord were unknown;

the mine. Ovid thus describes the days of innocence: “The Golden Age was first, when man, yet new, No rule but uncorrupted

unawed by fear, His words were simple, and his soul sincere; Needless was written law where none oppressed; The law of man

incere; Needless was written law where none oppressed; The law of man was written in his breast: No suppliant crowds before

ant crowds before the judge appeared, No court erected yet, nor cause was heard, But all was safe; for conscience was their

he judge appeared, No court erected yet, nor cause was heard, But all was safe; for conscience was their guard. ……………………………

rt erected yet, nor cause was heard, But all was safe; for conscience was their guard. ……………………………………………………… No walls were

……………………… No walls were yet, nor fence, nor moat, nor mound, Nor drum was heard, nor trumpet’s angry sound, Nor swords were

and crime, The soft creation slept away their time.” The Silver Age was far inferior to that of gold; but virtue still dw

oet says: “Then land-marks limited to each his right; For all before was common as the light. Nor was the ground alone req

imited to each his right; For all before was common as the light. Nor was the ground alone required to bear Her annual inco

moned, to the palace of Jupiter. Even those deities whose usual abode was on the earth, in the waters, or in the lower shad

als by the music of Apollo’s lyre, and the songs of the Muses. Vulcan was smith, architect and chariot builder to the gods.

were wrought by Minerva and the Graces. Everything of a solid nature was constructed of metal. The Gods — Different Cla

e at will, and were otherwise endowed with supernatural powers. There was this restraint upon their wonder-working gifts: n

There was this restraint upon their wonder-working gifts: no divinity was permitted to reverse the act of another. For exam

ory of Europa — Search of Cadmus — Punishment of Lycaon. Ques. Who was Jupiter? Ans. He was the king and father of gods

of Cadmus — Punishment of Lycaon. Ques. Who was Jupiter? Ans. He was the king and father of gods and men. He is genera

tands at his side. Jupiter is sometimes called Jove, and as the eagle was sacred to him, it is often called the bird of Jov

r garment would be more comfortable for the god at all seasons, as it was neither so heavy in summer, nor so cold in winter

was neither so heavy in summer, nor so cold in winter. Ques. Of whom was Jupiter the son? Ans. He was the son of Saturn a

, nor so cold in winter. Ques. Of whom was Jupiter the son? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops. According to the fable

concealing Jupiter from him. She sent him secretly to Crete where he was educated on Mount Ida, by the nymphs, or, accordi

e, by the priestesses of Cybele [Cyb′ele]. The goat which suckled him was placed afterwards amongst the constellations. Ops

e same manner. Ques. What were Jupiter’s first exploits? Ans. Titan was so much enraged against Saturn for failing to des

or private virtue. Ques. Relate some of these fables. Ans. Jupiter was married to Juno, to whom he first appeared in the

is gave rise to many adventures, celebrated by the poets. Ques. What was the story of Europa [Euro′pa]? Ans. Jupiter was

e poets. Ques. What was the story of Europa [Euro′pa]? Ans. Jupiter was struck by the beauty of Europa, daughter of Ageno

gled with the herd that grazed in the meadow where the young princess was gathering flowers. Europa, attracted by the beaut

into the sea, and carried her to the unknown shores of Europe, which was named from her. Ques. On what was the story of E

he unknown shores of Europe, which was named from her. Ques. On what was the story of Europa probably founded? Ans. It is

bably founded? Ans. It is probable that some sea captain, or pirate, was attracted by the beauty of the young princess, an

t her loss, the courtiers, and perhaps the oracles, pretended that it was a god who had taken her away. As this report was

s, pretended that it was a god who had taken her away. As this report was flattering to his pride, he would of course be pl

. Ques. Relate the story of Cadmus. Ans. Cadmus, the son of Agenor, was ordered by his father to go in search of his sist

her, went to consult the oracle of Apollo as to what he should do. He was directed by the god to follow a young heifer, whi

e fields, and to mark the place where she should lie down to rest. He was to build a city on that spot, and call the surrou

sacrifice to Jupiter on the site of his intended town, the solemnity was interrupted by a terrible event. The attendants o

us, in searching for water, had entered a grove sacred to Mars, which was guarded by a mighty dragon. On perceiving him, th

ceeded to the spot, and found his servants lifeless, while the dragon was basking at his ease upon the grass. The hero, aro

le combat ensued, in which Cadmus, through the assistance of Minerva, was victorious. As he gazed upon his expiring foe, he

m with the vengeance of the god whose grove he had desecrated. Cadmus was at first dismayed, but Minerva told him to sow th

nd his flesh to be served for the entertainment of his guest. Jupiter was seized with indignation; he overturned the tables

oyed the palace with lightning, and when the tyrant strove to fly, he was transformed into a savage wolf. Chapter III. P

on — Transformation Of Daphne — Things Sacred To Apollo. Ques. Who was Apollo? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Laton

f Daphne — Things Sacred To Apollo. Ques. Who was Apollo? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Latona [Lato′na]. This god

pollo? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Latona [Lato′na]. This god was , with his twin-sister Diana, born at Delos, an is

he serpent Python to destroy her. One of the first exploits of Apollo was to kill the Python with his arrows. Ques. How is

ting rays. Apollo, like other divinities, had many names. Ques. What was the cause of Apollo’s being driven from heaven?

’s being driven from heaven? Ans. He had a son named Æsculapius, who was so skilled in medicine that he was even able to r

He had a son named Æsculapius, who was so skilled in medicine that he was even able to restore the dead to life. Hippolytus

ad to life. Hippolytus [Hippol′ytus], son of Theseus, king of Athens, was killed by sea-monsters. Æsculapius, by bringing h

ffended Jupiter that the latter killed him with a thunderbolt. Apollo was much grieved, and, as he could not take revenge o

had the misfortune accidentally to kill Hyacinthus, a boy to whom he was much attached. Apollo mourned deeply for the yout

rom his blood, which is called the hyacinth. Cyparissus [Cyparis′sus] was also beloved by the god. The boy grieved so deepl

always used at funerals. After many adventures and wanderings, Apollo was restored to the favor of Jupiter, and to heaven.

Hercules, however, descended to the shades, and rescued Alcestis, who was restored to her husband. Euripides has founded on

ict with him on that point. Ques. Relate these stories. Ans. Apollo was challenged by Marsyas to a contest in music. The

Ans. Apollo was challenged by Marsyas to a contest in music. The god was not content with defeating the presumptuous music

ch is still known by his name. The punishment inflicted on King Midas was not so cruel. This prince had the bad taste to de

ss. Midas endeavored to cover the deformity by his hair, and since it was impossible to conceal it from his barber, he boun

dug a little hole in the ground, and whispered it to the earth. What was his dismay at hearing the hollow reeds which grew

that whatever he should touch might be turned into gold. This prayer was granted, and he was at first overjoyed to see pla

ould touch might be turned into gold. This prayer was granted, and he was at first overjoyed to see plants, stones and all

ssed by hunger, he tried to partake of the food placed before him, it was suddenly converted into gold, and when he would h

rted into gold, and when he would have quenched his thirst, the water was changed into a golden stream. Famished in the mid

actolus [Pac′tolus]. Midas obeyed, but the virtue which left his body was communicated to the waters of the stream, which w

ich left his body was communicated to the waters of the stream, which was famous ever after for its golden sands. Ques. Wh

stream, which was famous ever after for its golden sands. Ques. Who was Phæton? Ans. He was the son of Phœbus and Clymen

mous ever after for its golden sands. Ques. Who was Phæton? Ans. He was the son of Phœbus and Clymene [Clym′ene]. At the

the purpose of having his parentage publicly acknowledged. The youth was kindly received, and Apollo swore by the Styx to

ed to dissuade him from his foolish wish, but in vain. The rash youth was not able to control the fiery horses of the Sun;

perceived the danger, and struck Phæton with a thunderbolt. His body was hurled into the river Po, where it was found and

n with a thunderbolt. His body was hurled into the river Po, where it was found and buried by the nymphs of the place. As h

round his tomb, they were changed by Jupiter into poplars. Ques. Who was Daphne? Ans. A nymph beloved by Apollo: she was

poplars. Ques. Who was Daphne? Ans. A nymph beloved by Apollo: she was changed into a laurel while she was flying from t

s. A nymph beloved by Apollo: she was changed into a laurel while she was flying from the pursuit of the god. Ques. What t

Names given to Mars — His Temple — Priests called Salii. Ques. Who was Mars? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno, a

— His Temple — Priests called Salii. Ques. Who was Mars? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno, and was worshipped a

Ques. Who was Mars? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno, and was worshipped as the god of war. Ques. How was he r

of Jupiter and Juno, and was worshipped as the god of war. Ques. How was he represented? Ans. As a warrior in splendid ar

h guards against surprise. Ques. What other names had Mars? Ans. He was called Quirinus [Quiri′nus] when he was quiet, Gr

ther names had Mars? Ans. He was called Quirinus [Quiri′nus] when he was quiet, Gradivus [Gradi′vus] when he was raging; t

Quirinus [Quiri′nus] when he was quiet, Gradivus [Gradi′vus] when he was raging; therefore the Romans built him two temple

h their shields. Their name comes from the Latin word “to dance,” and was considered appropriate, because Mars is inconstan

us, the poets relate but little of Mars. Bellona, the goddess of war, was , according to some, the sister of Mars. She is ge

exciting the combatants by her cries. The temple of Bellona at Rome, was without the city, near the Carmental gate. Here t

onsidered the Patron of Thieves — Story of Io and Argus. Ques. Who was Mercury? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Maia

f Thieves — Story of Io and Argus. Ques. Who was Mercury? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Maia [Ma′ia], the daughter

pents. Ques. How are these different equipments named? Ans. The rod was called Caduceus [Cadu′ceus], and possessed a wond

d possessed a wonderful faculty for quieting all disputes. His helmet was called Petasus [Pet′asus], and his winged sandals

ices of Mercury? Ans. They were various; his most important function was to carry the commands of Jupiter. Mercury is comm

d, and made their beds. Ques. What else is said of Mercury? Ans. He was the inventor of letters, and excelled in eloquenc

ipped him as the patron of orators, under the name of Hermes. Mercury was also the inventor of weights and measures, and th

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

of his birth, he stole some cattle from King Admetus, although Apollo was keeping them; and while that god was bending his

om King Admetus, although Apollo was keeping them; and while that god was bending his bow against him, he contrived to stea

ceptre of Jupiter. He intended also to steal Jove’s thunderbolts, but was fearful they would burn him. Mercury was, therefo

eal Jove’s thunderbolts, but was fearful they would burn him. Mercury was , therefore, the patron of thieves. Ques. Relate

istory of Io and Argus. Ans. Io, the daughter of Inachus [In′achus], was beloved by Jupiter. He strove to hide her from th

pected the deceit, and begged the beautiful heifer as a gift. Jupiter was afraid to refuse, and Juno consigned the unhappy

er commanded Mercury to slay Argus and deliver Io. To effect this, it was necessary to set all his eyes to sleep. Mercury d

his falchion, and cut off the head of Argus with a single blow. Juno was grieved for her servant, and placed his eyes in h

to her original form, or to terminate her misfortunes by death. Juno was touched with compassion, and allowed Jupiter to g

touched with compassion, and allowed Jupiter to grant her request. Io was restored to human form, and married to Osiris, ki

was restored to human form, and married to Osiris, king of Egypt; she was afterwards worshipped in that country under the n

of stone, which they called Hermæ, but the head which surmounted them was not always that of Mercury. These pillars were so

all the Hermæ in Athens were mutilated in the same night. Alcibiades was accused of this sacrilege, and was obliged to tak

ated in the same night. Alcibiades was accused of this sacrilege, and was obliged to take refuge in Cergos from the indigna

her Sisters — Transformation of Mariners into Dolphins. Ques. Who was Bacchus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Seme

rmation of Mariners into Dolphins. Ques. Who was Bacchus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Semele [Sem′ele] and was w

was Bacchus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Semele [Sem′ele] and was worshipped as the god of wine. Ques. How is he r

leaves; a troop of demons and drunken satyrs follow him. Ques. What was the story of Semele? Ans. She was destroyed by t

ken satyrs follow him. Ques. What was the story of Semele? Ans. She was destroyed by the jealousy of Juno. This goddess v

h encompassed him in heaven. All happened as Juno desired, and Semele was consumed by the lightnings which surrounded Jupit

hich surrounded Jupiter. Bacchus did not share his mother’s fate, but was conveyed to Naxos, where he was educated by some

did not share his mother’s fate, but was conveyed to Naxos, where he was educated by some nymphs. Ques. How did Bacchus r

e nymphs in their care of Bacchus? Ans. An old man named Silenus. He was considered a demi-god. Ques. How is Silenus repr

have subdued India, and many other countries of the East. Ques. How was he worshipped? Ans. The goat and the hog were of

ed this festival. Ques. Relate the story of Pentheus? Ans. Pentheus was king of Thebes. He not only refused to acknowledg

her of Pentheus, and her sisters, were the leaders in this act, which was considered to have been performed under a divine

considered to have been performed under a divine impulse. Ques. What was the punishment inflicted on Alcithoe [Alcitho′e]

dissuade them from the crime, the more so, as he perceived that there was something more than mortal about the captive yout

than mortal about the captive youth. In the meantime Bacchus, for it was he, awaking from his slumber, begged the sailors

leap overboard, they were suddenly changed into dolphins. The captain was spared, and landed with Bacchus on the shores of

Chios. Ques. What is the origin of the history of Bacchus? Ans. He was probably some prince who taught the people to til

ices offered to the Goddess — Plants held Sacred to her. Ques. Who was Juno? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Op

Goddess — Plants held Sacred to her. Ques. Who was Juno? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops, and was both sist

Ques. Who was Juno? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops, and was both sister and wife of Jupiter. Ques. How is sh

lds a sceptre in her hand, and is crowned with roses and lilies. Iris was the messenger of Juno, as Mercury was of Jupiter.

ned with roses and lilies. Iris was the messenger of Juno, as Mercury was of Jupiter. Ques. How is Iris represented? Ans.

on a rainbow. Ques. How did Iris differ from Mercury? Ans. Mercury was often employed in messages of peace; but Iris was

cury? Ans. Mercury was often employed in messages of peace; but Iris was frequently sent to promote strife and dissension.

ion. Ques. What children had Juno? Ans. Vulcan, Mars and Hebe. Hebe was called the goddess of youth, on account of her ex

her his cup-bearer. She offended him by an unlucky fall, and Ganymede was appointed in her place. Ques. What were Juno’s f

was appointed in her place. Ques. What were Juno’s faults? Ans. She was very jealous, and took the most cruel revenge on

ter loved. She transformed Callisto and her son Arcas into bears, and was extremely displeased when Jupiter placed them amo

erve, when the shades of night should darken the world, how her rival was exalted. The god of Ocean was moved, and promised

should darken the world, how her rival was exalted. The god of Ocean was moved, and promised Juno that he would never rece

ending to these heroes the enmity she bore their mortal mothers. Juno was chiefly honored at Argos, Samos and Platæa. The v

a. The victims offered to her were kine, ewe lambs, and sows. The cow was consecrated to her, and at Argos the priestess of

were, the willow, pomegranate, the dittany and the lily. The peacock was chosen as the bird of Juno, because it was suppos

and the lily. The peacock was chosen as the bird of Juno, because it was supposed by its cry to indicate a change of weath

Arachne — The Bird of Minerva — Story of Medusa’s Head. Ques. Who was Minerva? Ans. She was the goddess of wisdom and

Minerva — Story of Medusa’s Head. Ques. Who was Minerva? Ans. She was the goddess of wisdom and of war. She had no moth

. The cock and the owl are also represented on the shield. Ques. Why was Minerva said to have sprung full armed from the h

uilt a new city, Neptune and Minerva contended about its name; and it was resolved that whichever of the two deities should

d; but Minerva caused an olive to spring out of the earth. The latter was judged the more useful gift; and Minerva named th

Athena [Athe′na] or Athens, after her own name in Greek. Ques. What was the Palladium? Ans. When the Trojans were buildi

Troy, a statue of the goddess fell from heaven into the castle, which was still unroofed. The oracle of Apollo declared tha

the city through the common sewers, and brought away the image. Troy was soon afterwards taken and destroyed. Minerva was

away the image. Troy was soon afterwards taken and destroyed. Minerva was a virgin, and was the patroness of modest and vir

oy was soon afterwards taken and destroyed. Minerva was a virgin, and was the patroness of modest and virtuous women. Ques

ow much she prized her reputation for skill in embroidery. Ques. Who was Arachne? Ans. She was a maiden of Lydia, who had

reputation for skill in embroidery. Ques. Who was Arachne? Ans. She was a maiden of Lydia, who had the presumption to cha

em that Arachne’s performance surpassed hers: for Minerva, seeing it, was fired with envy, and struck the unhappy maiden on

rmitted her to live only that she might weave unceasingly. Ques. Why was the owl chosen as the bird of Minerva? Ans. Beca

es. Ques. What is the story of Medusa’s [Medu′sa] head? Ans. Medusa was one of three sisters, the daughters of Phorcus. T

were called Gorgons, and were all immortal, except Medusa. The latter was at one period distinguished for her personal beau

of men and animals changed into stone by the sight of the monster, he was obliged to use great precaution to avoid the same

her reflection in his polished shield, and when he perceived that she was asleep, Minerva guiding his sword, he struck off

e infested that region. From the blood of Medusa, also, when her head was cut off, sprang the famous winged horse called Pe

f Adonis — Origin of the Red Rose — Names of the Graces. Ques. Who was Venus? Ans. She was the goddess of love and beau

the Red Rose — Names of the Graces. Ques. Who was Venus? Ans. She was the goddess of love and beauty. She sprang from t

her Aphrodite [Aphrodi′te], from Aphros, meaning foam. As soon as she was born, she was placed like a pearl in a shell inst

[Aphrodi′te], from Aphros, meaning foam. As soon as she was born, she was placed like a pearl in a shell instead of a cradl

us (the west wind) wafted her to the shores of Cyprus. Ques. By whom was she educated? Ans. She was educated and adorned

r to the shores of Cyprus. Ques. By whom was she educated? Ans. She was educated and adorned by the Horæ or Hours, who ca

her on silken wings. Venus is always crowned with roses. Ques. What was there remarkable in the Cestus of Venus? Ans. It

he companions of Venus? Ans. The Graces were her attendants, and she was generally accompanied by her son Cupid, who was t

r attendants, and she was generally accompanied by her son Cupid, who was the god of love. Ques. How is Cupid represented?

ivals of Venus? Ans. They were various, and accompanied by much that was disgraceful and immoral. The swan, the dove, and

ltars but birds were sometimes offered. Ques. What remarkable temple was raised to Venus in Rome? Ans. There was a temple

Ques. What remarkable temple was raised to Venus in Rome? Ans. There was a temple dedicated to Venus Calva, or the Bald; b

ngines with the long hair of the Roman women. Ques. On what occasion was the prize of beauty adjudged to Venus? Ans. All

etis, Discordia, or Discord being the only one excluded. This goddess was determined to revenge the slight; she entered sec

when all were assembled, and threw among them a golden apple on which was written: “For the fairest.” A violent quarrel imm

l. Juno, Minerva, and Venus disputed so eagerly, that Jupiter himself was not able to bring them to an agreement. He resolv

esolved, therefore, to refer the matter to the decision of Paris, who was then feeding his sheep on Mount Ida. This prince

on of Paris, who was then feeding his sheep on Mount Ida. This prince was the son of Priam, king of Troy. An oracle had for

Priam, king of Troy. An oracle had foretold before his birth that he was destined to cause the destruction of his native c

that he was destined to cause the destruction of his native city. He was , therefore, exposed on Mount Ida, where he was fo

of his native city. He was, therefore, exposed on Mount Ida, where he was found and cared for by some shepherds. After he h

e most difficult disputes; hence the difference between the goddesses was referred to his decision. When they appeared befo

tiful woman in the world. Paris then pronounced Venus the fairest. He was soon after acknowledged by his father, King Priam

uction of Troy; and the prediction of the oracle with regard to Paris was accomplished. Ques. What was the story of Hippom

tion of the oracle with regard to Paris was accomplished. Ques. What was the story of Hippomenes [Hippo′menes] and Atalant

as the story of Hippomenes [Hippo′menes] and Atalanta? Ans. Atalanta was the daughter of King Cœneus, and was equally reno

es] and Atalanta? Ans. Atalanta was the daughter of King Cœneus, and was equally renowned for her beauty and her swiftness

, and directed him as to their use. When Hippomenes saw that Atalanta was going to outstrip him in the race, he threw down

h such success that he reached the goal and won his bride. Hippomenes was ungrateful to Venus, who revenged herself by chan

im into a lion, and the beautiful Atalanta into a lioness. Ques. Who was Adonis? Ans. He was a beautiful youth, the son o

he beautiful Atalanta into a lioness. Ques. Who was Adonis? Ans. He was a beautiful youth, the son of Cinyras [Cin′yras],

a beautiful youth, the son of Cinyras [Cin′yras], king of Cyprus, and was beloved by Venus. He was killed by a wild boar, w

n of Cinyras [Cin′yras], king of Cyprus, and was beloved by Venus. He was killed by a wild boar, while hunting with that go

er anemone to spring from his blood. According to the poets, the rose was formerly white. When Venus was hastening to the a

lood. According to the poets, the rose was formerly white. When Venus was hastening to the assistance of Adonis, her foot w

white. When Venus was hastening to the assistance of Adonis, her foot was wounded by a thorn, and some drops of blood fell

on of Night — How represented by Painters and Sculptors. Ques. Who was Latona? Ans. She was the daughter of Phœbe and C

esented by Painters and Sculptors. Ques. Who was Latona? Ans. She was the daughter of Phœbe and Cœus the Titan. When sh

ona? Ans. She was the daughter of Phœbe and Cœus the Titan. When she was driven from heaven by the jealousy of Juno, she f

o her rival, but the island of Delos formerly floated in the sea, and was at that time hidden under the waters. Neptune, pi

d, exhausted by heat and fatigue, on the borders of a clear pool. She was about to quench her thirst in the cool waters, wh

mud, defiled the waters so that it became unfit to drink. The goddess was so much incensed, that she changed the cruel rust

ss. The Greeks personified Night, under the name of Latona; hence she was said to have been the first wife of Jupiter, the

he same allegory, with a little variation, as, according to them, she was grandmother and nurse of Horus and Bubastis [Bu′b

honus — Memnon — His Death and Obsequies — Vocal Statue. Ques. Who was Aurora? Ans. She was the goddess of the morning

eath and Obsequies — Vocal Statue. Ques. Who was Aurora? Ans. She was the goddess of the morning and sister of the sun

Cephalus [Ceph′alus] and Procris. Ans. Cephalus, a beautiful youth, was beloved by Aurora, who carried him with her to he

on, but when she discovered her husband in the supposed stranger, she was so indignant at his suspicion that she fled from

picion that she fled from him and joined the attendants of Diana. She was afterwards reconciled to Cephalus, and gave him t

wo presents which she had received from Diana. These were, a dog that was always sure of its prey, and an arrow which never

its aim, and returned immediately to the hand of the owner. Cephalus was extremely fond of hunting, and when fatigued, he

d invited the presence of “Aura,” or the refreshing breeze. This word was mistaken for the name of a nymph by some persons

d with the blood of his beloved wife. He hastened to the spot, but it was too late, and Procris expired in his arms, acknow

he had fallen a victim to her own groundless jealousy. Ques. To whom was Aurora married? Ans. She chose for her husband T

itho′nus], the son of Laomedon [Laom′edon], king of Troy. This prince was endowed with wonderful beauty; but when Aurora be

en Tithonus could no longer move his aged limbs, and his feeble voice was scarcely heard, the goddess was moved with compas

his aged limbs, and his feeble voice was scarcely heard, the goddess was moved with compassion, and changed him into a gra

moved with compassion, and changed him into a grasshopper. Ques. Who was Memnon? Ans. He was king of the Ethiopians, and

, and changed him into a grasshopper. Ques. Who was Memnon? Ans. He was king of the Ethiopians, and son of Tithonus and A

was king of the Ethiopians, and son of Tithonus and Aurora. When Troy was besieged, Memnon came with an army to aid the kin

ell into the flames and were consumed. According to the poets, Aurora was never consoled for the loss of her son; she mourn

ed himself in Persia against Alexander the Great. The Memnon of fable was in all probability an Egyptian, and not an Ethiop

and Dama. The statue of Memnon is the more northerly of the two, and was formerly celebrated for its vocal powers. It is c

ttered a sound like the sudden breaking of a harp-string. By some, it was compared to a blow struck on hollow brass. Ques.

chinery that might be required to produce the mysterious sounds. Such was the supposition of the Persian king Cambyses, who

concealed from observation. Mr.  Wilkinson tried the experiment, and was convinced that he had discovered the secret of th

rigin — Temple of Janus — Quirinus at Rome. Saturn. Ques. Who was Saturn? Ans. He was the son of Cœlum and Terra.

us — Quirinus at Rome. Saturn. Ques. Who was Saturn? Ans. He was the son of Cœlum and Terra. He was married to Ops

Ques. Who was Saturn? Ans. He was the son of Cœlum and Terra. He was married to Ops, or Rhea, and was the father of Ju

e was the son of Cœlum and Terra. He was married to Ops, or Rhea, and was the father of Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto. As we h

hat it brings forth. Ques. How did Saturn lose his kingdom? Ans. He was deposed by Jupiter, and was obliged to take refug

How did Saturn lose his kingdom? Ans. He was deposed by Jupiter, and was obliged to take refuge in Italy, where he taught

aly, made Saturn partner of his kingdom, and that part of the country was called Latium, from a Latin word which meant to h

country was called Latium, from a Latin word which meant to hide; it was sometimes also called Saturnia. Saturn’s governme

t to hide; it was sometimes also called Saturnia. Saturn’s government was so wise and beneficial that his reign was called

turnia. Saturn’s government was so wise and beneficial that his reign was called the Golden Age. The poets tell us that all

poets tell us that all men then lived on a perfect equality, property was held in common, and the earth brought forth its f

ithout labor. Ques. What sacrifices were offered to Saturn? Ans. He was worshipped with human sacrifices, which seems str

d with human sacrifices, which seems strange when we consider that he was so mild a king. The planet Saturn was supposed by

trange when we consider that he was so mild a king. The planet Saturn was supposed by the ancients to exercise a malignant

n early times the festival lasted one day, but after Julius Cæsar, it was prolonged to three, four, or five days. Ques. Ho

, schools gave holidays, and friends sent presents to one another. It was unlawful to proclaim war or execute criminals dur

y some persons to have been the same as Noah. Janus. Ques. Who was Janus? Ans. He was an ancient Italian deity, of

ve been the same as Noah. Janus. Ques. Who was Janus? Ans. He was an ancient Italian deity, of whose origin very co

lian deity, of whose origin very contradictory accounts are given. He was supposed to have reigned in Italy in the time of

f Saturn, and to have associated that god with him in the kingdom. He was generally represented with two faces, and was cal

him in the kingdom. He was generally represented with two faces, and was called hence, Janus Bifrons. He had many temples

on Mount Etna — Cacus — Cæculus — Other Works of Vulcan. Ques. Who was Vulcan? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno,

— Cæculus — Other Works of Vulcan. Ques. Who was Vulcan? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno, but was cast down fr

Ques. Who was Vulcan? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno, but was cast down from heaven on account of his deformed

ke his leg in the fall, and remained lame ever afterwards. Ques. How was Vulcan represented? Ans. As a smith standing by

. As a smith standing by an anvil with tools in his hand. Ques. What was his occupation? Ans. He had a blacksmith shop in

ctured Jupiter’s thunderbolts, and the arms of the other gods. Vulcan was the god of fire, and the patron of blacksmiths an

of Ariadne, and the brazen palace of the sun. The shield of Achilles was enamelled with metals of various colors, and embo

olors, and embossed with beautiful historical designs. Ques. To whom was Vulcan married? Ans. Vulcan was married to Venus

l historical designs. Ques. To whom was Vulcan married? Ans. Vulcan was married to Venus, but that goddess behaved treach

ere the offspring of Neptune and Amphitrite [Amphitri′te]. Ques. How was Vulcan worshipped? Ans. The Romans celebrated fe

burned to death. The Athenians also kept feasts of Vulcan, and there was in Sicily, upon Mount Etna, a famous temple dedic

icily, upon Mount Etna, a famous temple dedicated to him. Ques. What was peculiar about this temple? Ans. The approach to

Ques. What was peculiar about this temple? Ans. The approach to it was guarded by dogs, whose scent was so keen that the

his temple? Ans. The approach to it was guarded by dogs, whose scent was so keen that they could discover whether the pers

rom whom the noble Roman family of the Cæcilii derived their name. He was the founder of the city of Præneste. One fable is

an infant, lying unhurt in a glowing fire, from which circumstance he was supposed to be the son of Vulcan. The shepherd, P

e son of Vulcan. The shepherd, Polyphemus, resembled the Cyclops, and was , like them, a son of Neptune. The monster devoure

nd of their voices, hurled a rock into the sea, by which their vessel was almost swamped. Warned by this danger, they rowed

er Divinities — His Banishment from Olympus. Æolus. Ques. Who was Æolus [Æ′olus]? Ans. He was the god of the winds

t from Olympus. Æolus. Ques. Who was Æolus [Æ′olus]? Ans. He was the god of the winds; he could imprison them in a

n a dark cave, or, by setting them free, create tempests. Ques. What was the origin of this fable? Ans. It is believed th

s. What was the origin of this fable? Ans. It is believed that Æolus was a skillful astronomer who dwelt in a volcanic isl

lcanic island. By noticing the clouds of smoke, and how they rose, he was enabled to foretell storms a long time before the

high winds and tempests whenever he pleased. Momus. Ques. Who was Momus? Ans. He was the son of Night and Sleep; t

ests whenever he pleased. Momus. Ques. Who was Momus? Ans. He was the son of Night and Sleep; the name Momus signif

of Night and Sleep; the name Momus signifies a jester. His occupation was to criticise the other gods, and censure their ac

skill; Neptune made a bull, Minerva a house, and Vulcan a man. Momus was called upon to decide their merits, but he blamed

to decide their merits, but he blamed them all. He said that Neptune was imprudent in not placing the bull’s horns in his

onger and surer blow. He found fault with Minerva’s house, because it was immovable and could not be carried away if it wer

rried away if it were placed among bad neighbors. He said that Vulcan was the worst of all, because he did not put a window

f Venus, he complained of the noise made by her golden sandals. Momus was at length driven from Olympus. Chapter XV. Te

l Virgins — Their Obligations and Privileges — Anecdote. Ques. Who was Vesta? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and O

igations and Privileges — Anecdote. Ques. Who was Vesta? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops or Rhea, and was,

was Vesta? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops or Rhea, and was , therefore, the sister of Jupiter. She was consid

aturn and Ops or Rhea, and was, therefore, the sister of Jupiter. She was considered the guardian of homes and firesides, a

Jupiter. She was considered the guardian of homes and firesides, and was a household divinity. Statues of Vesta were place

um, while various domestic animals are grouped about her. Ques. What was the character of this goddess? Ans. She was este

d about her. Ques. What was the character of this goddess? Ans. She was esteemed very holy, and was the patroness of hous

the character of this goddess? Ans. She was esteemed very holy, and was the patroness of household virtues. When Jupiter

ays a virgin, and receive the first oblations in all sacrifices. Fire was the emblem of this goddess, and in her temple, at

the emblem of this goddess, and in her temple, at Rome, a sacred fire was suspended in the air, and watched by the Vestal V

this fire chanced to be extinguished, all public and private business was suspended until the accident had been expiated.

penalties for neglect of their duties were severe. If the sacred fire was extinguished through their negligence, they were

and if any Virgin infringed the rule which forbade her to marry, she was buried alive; being shut up in a vault undergroun

mp, and a little bread, wine, water and oil. The sacred fire of Vesta was watched by these priestesses for nearly eleven ce

ven the consuls and magistrates gave them precedence; their testimony was taken in trials without any form of oath, and if

oath, and if they happened to meet a criminal going to execution, he was immediately pardoned. Public documents of great i

ius Audax, a consul who had rendered himself obnoxious to the people, was attacked in the midst of a triumphal procession b

bunes, who endeavored to pull him from his chariot. His daughter, who was a Vestal Virgin, ascended the triumphal car, and

urned to their families. The law then permitted them to marry, but it was considered discreditable to do so. Chapter XVI

and Corybantes — Bona Dea — Story of the Vestal Claudia. Ques. Who was Cybele? Ans. This goddess, sometimes called by t

, not of cities only, but of all things which the earth contains. She was the daughter of Cœlum, and the wife of Saturn. Q

ns. She was the daughter of Cœlum, and the wife of Saturn. Ques. How was Cybele represented? Ans. Generally as riding in

ified and matronly air which distinguishes Juno and Ceres. Ques. How was she worshipped? Ans. Sacrifices were first offer

ntains; that on Mount Dindymus near Pessinus [Pessi′nus], in Galatia, was particularly celebrated. Her statue in this templ

], in Galatia, was particularly celebrated. Her statue in this temple was simply a large aerolite which had fallen in the v

ple was simply a large aerolite which had fallen in the vicinity, and was regarded by the people as the heaven-sent image o

ge to be removed to Rome. The monarch consented, and the sacred stone was carried in triumph to the Italian capital. There

sacred stone was carried in triumph to the Italian capital. There it was placed in a stately temple built for the purpose,

emple built for the purpose, and a solemn festival, called Megalesia, was celebrated annually, in honor of Cybele. During t

of the image of Cybele in Rome. The ship which bore the sacred stone was stranded on a shoal in the Tiber. Claudia, a Vest

ne was stranded on a shoal in the Tiber. Claudia, a Vestal Virgin who was suspected of having violated her vow, attached he

girdle to the prow, and drew the ship safely into port. Her innocence was established by this prodigy. Chapter XVII. Cer

Ceres — Feasts called Ambarvalia — Described by Virgil. Ques. Who was Ceres? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and O

d Ambarvalia — Described by Virgil. Ques. Who was Ceres? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops, and was worshippe

ues. Who was Ceres? Ans. She was the daughter of Saturn and Ops, and was worshipped as the goddess of fruits and corn. It

corn; she holds a lighted torch, because when her daughter Proserpine was stolen by Pluto, Ceres kindled a torch from the f

her search throughout the world. She holds a poppy, because when she was so grieved that she could neither rest nor sleep,

to do so by violence. Proserpine, the daughter of Jupiter and Ceres, was gathering daffodils with her companions in the pl

f pomegranate. The hopes of Ceres were thus destroyed, but Proserpine was so indignant at the treachery of Ascalaphus, that

teries? Ans. We cannot tell with any certainty. The penalty of death was decreed against any one who should betray the sec

re made, however, which seem to prove that the person to be initiated was first introduced into a dark subterranean cave, w

nitiated was first introduced into a dark subterranean cave, where he was terrified with the most fearful sights and sounds

earful sights and sounds. After this, if his courage did not fail, he was suddenly introduced into a lovely garden, and the

. Athenians only; but Hercules, to whom no one dared refuse anything, was initiated, and after him, other distinguished for

ld of Ceres. Ques. Relate the story of Triptolemus. Ans. When Ceres was seeking Proserpine by sea and land, she was kindl

tolemus. Ans. When Ceres was seeking Proserpine by sea and land, she was kindly entertained by Celeus, king of Eleusis, in

rvest, preparatory to reaping. The animal to be offered in sacrifice, was led around the fields, the husbandmen and country

e — Nemesis — Her Office — Temple of Nemesis at Rhamnus. Ques. Who was Themis? Ans. She instructed both gods and men, a

Ques. Who was Themis? Ans. She instructed both gods and men, and was generally considered the goddess of law and justi

gin is uncertain; but she is said to have been a Titaness. Ques. Who was Astræa [Astræ′a]? Ans. She was also goddess of j

d to have been a Titaness. Ques. Who was Astræa [Astræ′a]? Ans. She was also goddess of justice; according to some, she w

træ′a]? Ans. She was also goddess of justice; according to some, she was the daughter of Jupiter and Themis. When the Tita

descended to earth, and mingled with the human race. This intercourse was uninterrupted during the Golden Age; in the Silve

he mountains, and descended only amid the shades of evening, when she was unseen by men. When the Brazen Age commenced, she

e], a maiden who hung herself in despair, at the death of her father, was changed into the constellation Virgo. Ques. Who

h of her father, was changed into the constellation Virgo. Ques. Who was Nemesis [Nem′esis]? Ans. She was the daughter of

the constellation Virgo. Ques. Who was Nemesis [Nem′esis]? Ans. She was the daughter of Night, and the goddess of just ve

She was the daughter of Night, and the goddess of just vengeance. It was her office to follow and punish guilty men. She h

hat do you say of the temple of Nemesis at Rhamnus? Ans. This temple was but a short distance from the plain of Marathon.

idias, afterwards carved from it a beautiful statue of Nemesis, which was placed in the temple of Rhamnus. A fragment was f

tue of Nemesis, which was placed in the temple of Rhamnus. A fragment was found in the ruins of this edifice, which is supp

terature, art or science. Their names were: Calliope [Calli′ope], who was the Muse of epic poetry, she holds in her hand a

over history. She holds a half opened scroll. Melpomene [Melpo′mene] was the Muse of tragedy. She leans on a club, and hol

edy. She leans on a club, and holds a tragic mask. Euterpe [Euter′pe] was the patroness of music. She holds two flutes. Era

s were finished, they were found to be so skillfully wrought, that it was impossible to make a choice. They were all placed

the indignant goddesses. Thamyris [Tham′yris], a musician of Thrace, was struck blind for the same offence. Chapter XX.

tyrs and Fauns — Terminus — Vertumnus — Pales. Pan. Ques. Who was Pan? Ans. He was a woodland deity, and was honor

erminus — Vertumnus — Pales. Pan. Ques. Who was Pan? Ans. He was a woodland deity, and was honored by the Romans a

s. Pan. Ques. Who was Pan? Ans. He was a woodland deity, and was honored by the Romans as the god of shepherds and

atins sometimes called him Incubus or the “Nightmare,” and at Rome he was worshipped as Lupercus, or Lynceus. His origin is

pipe of uneven reeds. The music which he made on this rude instrument was so sweet as to cheer the gods. Ques. What famous

lage of persons, particularly an army, is called a panic. Ques. What was the origin of Pan’s reeds? Ans. A beautiful nymp

was the origin of Pan’s reeds? Ans. A beautiful nymph, named Syrinx, was so persecuted by this god, that she prayed the wa

hange her into reeds, which they did. Pan saw the transformation, and was much grieved. He took some of the reeds away for

nd were, like Pan, half man and half goat. Terminus. Ques. Who was Terminus? Ans. He was the god of boundaries. His

man and half goat. Terminus. Ques. Who was Terminus? Ans. He was the god of boundaries. His statue was only a squa

ues. Who was Terminus? Ans. He was the god of boundaries. His statue was only a square stone, or a painted log of wood. It

ned with garlands on festivals, offerings were laid upon them, and it was death for any one to remove one. When Constantine

he god of boundaries refused to give way. Vertumnus. Ques. Who was this deity? Ans. He is generally reckoned as one

y? Ans. He is generally reckoned as one of the rural divinities, and was worshipped as such by the ancient Sabines. The na

s. The name comes from the Latin word verto, (to turn or change,) and was bestowed upon him in allusion to his power of tak

f taking any form he pleased. Vertumnus presided over the seasons; he was the husband of Pomona. Statues of this god were e

were erected in every town of Italy. His festival called Vertumnalia, was kept in October. Chapter XXI. Goddesses of th

Story of Echo — Transformation of Narcissus. Diana. Ques. Who was Diana? Ans. She was the daughter of Jupiter and

formation of Narcissus. Diana. Ques. Who was Diana? Ans. She was the daughter of Jupiter and Latona, and the twin-

the twin-sister of Apollo. This goddess had three names. On earth she was called Diana, and was honored as the goddess of w

llo. This goddess had three names. On earth she was called Diana, and was honored as the goddess of woods and hunting; in h

a, and was honored as the goddess of woods and hunting; in heaven she was called Luna, and was identified with the moon, as

the goddess of woods and hunting; in heaven she was called Luna, and was identified with the moon, as her brother Apollo w

called Luna, and was identified with the moon, as her brother Apollo was with the sun. In hell, she was called Hecate [Hec

d with the moon, as her brother Apollo was with the sun. In hell, she was called Hecate [Hec′ate], and as spirits were supp

ate [Hec′ate], and as spirits were supposed to be subject to her, she was invoked under the latter name in all magical inca

represented as seated in a silver chariot drawn by hounds. Ques. Who was Chione [Chi′one]? Ans. She was a nymph beloved b

r chariot drawn by hounds. Ques. Who was Chione [Chi′one]? Ans. She was a nymph beloved by Apollo. She spoke scornfully o

e with an arrow. Ques. Relate the story of Niobe [Ni′obe]. Ans. She was the daughter of Tantalus [Tan′talus], and the wif

[Tan′talus], and the wife of Amphion [Amphi′on], king of Thebes. She was enriched with all the gifts of nature and fortune

neath her mantle, the youngest and last of her children. Ques. Where was the most celebrated temple of Diana? Ans. At Eph

e most celebrated temple of Diana? Ans. At Ephesus in Asia Minor; it was so beautiful that it was counted among the seven

of Diana? Ans. At Ephesus in Asia Minor; it was so beautiful that it was counted among the seven wonders of the world. Two

ible number of workmen were employed. The entire length of the temple was 425 feet, and the breadth 220; the whole was supp

ire length of the temple was 425 feet, and the breadth 220; the whole was supported by 127 superb columns, each the gift of

27 superb columns, each the gift of a king. The statue of the goddess was of ebony, and the most skillful painters and scul

ployed in the decorations of the edifice. A man named Erostratus, who was anxious to make himself famous, by whatever means

g. This event took place on the very day on which Alexander the Great was born. The temple was but partially destroyed, and

ace on the very day on which Alexander the Great was born. The temple was but partially destroyed, and was soon afterwards

ander the Great was born. The temple was but partially destroyed, and was soon afterwards restored to its former splendor.

ut two hours, crying, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” This temple was despoiled by Nero, who removed many costly offeri

ngs and images, together with a large quantity of silver and gold. It was afterwards plundered by the Goths in the reign of

ecause they were attached, each to some particular oak. The Hamadryad was born with the tree, flourished and died with it.

an forests, as also the superstition about water spirits. Ques. What was the story of Arethusa? Ans. This nymph was the d

ater spirits. Ques. What was the story of Arethusa? Ans. This nymph was the daughter of Oceanus, and an attendant of Dian

his nymph was the daughter of Oceanus, and an attendant of Diana. She was admired by the god of the river Alpheus [Alphe′us

ng steps. In this extremity, Arethusa prayed to Diana for relief, and was immediately dissolved into a fountain. Alpheus re

oof of this fable, and of the Grecian origin of this famous fount, it was asserted that a cup which fell into the river Alp

with the blood of the victims slain at the Olympic games. Ques. Who was Echo? Ans. Echo was a nymph, the daughter of Air

e victims slain at the Olympic games. Ques. Who was Echo? Ans. Echo was a nymph, the daughter of Air and Tellus; she was

was Echo? Ans. Echo was a nymph, the daughter of Air and Tellus; she was one of Juno’s attendants, but offended that godde

uno’s attendants, but offended that goddess by her talkativeness. She was so far deprived of speech, that she could only re

places, repeating always the last words that are spoken. Ques. What was the fate of Narcissus? Ans. One legend is that h

he saw his image reflected in a fountain, and, not perceiving that it was but his own shadow, gazed at it, lost in admirati

it was but his own shadow, gazed at it, lost in admiration, until he was changed into the flower that bears his name. Acco

had a twin-sister who resembled him closely in form and feature, and was his constant companion. This sister died young, a

na, the goddess of orchards, and Flora, the goddess of flowers. Pales was the goddess of shepherds and pastures. The Romans

— Scylla and Charybdis — Melicertes — Thetis — Glaucus. Ques. Who was Neptune? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops,

s — Melicertes — Thetis — Glaucus. Ques. Who was Neptune? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops, and was worshipped as

Ques. Who was Neptune? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops, and was worshipped as the god of the sea, and the father

ucted ships safely to port, and presided over horse-races. Ques. Why was he supposed to preside over horses? Ans. In memo

produced a horse by striking on the ground with his trident. Neptune was obliged by Jupiter to aid Apollo in building the

ed by Jupiter to aid Apollo in building the walls of Troy. Ques. How was Neptune worshipped? Ans. Neptune had an altar in

ton, and Phorcus or Proteus. Ques. What is told of Phorcus? Ans. He was vanquished by Atlas, and drowned in the sea; afte

ned in the sea; after which the people worshipped him as a god. There was another Phorcus who had three daughters, concerni

her forehead. They were the guardians of the Gorgons, of whom Medusa was one. The hero Perseus, when about to attack Medus

visited them, and, watching his opportunity, while one of the sisters was handing the eye to the other, he snatched it from

snatched it from her, and left all three in darkness. Ques. For what was Proteus remarkable? Ans. For his power of transf

sforming himself instantaneously into any shape he wished. Ques. Who was Triton? Ans. He was the son of Neptune and Amphi

antaneously into any shape he wished. Ques. Who was Triton? Ans. He was the son of Neptune and Amphitrite, and was his fa

. Who was Triton? Ans. He was the son of Neptune and Amphitrite, and was his father’s companion and trumpeter. The upper h

was his father’s companion and trumpeter. The upper half of his body was like that of a man, but below the waist he resemb

like that of a man, but below the waist he resembled a fish; his tail was cleft and crooked, and his hair resembled wild pa

y had lulled them into a trance, drowned them in the sea. Ques. What was there remarkable in the songs of the Sirens? Ans

ntions only two; Ulysses [Ulys′ses] and Orpheus [Or′pheus]. The first was warned against the danger by the enchantress Circ

long into the sea, where they were transformed into rocks. Ques. Who was Circe? Ans. She was a skillful enchantress. Havi

ere they were transformed into rocks. Ques. Who was Circe? Ans. She was a skillful enchantress. Having poisoned her husba

antress. Having poisoned her husband, the king of the Sarmatians, she was obliged to fly into Italy, where she fixed her dw

ure, they become soon degraded to the level of the beasts. Ques. Who was Scylla? Ans. The fable relates that she was the

f the beasts. Ques. Who was Scylla? Ans. The fable relates that she was the daughter of Phorcus, and that she was transfo

The fable relates that she was the daughter of Phorcus, and that she was transformed by the jealousy of Circe, into a frig

ransformed by the jealousy of Circe, into a frightful monster. Scylla was so much grieved by this transformation, that she

by this transformation, that she cast herself into the sea, where she was changed into a rock, made famous by the many ship

about which the poets relate a similar fable. They say that Charybdis was a very ravenous woman, who stole Hercules’s oxen.

he ancients placed Scylla and Charybdis in the straits of Messina. It was considered a great feat to steer successfully bet

onsidered a great feat to steer successfully between them. Ques. Who was Melicertes? Ans. He was the son of Athamas, king

steer successfully between them. Ques. Who was Melicertes? Ans. He was the son of Athamas, king of Thebes, and of Ino, t

no became a sea-goddess under the name of Leucothea, while Melicertes was worshipped as Palæmon. He was supposed to have po

the name of Leucothea, while Melicertes was worshipped as Palæmon. He was supposed to have power in saving vessels from shi

. He was supposed to have power in saving vessels from shipwreck, and was , therefore, invoked by mariners. The Romans calle

ortunus, and honored him as the god of shores and harbors. Ques. Who was Thetis? Ans. She was a sea-goddess, the daughter

im as the god of shores and harbors. Ques. Who was Thetis? Ans. She was a sea-goddess, the daughter of Nereus and Doris,

ss, the daughter of Nereus and Doris, and sister of the Nereides. She was endowed with such beauty that Jupiter himself sou

than his father. Jupiter thereupon desisted from his suit, and Thetis was betrothed to Peleus, king of Thessaly. Their marr

and Thetis was betrothed to Peleus, king of Thessaly. Their marriage was celebrated with much pomp, all the deities of Oly

— The Belides — Salmoneus — Elysium. Pluto — Hades. Ques. Who was Pluto? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops, an

oneus — Elysium. Pluto — Hades. Ques. Who was Pluto? Ans. He was the son of Saturn and Ops, and the brother of Jup

fernal Jupiter. Ques. Was Pluto the same as Plutus? Ans. No; Plutus was the god of riches, and was supposed to be the son

Pluto the same as Plutus? Ans. No; Plutus was the god of riches, and was supposed to be the son of Jason and Ceres. He is

ich watch their treasures with great fear and anxiety. Ques. To whom was Pluto married? Ans. As we have learned before, P

es. To whom was Pluto married? Ans. As we have learned before, Pluto was married to Proserpine, daughter of Ceres. Hell

was married to Proserpine, daughter of Ceres. Hell. Ques. How was Hell described? Ans. The entrance to the inferna

s. How was Hell described? Ans. The entrance to the infernal regions was by a wide, dark cave, through which the departed

y next came to a gloomy grove, and a black lake, called Avernus; this was overhung with such poisonous vapors that no birds

isonous vapors that no birds could fly over it. The ferryman, Charon, was always waiting on the shore to carry the dead to

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

the most remarkable. When any of the gods swore by the Styx, the oath was sacred; if any deity was guilty of breaking such

any of the gods swore by the Styx, the oath was sacred; if any deity was guilty of breaking such an oath, he was deprived

oath was sacred; if any deity was guilty of breaking such an oath, he was deprived of nectar, and excluded from the table o

d excluded from the table of the gods for a year and nine days. Lethe was also a river of Hell; the name means oblivion; it

’s palace? Ans. Cerberus [Cer′berus]; a three-headed dog, whose body was clothed with snakes instead of hair. Fates — F

a]. They are called by the poets the Daughters of Night; their office was to torment the wicked during life and after death

rinces, who governed so justly during life, that the fate of the dead was entrusted to them. Ques. What offices were assig

siatics, Æacus the Europeans; and when a very difficult case arose it was referred to Minos. Ques. Who were the most famou

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

giants whom Jupiter conquered. Typhon was the most enormous; when he was overthrown, Jupiter was obliged to lay the whole

quered. Typhon was the most enormous; when he was overthrown, Jupiter was obliged to lay the whole Island of Sicily upon hi

to lay the whole Island of Sicily upon him to keep him down. Briareus was another giant, remarkable for having fifty heads

he tries to move he causes terrible eruptions of the volcano. Tityus was still more cruelly punished. He was chained to th

eruptions of the volcano. Tityus was still more cruelly punished. He was chained to the ground in the infernal regions, an

ished. He was chained to the ground in the infernal regions, and such was his stature, that he covered nine acres. A fright

tful vulture fed continually upon his liver, which grew as fast as it was consumed, that his punishment might be eternal.

as it was consumed, that his punishment might be eternal. Ques. Who was Ixion? Ans. He was the son of Phlegyas, or, acco

that his punishment might be eternal. Ques. Who was Ixion? Ans. He was the son of Phlegyas, or, according to some, of Ma

of Juno. For this insolence Jupiter cast him down into hell, where he was fastened to a wheel which revolved continually.

ere he was fastened to a wheel which revolved continually. Ques. Who was Sisyphus [Sis′yphus]? Ans. He was a famous robbe

h revolved continually. Ques. Who was Sisyphus [Sis′yphus]? Ans. He was a famous robber who was slain by Theseus. In hell

Ques. Who was Sisyphus [Sis′yphus]? Ans. He was a famous robber who was slain by Theseus. In hell, he was obliged to roll

]? Ans. He was a famous robber who was slain by Theseus. In hell, he was obliged to roll a huge stone up a steep mountain.

ep mountain. When it touched the top it rolled down again, so that he was tormented with unceasing toil. Ques. Who was Tan

down again, so that he was tormented with unceasing toil. Ques. Who was Tantalus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter. He inv

was tormented with unceasing toil. Ques. Who was Tantalus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter. He invited the gods to a feas

lled an immense sieve. Their labor is therefore perpetual. Ques. Who was Salmoneus [Salmo′neus]? Ans. Salmoneus was king

ore perpetual. Ques. Who was Salmoneus [Salmo′neus]? Ans. Salmoneus was king of Elis, and was cast into hell for imitatin

Who was Salmoneus [Salmo′neus]? Ans. Salmoneus was king of Elis, and was cast into hell for imitating Jupiter’s thunder.

any; the Centaurs, who were half man and half horse; also Geryon, who was king of the three Balearic Islands, now known as

Islands, now known as Ivica, Minorca and Majorca. For this reason, he was said to have three heads and three bodies, and pa

three heads and three bodies, and passed into fable as a monster. He was probably a wicked and cruel prince. There were al

es, which had the faces of women and the bodies of birds. Ques. What was the Chimæra? Ans. A fabulous monster, which vomi

of a lion, the body of a goat, and the tail of a dragon. Ques. What was intended by this fable? Ans. Poets thus describe

a volcano in Lycia, on the summit of which were lions; in the middle was pasture-land frequented by goats; and the lowest

the middle was pasture-land frequented by goats; and the lowest part was infested by serpents. Bellerophon made this mount

infested by serpents. Bellerophon made this mountain inhabitable, and was therefore said to have killed the Chimæra. At pre

nt anything which is quite imaginary is called a Chimæra. Ques. What was the Sphinx? Ans. It was a monster with the head

e imaginary is called a Chimæra. Ques. What was the Sphinx? Ans. It was a monster with the head and shoulders of a woman,

e, in their distress, went to consult the oracle of Apollo. An answer was given that no remedy could be found until some on

had proposed, and which she had learned from the Muses. The question was this: “What animal is that which goes on four fee

off and devoured one of their number. At length Hæmon, son of Creon, was destroyed by the monster, and the king made a pub

sister Jocasta, to that man who should solve the riddle. Œdipus, who was then at Thebes, came forward and answered the Sph

then at Thebes, came forward and answered the Sphinx, that the animal was Man, because when an infant he creeps on all four

normous statue of the monster, carved in solid rock. Formerly, little was visible save the head and neck, but the sand whic

gion to hold all images of men or animals in detestation. Ques. What was the Phœnix? Ans. A fabulous bird of which there

e hundred years, it built a funeral pile of odorous wood, on which it was consumed. A new Phœnix also immediately arose fro

o immediately arose from the flames. The first care of the young bird was to collect the ashes of its parent, which it carr

— Lares. Ques. What were the Penates [Pena′tes]? Ans. This name was given to a certain class of household deities, wh

sh to bury the dead within, or very near their dwellings. This custom was condemned by the laws of the Twelve Tables. Besid

es. Besides the spirit which watched over the family, each individual was supposed to have his Lar, or familiar genius, who

h. In early times, children were sacrificed to the goddess Mania, who was supposed by some to be the mother of the Lares. A

eads which had been formerly offered. The ordinary altar of the Lares was the domestic hearth; hogs, sheep and steers were

uits of the season were always laid upon the hearth. No family repast was properly begun, unless some portion of the viands

shipped the different Virtues, but the abstract idea of virtue itself was personified as a goddess. The Romans dedicated tw

through that dedicated to Virtue, the votaries were reminded that it was by walking in her paths, that true honor was to b

es were reminded that it was by walking in her paths, that true honor was to be attained. Ques. What were the emblems of T

was to be attained. Ques. What were the emblems of Truth? Ans. She was generally represented as a beautiful and modest v

as a beautiful and modest virgin, with garments as white as snow. She was the daughter of Time, or Saturn, because Time alw

th to light. Fides, or Fidelity, had a temple near the Capitol, which was said to have been founded by Numa Pompilius. The

ed hands. Ques. What were the emblems of Peace? Ans. Pax, or Peace, was represented as a matron holding ears of corn, and

rs of corn, and crowned with olives and laurel. Her particular symbol was a caduceus, a white staff anciently borne by amba

orne by ambassadors when sent to treat of peace. A magnificent temple was dedicated to this goddess in the Roman Forum. Jus

cent temple was dedicated to this goddess in the Roman Forum. Justice was worshipped by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. H

the goddess Astræa. Hope had a temple at Rome in the herb market. It was destroyed by lightning. Misericordia, or Mercy, h

yed by lightning. Misericordia, or Mercy, had an altar at Athens This was a public sanctuary for the unfortunate, and it wa

tar at Athens This was a public sanctuary for the unfortunate, and it was unlawful to take any one from it by force. This a

wo temples, much frequented by the Roman matrons. The second of these was founded under peculiar circumstances. Virginia, t

the ancients worshipped under this name, a certain unseen power which was supposed to exercise a supreme dominion over huma

e to Bona Fortuna, the other to Fors Fortuna. This capricious goddess was sometimes represented with her eyes bandaged, her

represented as an infant, in her arms. The goddess Salus, or Health, was much honored by the Romans. In ancient times, cer

apart for her worship. Her emblems were a bowl and a serpent. Liberty was honored as a divinity. Her emblem was the peculia

e a bowl and a serpent. Liberty was honored as a divinity. Her emblem was the peculiar cap with which we are familiar from

altars to certain vices, but it does not appear that their intention was to do them honor. In some instances, they strove

, they undoubtedly wished to appease the demon or malignant deity who was supposed to send this calamity. The same supersti

honors. The circumstance of a mortal taking his place among the gods, was called an Apotheosis. Ques. Who was the most fam

taking his place among the gods, was called an Apotheosis. Ques. Who was the most famous of the Demigods? Ans. Hercules,

n. For this purpose she sent two monstrous serpents to kill him as he was sleeping in his cradle. The infant hero awoke, an

oke, and seizing the serpents in his hands, strangled them both. Juno was not discouraged, and when Hercules was grown up,

nds, strangled them both. Juno was not discouraged, and when Hercules was grown up, devised new means to destroy him. She p

ero twelve Labors, or tasks, of great danger and difficulty. Hercules was in doubt as to whether he should submit to this i

Hercules had been carefully instructed by the Centaur Chiron, and he was now equipped for his labors by the liberality of

as clothed in the skin of this animal, and leaning on the club which was his ordinary weapon. Second. He destroyed the Hy

rymanthus, in Arcadia, and brought it bound to Eurystheus. The tyrant was so frightened at the sight of the animal, that he

aught, after a chase which lasted an entire year, a famous stag which was sacred to Diana. It had golden horns and brazen f

eas], which had never been cleaned during the entire period. Hercules was required to perform this task, which he effected

onne, in France, covered with stones. The ancients said that Hercules was contending on this spot with two giants, when, hi

an insult offered to his wife, Deianira [Deiani′ra]. When the monster was dying, he gave Deianira a charmed philter, tellin

with this potion. The credulous Deianira accepted the philter, which was nothing else but the venom of the hydra which had

of the hydra which had been infused into the Centaur’s blood; and it was not long before her jealousy led her to use it as

sent for a splendid robe befitting the occasion. Deianira’s jealousy was excited against Iole by the reports of the messen

w and arrows of Hercules as a reward for this service. While the pyre was blazing, Jupiter sent a thunder-cloud, in which H

the pyre was blazing, Jupiter sent a thunder-cloud, in which Hercules was conveyed to Olympus. Here he was endowed with imm

t a thunder-cloud, in which Hercules was conveyed to Olympus. Here he was endowed with immortality, and, according to some

ere he was endowed with immortality, and, according to some accounts, was reconciled with Juno, who gave him her daughter H

of the Minotaur — Ariadne — Death of Ægeus. Jason. Ques. Who was Jason? Ans. He was the son of Æson, king of Thes

riadne — Death of Ægeus. Jason. Ques. Who was Jason? Ans. He was the son of Æson, king of Thessaly, and was celebr

s. Who was Jason? Ans. He was the son of Æson, king of Thessaly, and was celebrated on account of his expedition in search

wn as the husband of the famous sorceress Medea [Mede′a]. Ques. What was the Golden Fleece? Ans. Phryxus, son of Athamas,

, attempted to cross the sea on this ram. Helle became terrified, and was drowned in the straits which are called from her,

m to Jupiter, who placed it among the signs of the Zodiac. The fleece was hung in a grove sacred to Mars, where it was guar

f the Zodiac. The fleece was hung in a grove sacred to Mars, where it was guarded by bulls who breathed flame from their no

his aged and decrepit father to the vigor and beauty of youth. Jason was ungrateful for these benefits, and divorced Medea

might marry Creusa, the daughter of the king of Corinth. Ques. What was Medea’s revenge? Ans. She murdered, in the sight

d his palace and bride in a conflagration raised by her art. As Jason was about to rush upon the sorceress, she rose in the

in a flying chariot, and escaped to Athens. Theseus. Ques. Who was Theseus? Ans. He was the son of Ægeus [Æ′geus],

nd escaped to Athens. Theseus. Ques. Who was Theseus? Ans. He was the son of Ægeus [Æ′geus], king of Athens. The At

ur, whom Minos, the king of Crete, kept in the Labyrinth. Ques. What was the Labyrinth? Ans. It was a building with fifte

Crete, kept in the Labyrinth. Ques. What was the Labyrinth? Ans. It was a building with fifteen hundred rooms above groun

doors, and were connected by such intricate windings, that no one who was conducted a certain distance into the edifice, co

e exhibited before King Minos; and Ariadne, the daughter of the king, was so much struck by the courage and generosity of T

ecame of Ariadne? Ans. She accompanied Theseus on his flight, but he was so ungrateful as to abandon her on the island of

he island of Naxos, where she had fallen asleep on the shore. Ariadne was afterwards married to Bacchus, who gave her a cro

as the Corona Borealis, or Northern Crown. Ques. Of what negligence was Theseus guilty on his return to Athens? Ans. He

w the black sails in the distance. He believed from this that his son was dead. In his despair he cast himself into the sea

his son was dead. In his despair he cast himself into the sea, which was called Ægean [Æ′gean] from his name. Theseus, aft

rom his name. Theseus, after performing many other wonderful actions, was banished from his country, and died in obscurity.

? Ans. They were twin brothers, the sons of Jupiter and Leda. Castor was mortal like his mother, and when he died, Pollux

t Jupiter permitted him to share his immortality with his brother. It was arranged, therefore, that they should live every

the Twins, the third sign of the Zodiac. Prometheus. Ques. Who was Prometheus? Ans. He was the son of Iapetus and C

of the Zodiac. Prometheus. Ques. Who was Prometheus? Ans. He was the son of Iapetus and Clymene, one of the Oceani

ty fable is connected with this? Ans. The poets tell us that Jupiter was so much displeased at the theft, that he sent Pan

the box, upon which Pandora carried it to his brother Epimetheus. He was less cautious, and opening the casket, set free t

what he had done, he shut the box quickly, and prevented Hope, which was lying at the bottom, from escaping also. This sig

ll of man, and the hope left him amid so many misfortunes. Ques. How was Prometheus punished? Ans. Jupiter commanded Merc

m to a rock on Mount Caucasus; there an eagle fed on his liver, which was continually renewed. Prometheus had, at one time,

racian Women into Trees — Arion — Amphion. Orpheus. Ques. Who was Orpheus? Ans. He was the son of Apollo and the M

s — Arion — Amphion. Orpheus. Ques. Who was Orpheus? Ans. He was the son of Apollo and the Muse Calliope. He playe

nymph Eurydice [Eury′dice]; but on the very day of their nuptials she was stung in the foot by a venomous serpent, and died

vitals of Tityus; Cerberus fawned at the musician’s feet, Proserpine was melted to tears, and the stern king of Hell was m

an’s feet, Proserpine was melted to tears, and the stern king of Hell was moved to pity. Eurydice was permitted to return t

lted to tears, and the stern king of Hell was moved to pity. Eurydice was permitted to return to the upper world, but only

endeavoring to forget his misfortune in the charms of music. Orpheus was murdered during the orgies of Bacchus, by the Thr

s, and were surprised to hear its murmur, “Eurydice, Eurydice!” as it was carried down the stream to the Ægean Sea. Bacchus

urydice!” as it was carried down the stream to the Ægean Sea. Bacchus was indignant at the cruelty of the Thracian women, a

Thracian women, and changed them into trees. Arion. Ques. Who was Arion? Ans. He was a famous musician who resided

changed them into trees. Arion. Ques. Who was Arion? Ans. He was a famous musician who resided at the court of Per

ity, if they would but spare his life. The only favor he could obtain was the choice of a grave. If he desired to be laid o

their rude hearts. Arion attired himself in festal robes; his mantle was of purple fringed with gold, and his brow was ado

estal robes; his mantle was of purple fringed with gold, and his brow was adorned with a golden wreath. He struck his lyre

bitants of the deep had gathered around as Arion sung, and now, as he was struggling in the waves, a dolphin took him on hi

me, and suffered the punishment they had so well deserved. This event was commemorated by a statue of brass which was conse

well deserved. This event was commemorated by a statue of brass which was consecrated at Tænarus. It represented a man moun

It represented a man mounted on a dolphin. Amphion. Ques. Who was Amphion? Ans. He was the son of Antiope [Anti′op

mounted on a dolphin. Amphion. Ques. Who was Amphion? Ans. He was the son of Antiope [Anti′ope] and Jupiter. He obt

with his twin-brother Zethus. Amphion cultivated the art of music; he was instructed by Mercury, who gave him a golden lyre

e — Rescue of Andromeda — Death of Acrisius. Atlas. Ques. Who was Atlas? Ans. He was a king of Mauritania, the son

eda — Death of Acrisius. Atlas. Ques. Who was Atlas? Ans. He was a king of Mauritania, the son of the Titan Japetu

a, the son of the Titan Japetus [Jap′etus], and the nymph Clymene; he was , therefore, brother of Prometheus. He is represen

warned that he would suffer much from a son of Jupiter. When Perseus was returning from the conquest of the Gorgons, he ar

stained the heavens on his shoulders, has been explained by saying he was an astronomer, who observed the motion of the hea

eavenly bodies from the summit of a lofty mountain, to which his name was afterwards given. Ques. Who were the children of

herefore, a terrible dragon to guard the precious fruit. This monster was the offspring of Typhon, and had a hundred heads,

had a hundred heads, so that it never slept. Orion. Ques. Who was Orion [Ori′on]? Ans. His origin is doubtful; acc

[Ori′on]? Ans. His origin is doubtful; according to some writers, he was the son of Neptune and Euryale [Eury′ale]. The ac

his death are many and contradictory. According to one legend, Orion was a famous hunter; having boasted that he could sub

sted that he could subdue the wildest and fiercest animals, the earth was displeased at his presumption, and sent a scorpio

leased at his presumption, and sent a scorpion to sting him. The hero was changed, after death, into a constellation which

st resplendent group in the winter heavens. Perseus. Ques. Who was Perseus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter, and of

n the winter heavens. Perseus. Ques. Who was Perseus? Ans. He was the son of Jupiter, and of Danaë, the only daught

had been warned by an oracle that his daughter would have a son, who was destined to deprive him of life. Acrisius resolve

nd her infant son in a coffer, which he cast into the sea. The coffer was carried by the waves to the island of Seriphus, w

eriphus, where a fisherman named Dictys drew it ashore in his net. He was much surprised at beholding Danaë and the infant

at island. Polydectes received the strangers kindly, but when Perseus was grown, he strove to effect his destruction by eng

his adventure has been already related, in the article on Minerva. It was followed by the rescue of Andromeda [Androm′eda],

omeda [Androm′eda], which is too remarkable to be omitted. Ques. Who was Andromeda? Ans. She was the daughter of Cepheus,

is too remarkable to be omitted. Ques. Who was Andromeda? Ans. She was the daughter of Cepheus, king of Ethiopia. Her mo

pheus, king of Ethiopia. Her mother, Cassiopeia, had boasted that she was fairer than Juno and the Nereides. The offended n

by the monster. Cepheus consented to the sacrifice, and his daughter was chained to a rock by the sea-shore, where she was

e, and his daughter was chained to a rock by the sea-shore, where she was abandoned to her fate. Perseus, returning through

eus showed him the head of Medusa, and changed him into a rock, which was long famous upon that coast. Phineus, who had bee

ught. Polydectes, who had persecuted Danaë in the absence of Perseus, was punished in the same manner. The hero afterwards

arus — Ceyx — Alcyone — Halcyon Birds. Bellerophon. Ques. Who was Bellerophon [Beller′ophon]? Ans. This hero was t

rophon. Ques. Who was Bellerophon [Beller′ophon]? Ans. This hero was the son of Glaucus, and grandson of Sisyphus, kin

Corinth. Having accidentally killed one of his relatives, he fled, as was usual in such circumstances, and was received wit

ne of his relatives, he fled, as was usual in such circumstances, and was received with much kindness by Prœtus, king of Ar

Argos. Bellerophon had not, however, been long at Argos when the king was prejudiced by a calumnious report, and became jea

d by a calumnious report, and became jealous of the young hero. As he was ashamed to violate the rights of hospitality, he

in which he requested that prince to put the bearer to death. Jobates was also unwilling to imbrue his hands openly in the

ophon in dangerous enterprises. The first task imposed upon the hero, was the slaying of the Chimæra, a fabulous monster wh

himæra, a fabulous monster which we have already described, and which was then spreading terror through the kingdom of Lyci

in his hand, and repaired immediately to the spring at which Pegasus was accustomed to drink. The winged steed submitted t

submitted to the golden bit, Bellerophon mounted him fearlessly, and was borne through the air to his combat with the Chim

m on his return. Jobates perceived from these exploits that his guest was indeed allied to the gods, and abandoned all furt

ceived the project of mounting to heaven on his winged steed; Jupiter was indignant, and sent a gad-fly which stung the hor

, until death came to relieve his misery. Deucalion. Ques. Who was Deucalion? Ans. He was king of Thessaly, and son

lieve his misery. Deucalion. Ques. Who was Deucalion? Ans. He was king of Thessaly, and son of Prometheus. During h

uring his reign, there occurred so great a flood that the whole earth was covered with the waters. Of the entire human race

ess and humanity began to reign among them. Dædalus. Ques. Who was Dædalus [Dæd′alus]? Ans. He is said to have been

lled him by casting him down from the summit of the Acropolis. Perdix was transformed into a partridge, a timid bird which

rts, avoiding high places and lofty flights. For this murder, Dædalus was sentenced to banishment by the Court of the Areop

e famous Labyrinth. Having incurred the displeasure of Minos, Dædalus was imprisoned in a lofty tower. As there seemed no o

ed the feathers of his wings. He could no longer sustain himself, and was drowned in that sea which is called Icarian, from

is called Icarian, from his name. Dædalus arrived in Sicily, where he was employed by Cocalus [Coc′alus], king of that isla

on is that there really existed an architect of that name, whose fame was such that all the improvements made in those earl

line and augur. Ceyx — Halcyone — The Halcyon Birds. Ques. Who was Ceyx? Ans. He was a king of Trachinia, who marri

Ceyx — Halcyone — The Halcyon Birds. Ques. Who was Ceyx? Ans. He was a king of Trachinia, who married Halcyone [Halcy′

, who married Halcyone [Halcy′one], a daughter of the god Æolus. Ceyx was drowned on his way to consult the oracle of Claro

Ceyx was drowned on his way to consult the oracle of Claros. Halcyone was apprised of the sad event in a dream, in which sh

pair, and transformed them into halcyons. According to the poets, it was decreed that the sea should remain calm while the

it. Notwithstanding the querulous, lamenting note of the halcyon, it was regarded by the ancients as a symbol of tranquill

f tranquillity, and as it seemed to make its home upon the waters, it was consecrated to Thetis. Pliny tells us that these

has no connection with calm weather. The large sponge-like ball which was taken by the ancients for the floating nest of th

which was taken by the ancients for the floating nest of the halcyon, was in reality a zoöphyte, of the class named by Linn

Nisus and Scylla. Meleager — The Calydonian Hunt. Ques. What was the story of this prince? Ans. Meleager was the

ian Hunt. Ques. What was the story of this prince? Ans. Meleager was the son of Œneus and Althea, king and queen of Ca

es were, however, attracted by the fair huntress Atalanta. Her girdle was of burnished gold, an ivory quiver hung from her

side, and the weapon of Telamon proved equally harmless, while Nestor was obliged to seek safety in the branches of a tree.

was obliged to seek safety in the branches of a tree. The first wound was inflicted by an arrow from the bow of Atalanta. M

r, the ties of kindred, and slew the offenders on the spot. As Althea was going to the temple to return thanks for her son’

ngth ebbed away, and as the brand fell to ashes, the soul of the hero was breathed forth on the light winds. When the deed

soul of the hero was breathed forth on the light winds. When the deed was accomplished Althea killed herself in despair. Th

ylla. Ques. Relate the story of their transformation? Ans. Nisus was king of Megara; this city was closely besieged by

ry of their transformation? Ans. Nisus was king of Megara; this city was closely besieged by Minos, but all his efforts we

father slept. Minos received the gift with horror, and, when the city was taken, refused to permit Scylla to accompany him

ped down upon her from the sky. Scylla cast herself into the sea, and was transformed at the same moment into a lark. Er

sformed at the same moment into a lark. Erisichthon. Ques. Who was Erisichthon? Ans. He was a profane person and a

into a lark. Erisichthon. Ques. Who was Erisichthon? Ans. He was a profane person and a despiser of the gods. Ther

, and invoked vengeance on the head of their impious foe. The goddess was moved, and delivered Erisichthon into the power o

s had decreed that this goddess and Ceres should never meet, an Oread was sent to the ice-clad plains of Scythia, where Fam

In vain the unhappy man spent all his substance to obtain relief; he was reduced to misery and famished as before. He had

where. She then resumed her own form, and returned to her father, who was well pleased to find that he had still both his d

her. He again resorted to this base expedient, but as often as Mestra was sold, she was transformed, by the favor of Neptun

resorted to this base expedient, but as often as Mestra was sold, she was transformed, by the favor of Neptune, now into a

oved insufficient to supply the wants of the unhappy Erisichthon, who was compelled by hunger to devour his own flesh befor

Poets of Classic Fable — Homer — Hesiod — Virgil — Ovid. Ques. Who was Homer? Ans. Everything relating to this poet is

rs to have the best claim, and it is considered certain that the poet was by birth an Ionian; the Ionic is the dialect empl

is the more probable. According to the account generally given, Homer was for many years a schoolmaster in Smyrna. He after

named Mentes; but at length his sight became so much affected that he was obliged to remain on shore at Ithaca. While in th

he was obliged to remain on shore at Ithaca. While in this island, he was kindly entertained by a wealthy man named Mentor,

citation of his verses. He died at Ios, one of the Cyclades, where he was buried. The fame of Homer is founded on his two g

ity, but for the high moral tone which pervades his works. Ques. Who was Hesiod? Ans. This poet flourished about half a c

Ans. This poet flourished about half a century later than Homer. He was a Bœotian, and in his youth tended sheep upon Mou

Angels. Ques. When did Virgil flourish? Ans. Publius Virgilius Maro was born near Mantua in the year 70, B. C. He receive

tion, and inherited from his father a considerable estate. Of this he was deprived during the civil troubles which distract

was deprived during the civil troubles which distracted Italy, but it was afterwards restored at the intercession of a powe

iendship of Mæcenas and other generous and powerful patrons; his life was , therefore, spent in ease and prosperity. He died

f its striking coincidence with Scripture. Many suppose that the poet was acquainted with the prophecies of Isaiah. The Geo

he poets of antiquity. Ques. When did Ovid write? Ans. Ovidius Naso was born in the year 43, B. C., at Sulmo (now Sulmona

murder of the great Cicero. Ovid belonged to an equestrian family; he was educated at Rome, and enjoyed every advantage tha

capital afforded. He showed his taste for poetry at an early age, but was dissuaded from cultivating this art by his father

ve himself up to literary pursuits. A career of unexampled prosperity was now opened to the poet. He enjoyed the favor of A

inments, or were recited in the theatre amid bursts of applause. Ovid was not content with the nobler pleasures of fame and

t restraint into all the vices and follies of which the Roman capital was the centre. This career of prosperity and pleasur

Roman capital was the centre. This career of prosperity and pleasure was brought suddenly to a close. Ovid was banished by

reer of prosperity and pleasure was brought suddenly to a close. Ovid was banished by Augustus to Tomi, (now Temiswar) on t

ustus to Tomi, (now Temiswar) on the shores of the Euxine. The decree was executed with the utmost severity. But one wretch

decree was executed with the utmost severity. But one wretched night was allowed to the poet to deplore his fate, and take

ed so severe a punishment. The immoral tendency of some of his poems, was the ostensible reason set forth by the emperor; b

which he bewails his hard fate, and describes the scenes by which he was surrounded. From the severity of the climate, and

Spring brought with it neither birds nor flowers. In Summer, the sun was obscured by clouds; the Autumn shed no fruits, bu

f the boisterous Euxine on its desert shore. The only animated object was the wild Sarmatian driving his car, yoked with ox

hair and beard sparkling with the hoar frost and flakes of snow. Such was the abode for which the poet was compelled to exc

hoar frost and flakes of snow. Such was the abode for which the poet was compelled to exchange the theatres, the porticoes

bles. There are, in all, two hundred and fifty of these stories. Ovid was engaged in correcting this, his greatest work, wh

ries. Ovid was engaged in correcting this, his greatest work, when he was surprised by the sentence of banishment. In a fit

t into the flames. Some of his friends possessed copies, and the poem was thus preserved. If the Metamorphoses had been des

arbarians listened with delight to his recitations, until their anger was excited by his constant complaints of their rude

of Polyxena — Transformation of Hecuba. Agamemnon. Ques. Who was Agamemnon? Ans. He was king of Mycenæ, and comma

ation of Hecuba. Agamemnon. Ques. Who was Agamemnon? Ans. He was king of Mycenæ, and commander-in-chief of the Gre

ef of the Grecian forces during the siege of Troy. The combined fleet was detained for a long time at Aulis, owing to the w

ffended by killing one of her favorite deer. Calchas, the soothsayer, was consulted; he declared that the goddess could onl

ce of Iphigenia [Iphige′nia], the oldest daughter of the monarch. She was accordingly led to the altar, but Diana was moved

ghter of the monarch. She was accordingly led to the altar, but Diana was moved with pity, and carried the maiden with her

e decreed that no one should attach any credit to her predictions. It was so in the present instance. Clytemnestra, the que

sandra warned Agamemnon against returning thither, but her prediction was disregarded. Agamemnon was assassinated immediate

inst returning thither, but her prediction was disregarded. Agamemnon was assassinated immediately on his arrival at Mycenæ

mediately on his arrival at Mycenæ; according to the tragic poets, it was Clytemnestra who dealt the fatal blow. Achille

was Clytemnestra who dealt the fatal blow. Achilles. Ques. Who was Achilles? Ans. He was the son of Peleus, king of

alt the fatal blow. Achilles. Ques. Who was Achilles? Ans. He was the son of Peleus, king of Phthiotis [Phthio′tis]

son of Peleus, king of Phthiotis [Phthio′tis] in Thessaly; his mother was Thetis, a sea-goddess. Many incredible stories ar

y incredible stories are told concerning the manner in which the hero was nursed in his infancy. According to one account,

eclared that Troy could not be taken without his aid, and Thetis, who was aware that her son was destined to perish if he j

not be taken without his aid, and Thetis, who was aware that her son was destined to perish if he joined the expedition, d

ealed him among the daughters of King Lycomedes [Lycome′des]. Ulysses was sent to discover his retreat, which he effected b

re disposed among the merchandise; by the order of Ulysses, a trumpet was suddenly blown, when the disguised Achilles betra

sed Achilles betrayed himself by seizing the armor. The young warrior was then obliged to join the expedition. During the s

hich he had lent to Patroclus, had become the spoil of Hector, and it was upon this occasion that Vulcan fabricated for the

ree times around the tomb of Patroclus. The corpse of the Trojan hero was yielded at last, to the tears and supplications o

yielded at last, to the tears and supplications of Priam, and a truce was granted to the Trojans, for the performance of th

ed to the Trojans, for the performance of the funeral rites. Achilles was himself slain soon after; his ashes were mingled

shes were mingled in a golden urn with those of Patroclus, and a tomb was erected to both heroes, on the promontory of Sigæ

his tomb, Polyxena, one of the daughters of Priam. The unhappy maiden was torn from her mother’s arms, and immolated by Pyr

d been commended by Priam to the care of Polymnestor, king of Thrace, was treacherously murdered by that monarch. The berea

While endeavoring to escape from the vengeance of the Thracians, she was suddenly transformed into a dog. Chapter XXXV

haca — Suitors of Penelope — Her Deliverance by Ulysses. Ques. Who was Ulysses? Ans. He was king of Ithaca, and had bee

lope — Her Deliverance by Ulysses. Ques. Who was Ulysses? Ans. He was king of Ithaca, and had been, like many other pri

asked the hand of Penelope [Penel′ope], daughter of Icarus. His suit was granted; but when he was about to depart with his

pe [Penel′ope], daughter of Icarus. His suit was granted; but when he was about to depart with his bride, Icarus was so muc

t was granted; but when he was about to depart with his bride, Icarus was so much grieved, that he tried to persuade Penelo

a. Ulysses bade her act according to her inclination, saying that she was free to remain, if such was her desire. Penelope

rding to her inclination, saying that she was free to remain, if such was her desire. Penelope made no reply, but dropped h

pped her veil over her face. Icarus urged her no longer, and when she was gone, he erected a statue to Modesty, on the spot

n princes were called upon to revenge the abduction of Helen, Ulysses was unwilling to leave his peaceful kingdom, and sacr

r hastened to remove the child, convinced every one that his insanity was feigned. He was obliged, therefore, to join the e

move the child, convinced every one that his insanity was feigned. He was obliged, therefore, to join the expedition agains

sation against Palamedes, which he supported so well, that the latter was condemned, and put to death. Ulysses distinguishe

to Greece, but he met with so many extraordinary adventures, that it was only after ten years of peril and hardships, that

res, that it was only after ten years of peril and hardships, that he was permitted to land upon the shores of Ithaca. The

who regaled them with their own favorite food, the lotus plant. This was of such a nature, that all who partook of it forg

ey had no other desire than to remain always in that country. Ulysses was obliged to have these men dragged away by force,

as obliged to have these men dragged away by force, and even then, it was necessary to bind them with ropes to the benches

, by offering a portion in sacrifice. Ulysses returning to the shore, was struck with horror at their temerity, the more so

and the joints of meat lowed on the spits while roasting. As the wind was now favorable, Ulysses hastened to fly from the f

rible storm arose, in which all perished, except Ulysses himself, who was spared as having taken no part in the sacrilege.

n the sacrilege. He formed a raft from the fragments of his ship, and was at length cast by the waves upon the island of th

ommand that she should dismiss Ulysses, and provide him with all that was necessary for his homeward voyage. The goddess re

ssary for his homeward voyage. The goddess reluctantly obeyed; a raft was constructed and furnished, and Ulysses departed f

ses departed from the island. He sped prosperously for some days, and was almost within sight of land, when a violent storm

kindly, and fitted out a ship in which he sailed for Ithaca. Ulysses was asleep when the vessel touched the strand. The Ph

chest filled with costly gifts, after which they sailed away. Neptune was so much displeased with the Phæacians for aiding

spleased with the Phæacians for aiding Ulysses, that, as their vessel was returning to port, he transformed it into a rock,

d after the fall of Troy, and no tidings were received of Ulysses, it was generally believed that he had perished. More tha

do so when she had completed a certain web of embroidery on which she was engaged. They agreed to wait, and Penelope deceiv

welve rings suspended in a line. The conditions were accepted: and it was on the very eve of the day appointed for the cont

the day appointed for the contest, that Ulysses landed in Ithaca. It was necessary to conceal his return; for this purpose

r, and by the aid of Minerva, so changed his whole appearance that it was impossible for any one to recognize him. In this

it was impossible for any one to recognize him. In this character he was kindly received by Eumæus, a swine-herd, from who

or the punishment of the suitors, and the deliverance of Penelope. It was resolved that Telemachus should proceed to the pa

ad in sudden recognition, fawned upon his old master, and expired. It was Argus, whom Ulysses had often led to the chase. T

ised hero. At length, the time arrived for the contest of skill which was to decide the fate of Penelope. Twelve rings were

o remove all other weapons from the hall. The first thing to be done, was to bend the bow, in order to attach the string. T

bow, in order to attach the string. This Telemachus tried to do, and was obliged to confess that his strength was unequal

Telemachus tried to do, and was obliged to confess that his strength was unequal to the effort. He passed the bow to one o

s unequal to the effort. He passed the bow to one of the suitors, who was compelled to yield it in turn, amid the raillery

Ulysses begged that he might be allowed to try his skill. The request was received with shouts of derision, and some would

andle the mighty weapon as if it had been a plaything. Their surprise was still greater, when, having adjusted the cord, an

rs. A desperate struggle ensued, in which all were slain, and Ulysses was left master of his palace and his kingdom. The Od

ynices — Theban War — Heroism of Antigone. Orestes. Ques. Who was Orestes? Ans. He was the son of Agamemnon and Cl

Heroism of Antigone. Orestes. Ques. Who was Orestes? Ans. He was the son of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. At the tim

ra. At the time of his father’s assassination, Orestes, then a child, was saved by his sister Electra, who sent him secretl

e he formed a friendship with Pylades, the son of that monarch, which was so true and constant that it passed into a prover

which was so true and constant that it passed into a proverb. Orestes was urged by messages from his sister Electra, to ave

ngs, but Ægisthus made no effort to conceal his satisfaction. Orestes was now seized with horror at the thought of the deed

restes was now seized with horror at the thought of the deed which he was about to commit, but the reproaches of Electra, a

ed by the guilt of Clytemnestra, and the express command of the gods, was abhorrent to nature, and could not pass unavenged

gods, was abhorrent to nature, and could not pass unavenged. Orestes was pursued by the Furies, and wandered frantic and d

and, always accompanied by the faithful Pylades. The oracle of Apollo was consulted, and the Pythia declared that Orestes w

Argos, a certain statue of Diana, from the temple of that goddess. It was the custom at Tauris, to sacrifice all strangers

ival, and carried as victims to the temple. The officiating priestess was no other than Iphigenia, the sister of Orestes, w

than Iphigenia, the sister of Orestes, whom Diana had saved when she was about to be immolated at Aulis. Perceiving that t

th yielded to Orestes, and consented to take the letter. His surprise was great on perceiving that it was addressed to Ores

nted to take the letter. His surprise was great on perceiving that it was addressed to Orestes himself; an explanation foll

hich they brought to Argos. Orestes reigned many years in Mycenæ, and was married to his cousin Hermione, daughter of Menel

t Delphi. By the command of that god, he repaired to Athens, where he was tried by the court of Areopagus. The judges were

their sentiments, but Minerva interfered in behalf of Orestes, and he was acquitted. Hector. Ques. Who was Hector?

in behalf of Orestes, and he was acquitted. Hector. Ques. Who was Hector? Ans. He was the son of Priam and Hecuba,

, and he was acquitted. Hector. Ques. Who was Hector? Ans. He was the son of Priam and Hecuba, and the most valiant

oy should not be taken as long as Hector lived. The hero knew that he was destined to fall before the walls of his native c

ife Andromache [Androm′ache]. He fell as we have seen, and this event was shortly followed by the overthrow of his father’s

was shortly followed by the overthrow of his father’s kingdom. Hector was not only distinguished as a warrior and a patriot

dom. Hector was not only distinguished as a warrior and a patriot; he was equally admirable as a son, husband, and father;

oblest which has been described by any writer of antiquity. When Troy was taken, Calchas excited much uneasiness among the

ge his father’s death, and raise Troy from its ruins. Diligent search was therefore made for the child, who had been concea

een concealed by his mother in the recesses of Hector’s tomb. Here he was discovered by Ulysses. Disregarding the prayers o

of a lofty tower. Œdipus — Eteocles And Polynices. Ques. What was the story of these princes? Ans. Œdipus was the

olynices. Ques. What was the story of these princes? Ans. Œdipus was the son of Laius [La′ius], king of Thebes. He was

inces? Ans. Œdipus was the son of Laius [La′ius], king of Thebes. He was exposed by his father immediately on his birth, t

irth, to avoid the fulfillment of an oracle which declared that Laius was destined to fall by the hand of one of his childr

Laius was destined to fall by the hand of one of his children. Œdipus was found by a herdsman, who brought him to Polybus [

who brought him to Polybus [Pol′ybus], king of Corinth. This monarch was childless, and adopted the infant as his own. Whe

monarch was childless, and adopted the infant as his own. When Œdipus was grown to manhood, he desired to learn something o

hrone to his sons Eteocles [Ete′ocles] and Polynices [Polyni′ces]. It was agreed between the brothers that they should reig

when the year had expired, he refused to resign the crown. Polynices was indignant at this breach of faith, and fled to Ar

o enforce the claims of his son-in-law. The command of the expedition was given to seven chieftains, who were to attack eac

he Argive leaders, except Adrastus, had perished before the walls, it was proposed that Eteocles and Polynices should decid

ught with such animosity that both fell, mortally wounded. The battle was then renewed, and the Argives were totally defeat

rgives were totally defeated. Creon, the uncle of the fallen princes, was now king of Thebes; he had the body of Eteocles h

with earth, making the usual libations. While thus engaged, Antigone was seized and brought before Creon. She defended nob

Creon. She defended nobly the pious act which she had performed, and was condemned by the tyrant to be entombed alive. The

f Turnus and Marriage of Æneas with Lavinia — His Death. Ques. Who was Æneas? Ans. He was a Trojan chief, the son of Ve

e of Æneas with Lavinia — His Death. Ques. Who was Æneas? Ans. He was a Trojan chief, the son of Venus and Anchises [An

He was a Trojan chief, the son of Venus and Anchises [Anchi′ses]. He was born on Mount Ida, where he was nurtured by the D

of Venus and Anchises [Anchi′ses]. He was born on Mount Ida, where he was nurtured by the Dryads until he had attained his

nurtured by the Dryads until he had attained his fifth year, when he was brought to his father. Anchises was not on friend

attained his fifth year, when he was brought to his father. Anchises was not on friendly terms with the family of Priam, b

to the utmost in defence of his country. Excepting Hector only, there was no Trojan who so distinguished himself by his val

re was no Trojan who so distinguished himself by his valor. When Troy was taken, Æneas made his escape from the burning cit

d Anchises, and leading his little son Ascanius by the hand. His wife was separated from him in the confusion and darkness,

re with him the sacred Penates of Troy, and his household gods. Æneas was joined by the greater part of the Trojans, both m

rejoiced to learn that Helenus [Hel′enus], one of the sons of Priam, was reigning in that country. He had married Andromac

roy had appeared at night to Anchises, and revealed to him that Italy was the land allotted by the Fates to the exiled Troj

called a prediction of Cassandra to the same effect; and Helenus, who was endowed with the gift of prophecy, now confirmed

power, and dismissed them at length, loaded with costly gifts. Æneas was destined to pass through many perils before landi

n the coast of Africa; here they were kindly entertained by Dido, who was then engaged in the erection of her new city of C

ecrees of fate, they lingered many months in idle pleasure, and Æneas was only roused to action by the direct intervention

rding the tears and reproaches of the queen. When Dido found that all was unavailing, and that the Trojans had already emba

the wars which awaited him. Æneas next landed at Cumæ, in Italy. This was the abode of a famous Sibyl, of whom we will spea

, of whom we will speak elsewhere. She foretold to the hero much that was to happen during his settlement in Italy; but in

with the Sibyl to the dreary realms of Pluto. After seeing much that was wonderful, and passing through regions inhabited

ses of departed souls, they entered the happy plains of Elysium. This was the abode of the heroes and other favorites of th

st, anchoring at length in the mouth of the Tiber. The country around was governed by a prince named Latinus, the son of Fa

and had been promised to Turnus, prince of the Rutulians, but Latinus was warned by an oracle that his destined son-in-law

ans, but Latinus was warned by an oracle that his destined son-in-law was to come from afar, and that Lavinia was to wed a

that his destined son-in-law was to come from afar, and that Lavinia was to wed a foreigner. When Æneas sent an embassy to

to settle in the country, that prince believed that the Trojan chief was the person pointed out by the oracle, and invited

a peaceful settlement to the harassed Trojans, but the enmity of Juno was not yet appeased. She sent the Fury Alecto to the

f Turnus, with orders to excite this prince against the stranger, who was about to rob him of his promised bride. A long wa

ngth Turnus fell in a personal combat with Æneas. The hand of Lavinia was the price of victory, and from the Trojan hero we

ho became one people under the common name of Latins. The new kingdom was attacked by several of the neighboring princes, l

es, led by Mezentius, king of Etruria. Æneas defeated the allies, but was killed in the moment of victory. The family of Ju

to the historian Varro, they were ten in number. The most celebrated was the Cumæan Sibyl, of whom the poets give the foll

the Augurs he bought the books, upon which the sibyl disappeared and was never seen after. These books were preserved with

reat care, and were called the Sibylline Verses. A college of priests was appointed to take charge of them, and they were c

olemnity, whenever the state seemed to be in danger. When the Capitol was burned in the troubles raised by Sylla, the Sibyl

phecies, and at that time, about the middle of the second century, it was not possible that the Christians should have adde

expectation of a Saviour, and the belief that the time of his advent was approaching, existed even among the pagans. Di

Ques. Who were the Augurs? Ans. They were priests whose office it was to observe and interpret omens. This science was

ests whose office it was to observe and interpret omens. This science was derived from the ancient Etrurians. There were fi

ure, such as thunder, lightning, comets, etc. The second kind of omen was obtained by observing the cries and the flight of

the appetite of the sacred chickens; when they did not eat, the omen was so bad that it was considered unlucky to give bat

e sacred chickens; when they did not eat, the omen was so bad that it was considered unlucky to give battle, or undertake a

der, (Claudius Pulcher,) when about to engage the fleet of the enemy, was warned by the Augurs that the sacred chickens wou

is believed that the terrible defeat the Romans suffered on that day was owing, in great part, to the discouragement of th

g with quadrupeds in any unaccustomed place. The fifth class of omens was taken from different casualties, such as spilling

ed to answer those who consulted them, were called oracles. This word was also applied to the responses given. Ques. Name

e Castalian Fount. Ques. Describe the oracle of Dodona. Ans. Dodona was a town of Epirus, probably situated in the valley

es when they were dissatisfied with her answers. The oracle of Dodona was probably the most ancient in Greece. The temple w

oracle of Dodona was probably the most ancient in Greece. The temple was founded by the Pelasgi long before the siege of T

e temple was founded by the Pelasgi long before the siege of Troy; it was partially destroyed by the Ætolians during the So

pors, exhaling from the earth, affected him in the same way; his body was convulsed, and he spoke words which revealed futu

aled futurity. Others experienced similar effects, and the exhalation was supposed to have a certain divine property. The c

exhalation was supposed to have a certain divine property. The cavity was approached with reverence; a tripod was placed ov

n divine property. The cavity was approached with reverence; a tripod was placed over it; and a priestess or Pythia was app

ith reverence; a tripod was placed over it; and a priestess or Pythia was appointed to preside. The words which she uttered

to be inspired by Apollo; crowds came to consult the oracle; a temple was built, and the city of Delphi arose insensibly ar

e had become intoxicated by the vapor from the sanctuary. This effect was not produced at all times, and on some days it wa

tuary. This effect was not produced at all times, and on some days it was not permitted to consult the oracle. Spring was c

, and on some days it was not permitted to consult the oracle. Spring was considered the most propitious season. When Apoll

oracle. Spring was considered the most propitious season. When Apollo was favorably disposed, his approach was made known b

t propitious season. When Apollo was favorably disposed, his approach was made known by the moving of a laurel that stood b

of a laurel that stood before the gate of the temple. The sacred tree was then seen to tremble in every leaf. The Pythia wa

e. The sacred tree was then seen to tremble in every leaf. The Pythia was obliged to prepare by fasts, sacrifices and purif

cautiously worded as to seem true, whatever might be the event. Such was the answer given to Crœsus [Crœ′sus], king of Lyd

could not fail of being fulfilled. There is no doubt that the Pythia was often influenced by persuasion or bribes, and man

aving bought the oracles they desired. The temple of Apollo at Delphi was enriched by the offerings of different princes, a

ied with one another in the magnificence of their gifts. The building was destroyed by fire in the year 548 B. C., but was

gifts. The building was destroyed by fire in the year 548 B. C., but was soon rebuilt. Xerxes, after having forced the pas

chment of his army to plunder the treasures of Delphi. The expedition was unsuccessful, owing, as the Delphians asserted, t

ld and silver, a sum equal to ten million dollars. Still later Delphi was threatened by the Gauls, under their king Brennus

at one time, no less than five hundred statues of bronze. The temple was finally dismantled by Constantine the Great, who

hing in the central part of the ruins of the ancient city. Ques. Who was Trophonius, and for what was his oracle remarkabl

he ruins of the ancient city. Ques. Who was Trophonius, and for what was his oracle remarkable? Ans. Trophonius, and his

temple of Apollo at Delphi. According to one legend, when the edifice was finished, they asked the god to reward them for t

ceremonies were observed in consulting this oracle? Ans. The votary was first purified by solemn ablutions; then, after o

ders into the first, or upper cavern. The opening into the lower cave was extremely narrow, and there was apparently nothin

vern. The opening into the lower cave was extremely narrow, and there was apparently nothing to aid the descent. Here, thos

a rapid river. In the mysterious depths of the lower cave, the future was revealed, but not to all in the same manner; some

embling what we now call animal magnetism, or mesmerism. Ques. Where was the temple of Jupiter Ammon? Ans. It was situate

or mesmerism. Ques. Where was the temple of Jupiter Ammon? Ans. It was situated in an oasis of the Libyan desert, called

n desert, Bacchus came to a barren waste of sand where his whole army was in danger of perishing for want of water. He call

t, a temple which he dedicated to Jupiter. As the surrounding country was called Hammodes [Hammo′des] from Hammon or Ammon,

y was called Hammodes [Hammo′des] from Hammon or Ammon, sand, the god was worshipped here under this title, and was always

mon or Ammon, sand, the god was worshipped here under this title, and was always represented as having the head and horns o

d horns of a ram. The temple soon became celebrated as an oracle, and was enriched, like that of Delphi, by splendid offeri

e body of troops across the desert to seize its treasures. As nothing was ever heard of this expedition, it seems probable

, but saluted the king as the son of Jupiter. The site of this temple was discovered in the last century by an English trav

iption given by Herodotus. According to that historian, this fountain was always tepid at dawn, icy cold at noon; it grew w

pid at dawn, icy cold at noon; it grew warm again towards sunset, and was boiling hot at midnight. Belzoni says that this a

ture of the fountain. Belzoni had no thermometer with him, so that he was unable to test the truth of this supposition. Qu

hat he was unable to test the truth of this supposition. Ques. Where was the oracle of Æsculapius? Ans. This god was cons

upposition. Ques. Where was the oracle of Æsculapius? Ans. This god was consulted by the sick in many places, but his mos

consulted by the sick in many places, but his most celebrated oracle was in his native city of Epidaurus in Argolis. This

ed oracle was in his native city of Epidaurus in Argolis. This oracle was so famous that in the year 293 B. C., when a terr

was so famous that in the year 293 B. C., when a terrible pestilence was raging in Rome, the Senate sent a solemn embassy

solemn embassy to Epidaurus to implore the aid of Æsculapius. The god was propitious, and accompanied the returning embassy

Rome a sacred serpent which they nourished in the temple. Ques. What was particularly remarkable in the oracles of Æsculap

t we now call animal magnetism, or mesmerism. The temple of Epidaurus was plundered by Sylla to defray the expenses of the

a to defray the expenses of the war against Mithridates. Ques. Where was the Castalian Fount? Ans. There were two celebra

re two celebrated springs of that name; one on Mount Parnassus, which was sacred to the Muses, and another near Daphne, in

was sacred to the Muses, and another near Daphne, in Syria. This last was believed to impart the knowledge of futurity to t

The oracle of this fountain promised the empire to Hadrian, while he was yet in a private station. When he ascended the th

o mere human jugglery and imposture, there were occasions in which it was impossible to doubt the direct agency of evil spi

us Christ, or by the sign of the cross; and sometimes the same effect was produced by their simple presence in the temple.

Olympic games? Ans. They were very ancient; their first institution was attributed by the Greeks to Hercules. They were r

imes in the month Parthenius, (August). The time of their celebration was a period of sacred truce, sufficiently prolonged

eturn to their homes in safety. The interval between the celebrations was called an Olympiad, and the Greeks usually counte

haracters had never been stained by any base or immoral act. So great was the importance attached to race, that even the ki

reeks to a victory gained in any of these exercises. The prize itself was a crown of wild olive. This was cut from a tree i

of these exercises. The prize itself was a crown of wild olive. This was cut from a tree in the sacred grove of Olympia, w

olive. This was cut from a tree in the sacred grove of Olympia, which was said to have been brought by Hercules from the la

brought by Hercules from the land of the Hyperboreans. A palm branch was at the same time placed in the victor’s hand, and

branch was at the same time placed in the victor’s hand, and his name was proclaimed by the herald. On his return home, mor

exander the Great. This passage is sufficient to show what importance was attached to such a victory, when we see it thus c

laus, king of Sparta, first opened this path of glory to her sex, and was proclaimed conqueror in the four-horse chariot ra

r in the four-horse chariot race. This victory, till then unexampled, was celebrated with all possible splendor. A magnific

ed, was celebrated with all possible splendor. A magnificent monument was erected in Sparta in honor of Cynisca, and the La

e temple of Apollo at Delphi; in this votive offering, the charioteer was also represented; which proves that she had not d

ever attempted. The portrait of Cynisca, drawn by the great Apelles, was afterwards placed in the same temple. Ques. Were

e any other exercises admitted at the Olympic games? Ans. Yes; there was also an intellectual competition, which was perha

c games? Ans. Yes; there was also an intellectual competition, which was perhaps more lively and ardent than any other, as

re lively and ardent than any other, as the victory in such a contest was more highly esteemed. The best writers and poets

c games, believing that the approbation of so illustrious an assembly was the most certain means of establishing a great re

certain means of establishing a great reputation in a little time. It was thus that Herodotus read his history to assembled

. It was thus that Herodotus read his history to assembled Greece. It was received with enthusiastic applause, and the name

immediately given to the nine books which compose the work. Dionysius was not so fortunate. This prince believed himself th

c oracle had already gained some reputation. The Amphictyonic council was charged with the superintendence of the games, wh

irst every ninth, and afterwards every fifth year. The crown bestowed was of bay. Ques. Where were the Nemean games celebr

were of parsley, because these were originally funeral games, and it was customary to lay chaplets of parsley on the tombs

hey were celebrated. They were instituted in honor of Melicertes, who was changed into a sea deity. After falling into negl

were at first rewarded with garlands of pine leaves, but this custom was changed, and the pine was replaced by a crown of

th garlands of pine leaves, but this custom was changed, and the pine was replaced by a crown of withered parsley. Chapt

itself. Ques. Describe the general plan of a Greek theatre? Ans. It was quite open above, and the dramas were always acte

dered it almost unnecessary. If a storm or a shower came on, the play was , of course, interrupted; the gods and heroes disa

n a close and crowded house, and forfeit the sunny brightness of what was to them a national, and even, in some sort, relig

es. This theatre stood on the southeastern side of the eminence which was crowned by the noble buildings of the Acropolis.

ty thousand persons arose, range above range; higher still, the whole was enclosed by a lofty portico adorned with statues

reserved for the high magistrates, the priests and the Senate. Below, was the semicircular orchestra, or pit, which was gen

and the Senate. Below, was the semicircular orchestra, or pit, which was generally occupied by the chorus. Elevated above

e chorus. Elevated above the orchestra, and opposite the lower seats, was the stage itself. This had a very wide front and

tage grew deeper, and formed a quadrangle called the proscenium. This was enclosed by lofty buildings of stone-work, repres

of the interior might be exposed to view. The rank of the personages was generally indicated by the particular door at whi

ty. Wonderful effects were produced by the use of the machinery which was disposed behind the walls of the stage. Supported

e there were appropriate contrivances for their introduction. When it was necessary to conceal the stage, the curtain was n

introduction. When it was necessary to conceal the stage, the curtain was not dropped, but drawn up from beneath the floor.

the disproportion of the size of the head with the rest of the body, was obviated by two different contrivances. The cothu

was obviated by two different contrivances. The cothurnus, or buskin, was soled with several layers of cork, which added at

added at least three inches to the height of the actor, and the dress was judiciously padded, so as to give the whole figur

and volume, almost as a speaking trumpet would have done. Ques. What was the Chorus? Ans. It was a choir of singers, vary

peaking trumpet would have done. Ques. What was the Chorus? Ans. It was a choir of singers, varying in number from fiftee

ad of a tyrant. Besides this more legitimate action of the chorus, it was occasionally permitted to take part in the dialog

Even in this case they always remained in the orchestra. The singing was always accompanied by dances which varied accordi

s, wreathed with serpents, in their fleshless hands, and their aspect was rendered still more terrible by the frightful mas

d such a chorus in one of his tragedies, the terror of the spectators was such that many fainted, and several children died

n this connection we have an interesting story. Ibycus, a lyric poet, was on his way to the Isthmian games, when he was way

. Ibycus, a lyric poet, was on his way to the Isthmian games, when he was waylaid by two robbers. The unhappy bard called i

y two robbers. The unhappy bard called in vain for aid; no human help was near; but his last, despairing cry was echoed by

in vain for aid; no human help was near; but his last, despairing cry was echoed by the hoarse scream of a flock of cranes

airing cry was echoed by the hoarse scream of a flock of cranes which was passing overhead. The dying poet heard, and looki

to which, however, they paid no heed at the time. The body of Ibycus was found and recognized, and the multitude assembled

d step, and made the circuit of the Theatre. The sound of instruments was heard no more as their choral hymn swelled and ro

appiness enjoyed by the pure of heart, of the good man whose dwelling was never darkened by their shadow. Then the blood of

listeners grew cold with fear as they told of the vengeance which it was theirs to wreak on the secret murderer, on him wh

solemn stillness settled on the vast assembly. At this moment a voice was heard from the upper benches, exclaiming, as if i

ld, comrade! yonder are the cranes of Ibycus!” and a flight of cranes was seen passing directly over the Theatre. The name

exclamation might mean, and what had the cranes to do with him. A cry was raised to seize the man who had spoken, and the o

hey failed to appear on the appointed day. When such an entertainment was about to take place, the people hastened to the t

me day. Ques. Were these theatres free to all? Ans. No; each person was obliged to pay a small sum for admission. When Pe

ay have been the faults of the Greek drama, there is no doubt that it was intended to inculcate principles of religion and

e, the Minerva of the Parthenon and the Venus de Medicis. Ques. What was the Olympian Jupiter? Ans. This statue, now lost

s. Ques. What was the Olympian Jupiter? Ans. This statue, now lost, was forty feet in height, on a pedestal of twelve fee

now lost, was forty feet in height, on a pedestal of twelve feet. It was considered the finest work of art of the great At

ich are remarkable for their calm majesty of expression. The material was what the Greeks called chryselephantine; that is,

erial was what the Greeks called chryselephantine; that is, the flesh was composed of plates of ivory skillfully laid on; b

stance is sufficient to account for the destruction of the statue. It was executed for the temple of Jupiter at Olympia, wh

e statue. It was executed for the temple of Jupiter at Olympia, which was worthy of such an adornment, being one of the mos

reece. Ques. Describe the Minerva of the Parthenon? Ans. The statue was of the same dimensions and was composed of the sa

rva of the Parthenon? Ans. The statue was of the same dimensions and was composed of the same materials as the Olympian Ju

ns and was composed of the same materials as the Olympian Jupiter; it was also the work of Phidias. The Parthenon was one o

the Olympian Jupiter; it was also the work of Phidias. The Parthenon was one of the most beautiful of the Greek temples, a

The Parthenon was one of the most beautiful of the Greek temples, and was enriched by the hand of Phidias with statues and

xisted in its full beauty for more than a century after his death. It was first despoiled by Lachares, who stripped the sta

illion of dollars. The temple itself resisted the attacks of time; it was used successively as a Christian church and a Tur

was used successively as a Christian church and a Turkish mosque, and was still entire when the Venetians besieged the cita

ar 1687. The Turks converted the Parthenon into a powder magazine; it was unfortunately struck by a bomb, and the entire ed

gazine; it was unfortunately struck by a bomb, and the entire edifice was reduced to its present ruinous condition. Some of

of the Medicis family. An inscription on its base informs us that it was carved by Cleomenes, an Athenian sculptor, 200 B.

om this Divinity — Germanicus — Harpocrates — Quotation. Ques. Who was Osiris? Ans. Osiris, Apis and Serapis, are three

nd Serapis, are three different names of one and the same god. Osiris was the son of Jupiter and of Niobe, the daughter of

married, as we have already learned, Io, the daughter of Inachus, who was more generally known to the Egyptians by the name

was more generally known to the Egyptians by the name of Isis. Osiris was cruelly murdered by his brother Typhon. Isis, aft

. Osiris became from that time the tutelar deity of the Egyptians. He was regarded as identical with the sun, while Isis wa

the Egyptians. He was regarded as identical with the sun, while Isis was supposed, like Cybele, to personify the earth. Q

le Isis was supposed, like Cybele, to personify the earth. Ques. How was this goddess represented? Ans. As a woman with t

he decorations of Egyptian temples. After the worship of this goddess was introduced into Rome, her image was adorned with

After the worship of this goddess was introduced into Rome, her image was adorned with different emblems. The mysterious ri

ed the images of the goddess to be thrown into the Tiber; her worship was , however, afterwards revived. The abuses attendin

ing it are mentioned with indignation by the poet Juvenal. Ques. Who was Apis? Ans. He was the sacred bull of Memphis. Th

d with indignation by the poet Juvenal. Ques. Who was Apis? Ans. He was the sacred bull of Memphis. The Egyptians maintai

ssor. Sacrifices were offered to this strange divinity; his birth-day was celebrated with great magnificence, and it was be

ivinity; his birth-day was celebrated with great magnificence, and it was believed that during this festival the crocodiles

pels, and a court for exercise, were assigned to this god, whose food was always served in vessels of gold. It may be doubt

served in vessels of gold. It may be doubted whether the poor animal was capable of appreciating these extraordinary honor

oor animal was capable of appreciating these extraordinary honors; he was not permitted, however, to enjoy them beyond a st

yond a stated period. If he attained the age of twenty-five years, he was drowned by the attendant priests in the sacred ci

was drowned by the attendant priests in the sacred cistern; his body was then carefully embalmed, and buried in the temple

it occurred in the course of nature or by violence, the whole country was plunged into mourning, which lasted until his suc

e country was plunged into mourning, which lasted until his successor was found. The animal into whom the divinity had pass

is successor was found. The animal into whom the divinity had passed, was known by many extraordinary marks; a square white

finding an animal with these extraordinary marks, and the happy event was immediately celebrated throughout Egypt. Ques. H

proposed a question, offered food to the sacred animal; if he ate, it was considered a favorable omen. It was also a good a

the sacred animal; if he ate, it was considered a favorable omen. It was also a good augury if he entered, of his own acco

ffered food to Apis, the animal refused to eat, and this circumstance was afterwards considered as ominous of the early fat

nsidered as ominous of the early fate of the Roman prince. Ques. Who was Harpocrates? Ans. Horus or Harpocrates was the s

Roman prince. Ques. Who was Harpocrates? Ans. Horus or Harpocrates was the son of Osiris. He was worshipped as the god o

was Harpocrates? Ans. Horus or Harpocrates was the son of Osiris. He was worshipped as the god of Silence, and is represen

her signification, and were applied to distinct deities. Ques. Where was the Sun worshipped under the name of Baal or Bel

Bel (the Lord)? Ans. In Babylon. The famous tower of Babel or Belus, was there devoted to his worship, although the highes

e highest apartment of the edifice served also as an observatory, and was the repository of the most ancient astronomical o

ly believed that with these nations, and the ancient Canaanites, this was one of the many appellations of the Sun. Ques. W

baal, Jerubbaal; among the latter, Hannibal, Asdrubal. Ques. By whom was the worship of Baal introduced among the Israelit

tate Hebrews carried this abominable worship. Moloch. Ques. Who was Moloch? Ans. He was a divinity of the Ammonites.

this abominable worship. Moloch. Ques. Who was Moloch? Ans. He was a divinity of the Ammonites. The Phœnicians were

parents, were consumed in one day on the altar of Moloch. Ques. How was this god represented? Ans. By a brazen image, wh

. Ques. How was this god represented? Ans. By a brazen image, which was so contrived that when a child was laid upon its

ed? Ans. By a brazen image, which was so contrived that when a child was laid upon its extended arms, they were lowered, a

ophet thence And black Gehenna call’d, the type of Hell.” Ques. Who was Astaroth? Ans. This goddess, called by the Greek

the Greeks Astarte, represented the moon, in the same manner as Baal was held to be identical with the sun. The Hebrews al

ted the worship of these two divinities. According to Cicero, Astarte was the Syrian Venus, and it is certain that in her w

Astaroth. Notwithstanding these more innocent offerings, her worship was rendered infamous by the license which prevailed

open immorality practised by her votaries. Thammuz. Ques. Who was Thammuz? Ans. This was another name for Adonis,

ed by her votaries. Thammuz. Ques. Who was Thammuz? Ans. This was another name for Adonis, whose story is of Easter

to the sea. The Assyrian women mourned for him in the autumn-time. It was believed that at this season the river changed it

ourned for Adonis. (In the Hebrew, Thammuz.) Oannes. Ques. Who was Oannes? Ans. He was a god of the Assyrians, half

n the Hebrew, Thammuz.) Oannes. Ques. Who was Oannes? Ans. He was a god of the Assyrians, half man, half fish, who

Oannes? Ans. He was a god of the Assyrians, half man, half fish, who was said to dwell in the sea, from which he came at s

s — Bakoo — Magic and Astrology — Parsees of Hindostan. Ques. What was the religion of the ancient Persians? Ans. We de

ably written soon after his time, when the knowledge of his doctrines was still preserved. The Parsees, or modern followers

. Ques. What were the doctrines of Zoroaster? Ans. This philosopher was more enlightened than his contemporaries, and was

s. This philosopher was more enlightened than his contemporaries, and was probably acquainted with primitive tradition. He

ster reverenced the sun and fire as emblems of Ormuzd. Perpetual fire was kept burning on their altars. The Parsees of Hind

crifices? Ans. Generally on the tops of lofty mountains. Ques. When was the religion of Zoroaster suppressed in Persia?

ity, at the creation. Ques. When do the Hindoos think that the world was created? Ans. At an incredibly remote period; th

credibly remote period; they say the present arrangement of the Vedas was made by a sage named Vyasa, some five thousand ye

ich are numerous, but ten are more especially celebrated. Ques. What was the first Avatar? Ans. The first Avatar was when

celebrated. Ques. What was the first Avatar? Ans. The first Avatar was when Vishnu assumed the form of a fish, and saved

ssible the coincidence should be accidental. It is supposed this book was written after our era by some one who had heard i

on by the efforts of Christian missionaries. Buddha. Ques. Who was Buddha? Ans. Buddha is said by the Vedas to have

a different account. Ques. What do they say? Ans. They say that he was a mortal sage, called Guatama, and also Buddha, o

Buddha live? Ans. We cannot ascertain exactly, but it is probable he was a contemporary of Solomon — that is, he lived abo

lomon — that is, he lived about one thousand years before our era. He was the son of a king, and was distinguished by wisdo

bout one thousand years before our era. He was the son of a king, and was distinguished by wisdom, virtue and every persona

, and was distinguished by wisdom, virtue and every personal gift. He was so disgusted with the wickedness of men, that he

rated by the Brahmins? Ans. It appears that for several centuries it was , and that it extended to Ceylon, and the Eastern

nable and humane ideas than those who composed the Vedas, and that he was probably a true sage among his people. Ques. Is

r being tolerated for a long time, a fierce and continued persecution was raised against it. This had the effect of suppres

in India, and of spreading it in the adjacent countries. Ques. When was the worship of Buddha first introduced into China

f all things. The third religion is Buddhism, which, as we have seen, was introduced into China in the first century of our

was introduced into China in the first century of our era. Ques. Who was Confucius? Ans. Confucius is the Latinized name

osopher whom the Chinese call Kung-fu-tse, (Reverend Master Kung). He was born in the year 551 B. C., and died in 479; elev

in the year 551 B. C., and died in 479; eleven years before Socrates was born. Confucius was carefully educated in virtue

C., and died in 479; eleven years before Socrates was born. Confucius was carefully educated in virtue and learning by his

nt writers, and noticing how completely the morality of the old sages was forgotten in China, he determined to restore thei

led through the neighboring countries, preaching wherever he went; he was at one time prime minister of the empire, but his

h some chosen disciples. We read that he paid a visit to Lao-tze, and was so confounded by the sublime wisdom of that philo

ius? Ans. This philosopher did not originate any religious creed: he was simply a teacher of morality. It is thought, from

bs, etc., were simply national customs to which no superstitious idea was attached. As they were assured of this by the mos

s degenerated into superstition, and often into idolatry. The dispute was referred to Rome, and after a careful inquiry, th

ip of ancestors, were forbidden to the Chinese Christians. Ques. Who was Lao-tze? Ans. He was a Chinese philosopher, cont

forbidden to the Chinese Christians. Ques. Who was Lao-tze? Ans. He was a Chinese philosopher, contemporary with Confuciu

ame, Lao-tze, means “Old Child;” and the Chinese say this appellation was given him because he was born already old, and wi

Child;” and the Chinese say this appellation was given him because he was born already old, and with gray hair. The followe

ded character of his followers, the writings of Lao-tze prove that he was a true sage, a man of noble and elevated ideas. H

gard to God? Ans. In his writings he declares plainly that the world was erected by a threefold divinity. His followers, h

hists belong principally to the lower classes. Formerly this religion was in higher repute, but the magnificent temples of

Lama’s life, to recognize, as familiar objects, the articles which he was accustomed to use, etc. The children thus examine

s answered in so extraordinary a manner that many have supposed Satan was permitted to aid in the imposture. Chapter VII

s must have been the case for a long time; as the oldest of the Eddas was compiled only in the eleventh century, and the st

the Eddas? Ans. It is impossible to say. The oldest, or poetic Edda, was compiled by Sâmund Sigfûsson, an Icelandic priest

on, an Icelandic priest, about the middle of the eleventh century. He was educated in France and Germany, and spent some ti

Germany, and spent some time in Rome before his return to Iceland. He was induced to compile the Edda, principally, it woul

das give of the creation? Ans. They say that in the beginning, there was neither heaven nor earth, but a world of mist, in

source, froze into ice, which, gradually accumulating, the great deep was filled up. Southward from the world of mist, was

ting, the great deep was filled up. Southward from the world of mist, was the world of light. From this a warm wind flowed

iant and his progeny; also the cow Audhumbla, by whose milk the giant was nourished. The Frost Giants were the enemies of g

the side of the sea, admiring their new creation, but seeing that it was uninhabited, they resolved to create man. Aske an

the dwellings of the gods, but the most famous and beautiful of these was Valhalla, the residence of Odin. This god is repr

s day, changed to Wednesday. Ques. Has Odin any other name? Ans. He was sometimes called Alfâdur, (All father,) but this

and fighting. They feasted on the flesh of the boar Schrimnir, which was cooked every day, and became whole again every ni

ed from their wounds, and were whole as before. Thor. Ques. Who was Thor? Ans. He was Odin’s eldest son, and was god

s, and were whole as before. Thor. Ques. Who was Thor? Ans. He was Odin’s eldest son, and was god of thunder. His mi

. Thor. Ques. Who was Thor? Ans. He was Odin’s eldest son, and was god of thunder. His mighty strength depended upon

d his iron gloves. The giants at one time obtained his hammer, and he was obliged to use a very singular stratagem to recov

s obliged to use a very singular stratagem to recover it. Ques. What was this? Ans. Thor was most anxious to recover his

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

ess Freya, and refused to restore the hammer on any other terms. Thor was much troubled, as he knew how vain it was to expe

er on any other terms. Thor was much troubled, as he knew how vain it was to expect that the bright goddess of love and son

bride with great joy, attributing her silence to a modest reserve. He was much surprised, however, to see her eat for suppe

approaching nuptials that she had not eaten for many days. When Thrym was startled by the fiery eyes he saw gleaming from b

is goddess flowed around her in sunny waves that shone like gold. She was proud of this adornment; and Loki, willing to pun

ischief, found means to cut off her hair while she slept. The goddess was inconsolable, and Thor sought the insolent offend

nt offender, intending to crush him with his redoubtable hammer. Loki was terrified, and sought the dwelling of the Gnomes.

im a head of hair which they had spun from the purest gold, and which was so wonderfully wrought that it would attach itsel

e head of the wearer, and increase in length like ordinary hair. Sifa was enchanted with the golden locks, and the cunning

s name is derived the word Thursday. Frey and Freya. Ques. Who was Frey? Ans. He was one of the greatest of the god

he word Thursday. Frey and Freya. Ques. Who was Frey? Ans. He was one of the greatest of the gods. He presided over

fruits of the earth. From his name comes our word Friday. Ques. Who was Freya? Ans. She was the sister of Frey or Freyr.

From his name comes our word Friday. Ques. Who was Freya? Ans. She was the sister of Frey or Freyr. She loved music, Spr

the sister of Frey or Freyr. She loved music, Spring and flowers, and was a friend of the elves, or good fairies. Freya was

ng and flowers, and was a friend of the elves, or good fairies. Freya was invoked by lovers, and seems to have been a sort

ms to have been a sort of Scandinavian Venus. Bragi. Ques. Who was Bragi? Ans. He was god of poetry, but he scorned

rt of Scandinavian Venus. Bragi. Ques. Who was Bragi? Ans. He was god of poetry, but he scorned all lighter strains

? Ans. He was god of poetry, but he scorned all lighter strains, and was the patron of those only who sung the praises of

n the approach of the Great Twilight, and the end of time, this fruit was to lose its magic power. Heimdall. Ques. W

e, this fruit was to lose its magic power. Heimdall. Ques. Who was Heimdall? Ans. He was the watchman of the gods,

se its magic power. Heimdall. Ques. Who was Heimdall? Ans. He was the watchman of the gods, and was stationed at th

Ques. Who was Heimdall? Ans. He was the watchman of the gods, and was stationed at the extreme verge of heaven to guard

ade Valhalla. Heimdall required less sleep than a bird, and his sight was so keen that he could distinguish the smallest ob

d leagues around, even in the darkest night. His quickness of hearing was equally wonderful; he could hear the wool growing

ircles until it reached the uttermost confines of the world. Heimdall was not permitted to marry, lest any care for wife or

n might interrupt his unceasing watchfulness. Vidar. Ques. Who was Vidar? Ans. He was the god of silence. His stren

s unceasing watchfulness. Vidar. Ques. Who was Vidar? Ans. He was the god of silence. His strength was almost equal

Ques. Who was Vidar? Ans. He was the god of silence. His strength was almost equal to that of Thor; he was often employ

the god of silence. His strength was almost equal to that of Thor; he was often employed like Mercury as messenger of the g

d him equally in the air, and upon the water. Hodur. Ques. Who was Hodur? Ans. He was a blind deity, endowed with p

air, and upon the water. Hodur. Ques. Who was Hodur? Ans. He was a blind deity, endowed with prodigious strength.

dur? Ans. He was a blind deity, endowed with prodigious strength. He was mild and benevolent, but certain terrible predict

ble predictions concerning him inspired such terror in Asgard that it was not lawful for any god to pronounce his name. Hod

realis,” or “Northern Lights.” Loki and his Progeny. Ques. Who was Loki? Ans. Loki was an evil deity, the contriver

Lights.” Loki and his Progeny. Ques. Who was Loki? Ans. Loki was an evil deity, the contriver of all fraud and mis

. Loki was an evil deity, the contriver of all fraud and mischief. He was very handsome, but of fickle and malicious temper

at, holding his tail in his mouth, he encircled the whole world. Hela was cast into Niffleheim, where she receives as her s

, the mountain spirits fashioned a chain which he could not break. It was fabricated of the roots of stones, the noise made

ally absurd and imaginary material. Baldur the Good. Ques. Who was Baldur? Ans. He was the son of Odin, good and ex

nary material. Baldur the Good. Ques. Who was Baldur? Ans. He was the son of Odin, good and exceedingly beautiful.

dur? Ans. He was the son of Odin, good and exceedingly beautiful. He was tormented by terrible dreams, indicating that his

utiful. He was tormented by terrible dreams, indicating that his life was in peril. He told these things to the assembled g

th throwing sticks, stones and all manner of weapons at the hero, who was not harmed by anything. Loki, with his usual mali

he hero, who was not harmed by anything. Loki, with his usual malice, was determined on Baldur’s death, but did not know ex

r. “Aye,” said Frigga; “all things have sworn, save a mistletoe which was growing on a mountain side, and which I thought t

bough among the sticks which they were casting in sport at Baldur. It was thrown with the rest, and Baldur fell to the grou

discerned in the gloom. On the tenth, he came to a dark river, which was spanned by a bridge of gold; this was the entranc

he came to a dark river, which was spanned by a bridge of gold; this was the entrance into Hell, and Hermod rode over it f

l wail With dry tears Baldur’s bale-fire. Let Hela keep her own.” It was strongly suspected that this hag was no other tha

ire. Let Hela keep her own.” It was strongly suspected that this hag was no other than Loki himself, who never ceased to w

imself, who never ceased to work evil among gods and men. Thus Baldur was prevented from coming back to Asgard. Funeral o

vented from coming back to Asgard. Funeral of Baldur. Ques. How was the hero buried? Ans. Baldur’s body was borne to

ral of Baldur. Ques. How was the hero buried? Ans. Baldur’s body was borne to the sea-shore, and placed upon a funeral

body was borne to the sea-shore, and placed upon a funeral pile which was built of his own ship, the largest in the world.

Baldur saw the funeral pile prepared, she died of grief, and her body was consumed with that of her husband. Loki’s Puni

lf at one time into a salmon, and hid among the stones of a brook. He was taken, however, by Thor, who caught him by the ta

d that part remarkably thin. Being restored to his natural form, Loki was bound with chains in a gloomy cavern. A serpent w

atural form, Loki was bound with chains in a gloomy cavern. A serpent was suspended over his head, whose venom falls upon h

light, and were kindly disposed to mankind. The country of the Elves was called Alfheim, and was the domain of Freyr, the

disposed to mankind. The country of the Elves was called Alfheim, and was the domain of Freyr, the god of the sun, in whose

the Gnomes were Thor’s hammer, and the ship Skidbladnir. This vessel was so wonderfully wrought, that while it was large e

ip Skidbladnir. This vessel was so wonderfully wrought, that while it was large enough to carry all the deities with their

in the shape of little sticks, either single or in groups. Divination was anciently practiced among the northern nations by

formed, the priests predicted future events. When alphabetic writing was introduced, the letters naturally took the form o

epitaphs on tombstones. Ragnarok, the Twilight of the Gods. It was a firm belief of the northern nations, that a tim

their own superstitions. Tuisco (sometimes written Tuesco or Tuisto) was worshipped by the Saxons as the god of war. The t

h the Hindoos, the form of metempsychosis. The religion of the Druids was farther characterized by the use of circular temp

the Roman Jupiter, or the Zeus of the Greeks, Esus had no parentage; was subject to no fate; he was free and self-existent

Zeus of the Greeks, Esus had no parentage; was subject to no fate; he was free and self-existent, and the creation of the w

no fate; he was free and self-existent, and the creation of the world was his own voluntary act. The Druids taught that exc

tened ideas, they reverenced many other divinities. The Assyrian Baal was worshipped among the Celts as Bel or Belen. As he

im.” It is generally supposed that the temple alluded to by Diodorus, was the Druidical circle of Stonehenge, of which we s

dical circle of Stonehenge, of which we shall speak later. Ques. Who was Teutates [Teu′tates] ? Ans. This name is thought

ht to be derived from “Tut-tat,” signifying “parent of men.” This god was much honored by the Gauls, who attributed to him

ences of the world.” In his more beneficent character, the name Gwyon was often given to this divinity. He resembles, both

ies of inferior rank, were worshipped in Gaul and Germany. Ques. How was the Druid priesthood divided? Ans. Into three or

ns of their race, and the great actions of their heroes. No sacrifice was duly offered without their sacred chant; they enc

eived him on his return with notes of triumph. To live in heroic song was the aspiration of every Celtic warrior, and to th

piration of every Celtic warrior, and to the coward or traitor, there was no penalty so terrible as the denunciation of the

no penalty so terrible as the denunciation of the sacred bards. Music was the only gentle art known to the rude tribes of G

e more susceptible to its influence. The character of these minstrels was peculiarly sacred in their eyes, on account of th

mmitted to writing, and a long and painful course of oral instruction was necessary before a candidate could be admitted to

his place in this influential class. According to Cæsar, twenty years was the ordinary novitiate required. The bards of Gau

tion with their observations of the celestial bodies. The healing art was also practised by the Druids. The effect of their

ng art was also practised by the Druids. The effect of their remedies was not, however, attributed to any natural cause, bu

ich they were gathered. The mistletoe, when found growing on the oak, was esteemed particularly sacred; it was an antidote

, when found growing on the oak, was esteemed particularly sacred; it was an antidote against poison, a remedy in all disea

uary or March, on the sixth day of the moon. As soon as the mistletoe was found growing on the no less sacred oak, the Drui

heifers were instantly offered in sacrifice, and the rest of the day was spent in rejoicing. In like manner, the samolus,

he vervain and other plants had also their distinct ceremonial. Amber was valued for certain mysterious properties; it was

ct ceremonial. Amber was valued for certain mysterious properties; it was manufactured into beads by the Druids, and these

refore, that they received it from the early Greek colonists. Writing was employed for ordinary affairs, whether public or

irs, whether public or private, but the mystic learning of the Druids was handed down by oral tradition only. The few inscr

the people, and had the right of deciding in all controversies. There was no appeal from their sentence, and those who vent

red to resist were excommunicated and outlawed. The college of Druids was governed by a chief or Arch-druid, chosen by vote

doned themselves to the wildest transports of frenzy. A peculiar rite was practised by the Druidesses who resided in an isl

umber should let fall the least part of the sacred material, her fate was sealed. She was torn to pieces by her companions,

fall the least part of the sacred material, her fate was sealed. She was torn to pieces by her companions, amid paroxysms

rhaps, the highest religious authority among the ancient Gauls. There was a class of Druidesses in Gaul and Germany, who, i

ccording as the blood should flow more or less rapidly. This ceremony was repeated with other victims until the augury was

pidly. This ceremony was repeated with other victims until the augury was deemed decisive. The superstitions with regard to

ators of this sacrilege; they were put to death, and a perpetual fine was imposed on the province of Leinster. Ques. What

of the Gauls, there were no infernal regions, and consequently, there was no Pluto. The soul passed into another body, and

s no Pluto. The soul passed into another body, and the transmigration was happy, or the contrary, as the actions performed

te of existence had been good or evil. According to the Druids, death was but the central point of a long life. Ques. What

e Druids, death was but the central point of a long life. Ques. What was the usual mode of sacrifice? Ans. Victims offere

Druids? Ans. The Tauric festival, which has been already mentioned, was the most ancient, dating from the time of the Cha

points in the sun’s annual course. Wherever Druidism prevailed, there was in the centre of each great district or canton, a

ton, a perpetual fire in honor of Baal. On the feast of the god, this was extinguished, and again lighted, after which all

oughout the country were rekindled from this sacred source. This rite was observed with particular solemnity in Ireland. Th

while the Druids performed their nocturnal rites. At length the fire was rekindled; torches lighted at the sacred flame we

ed at the sacred flame were passed from hand to hand, and the country was soon illuminated by the Baal fires which blazed o

ires which blazed on every hill. The chief scene of these solemnities was Ouisneach, in the centre of the island, but the s

mnities was Ouisneach, in the centre of the island, but the same rite was performed in many other places. According to what

many other places. According to what seems an authentic tradition, it was during such a ceremony that St. Patrick obtained

uids in the presence of the king and chieftains assembled at Tara. It was Easter Eve, and the Saint, who must have been wel

his disciples to light the paschal fire at the moment when all around was plunged in darkness. The flame was seen at Tara,

fire at the moment when all around was plunged in darkness. The flame was seen at Tara, and the Druids called loudly for th

ers. They were seized and brought before the assembly, but the result was favorable to the missionaries, and from that day

What rites were observed on the first day of November? Ans. The day was consecrated to the Moon, (called in Ireland Samha

The day was consecrated to the Moon, (called in Ireland Samhain,) and was observed both in Gaul and in the British islands.

connected with its observance. Before the invasion of Cæsar, Britain was so little known to the ancient Gauls, as to be st

l. Ques. At what period may we fix the decline of Druidism? Ans. It was suppressed in Gaul by the Roman conquerors, who b

ut found a temporary refuge in the German forests and in Armorica. It was suppressed in Britain during the reign of Nero. T

eaching of St. Columba, the Apostle of the Highlands. This missionary was a native of Ireland, where Christianity had been

been explained? Ans. It is supposed that the religion of the Aztecs was derived from two distinct sources. The ancient To

dinate divinities? Ans. Huitzilopotchli, a sort of Mexican Mars, who was , in fact, the patron deity of the nation. His tem

were continually reeking with the blood of human victims. Ques. Who was Quetzalcoatl? Ans. The Aztecs, like many nations

e, the earth brought forth its fruits without care or labor: and such was the fertility of the soil that a single ear of co

bor: and such was the fertility of the soil that a single ear of corn was as much as a man could carry. The dyer’s art was

a single ear of corn was as much as a man could carry. The dyer’s art was not needed, for the cotton took, as it grew, the

e rarest flowers filled the air with perfume, and the melody of birds was heard in every grove. This happy state was not de

e, and the melody of birds was heard in every grove. This happy state was not destined to last; Quetzalcoatl incurred the a

last; Quetzalcoatl incurred the anger of one of the greater gods, and was obliged to abandon the country. He proceeded to t

nd sailed eastward towards the fabled land of Tlapallan. Quetzalcoatl was described by the Mexicans as tall, with a fair co

the future success of the Spaniards. It is evident that Quetzalcoatl was the name given by the Mexicans to some beneficent

haracteristic of the European race; and some have conjectured that he was indeed a native of the Eastern hemisphere, cast b

t; but the Aztec paradise, like the Elysium of the Greeks and Romans, was reserved for their warriors and heroes. In this c

he blossoms and odors of its sacred groves. Ques. What peculiar rite was practised by the Aztecs in the naming of their ch

y implored the Lord, that the holy drops might wash away the sin that was given to it before the foundation of the world, s

the Aztecs bury their dead? Ans. Immediately after death, the corpse was clothed in certain sacred habiliments, and strewe

as a defence against the dangers of the unknown road which the spirit was about to travel. The body was then burned, and th

rs of the unknown road which the spirit was about to travel. The body was then burned, and the ashes, carefully collected i

emblance to the funeral rites of the ancient Greeks and Romans. There was , however, this distinction, that although the lat

punished with extreme rigor; graver offences, with death. Ques. How was this numerous priesthood maintained? Ans. A cert

this numerous priesthood maintained? Ans. A certain quantity of land was annexed to each temple, and the priests were furt

re allowed to marry. The law prescribed that any surplus, beyond what was actually required for their support, should be di

ent with the cruelties practised in their public worship. Ques. What was the form of the Mexican temples? Ans. They were

ed in three or four stories, each smaller than that below. At the top was a broad area, in which stood one or more towers,

treets were brilliantly lighted even on the darkest night. The ascent was made, in some cases, by a stairway which led dire

up the centre of the western face of the pyramid. More generally, it was so arranged, that the religious processions were

een built before the Aztecs conquered Anahuac, as that part of Mexico was formerly named. Ques. What sacrifices were offer

evidently of Toltec origin; the dreadful practice of human sacrifice was introduced by the Aztec conquerors, whose wars we

calculated at twenty thousand, which is the lowest estimate given. It was customary to preserve the skulls of the victims i

of the priests. The feast of Tezcatlipoca, one of the chief gods, who was called the “Soul of the World,” was celebrated by

ipoca, one of the chief gods, who was called the “Soul of the World,” was celebrated by the sacrifice of a single victim, w

efore the sacrifice, a young man, distinguished for grace and beauty, was chosen from among the captives. He was splendidly

nguished for grace and beauty, was chosen from among the captives. He was splendidly attired, surrounded by every luxury, a

captives. He was splendidly attired, surrounded by every luxury, and was received everywhere with the homage due to the di

d was received everywhere with the homage due to the divinity whom he was supposed to represent. When the fatal day arrived

, who had been trained to perform his part with calmness and dignity, was conducted to the temple. As the melancholy proces

s, and stood unadorned before the stone of sacrifice. The bloody work was soon accomplished, and the yet palpitating heart

rk was soon accomplished, and the yet palpitating heart of the victim was thrown at the feet of the idol. The career of thi

the idol. The career of this captive, and his progress to the altar, was intended as an allegorical representation of huma

ues. What name did the Peruvians give to this Supreme deity? Ans. He was adored under the different names of Pachacamac an

did not originate with the Peruvians. Their entire system of religion was directed to the adoration of the heavenly bodies.

eligion was directed to the adoration of the heavenly bodies. The Sun was adored as the father of the world, the source of

ed as the father of the world, the source of light and life. The Moon was honored as his sister-wife, and the Stars were wo

ere worshipped as her heavenly train. The planet known to us as Venus was an especial object of devotion. The Peruvians nam

e page of the Sun, whom he attends in his rising and setting. The Sun was honored also as the father of the royal Inca race

vians. Ques. Relate this legend. Ans. According to tradition, there was a time when the ancient races of the continent we

ere plunged in the most complete barbarism: the will of the strongest was the only law; war was their pastime; they worship

t complete barbarism: the will of the strongest was the only law; war was their pastime; they worshipped the vilest objects

the benefits conferred by the messengers of heaven: a large community was gradually formed, and the city of Cuzco was found

heaven: a large community was gradually formed, and the city of Cuzco was founded in the valley. The monarchy thus formed,

he city of Cuzco was founded in the valley. The monarchy thus formed, was governed by the Incas, who claimed descent from M

Oello, and always styled themselves, Children of the Sun. Ques. What was the origin of this legend? Ans. It was evidently

ldren of the Sun. Ques. What was the origin of this legend? Ans. It was evidently a fiction, invented at a later period t

extensive ruins on the shores of Lake Titicaca prove that this region was inhabited by a powerful, and comparatively civili

e preserved from the universal destruction; and from these, the earth was re-peopled. The Peruvians maintained that white a

lebrated temples of the Sun? Ans. The most ancient of these edifices was in the island of Titicaca, whence the founders of

y were said to have proceeded. Everything belonging to this sanctuary was held in particular veneration. Even the fields of

mple were supposed to partake of its sanctity; and the yearly produce was distributed in small quantities through all the p

sacred grain. Ques. Describe the temple of Cuzco. Ans. This edifice was constructed of stone, and covered a large extent

saw it in its glory, as being literally a mine of precious metals. It was called by the natives Coricancha, or “Place of Go

ed by the natives Coricancha, or “Place of Gold.” On the western wall was the image of the Sun; this was a massive golden p

r “Place of Gold.” On the western wall was the image of the Sun; this was a massive golden plate, of enormous dimensions, o

un; this was a massive golden plate, of enormous dimensions, on which was emblazoned a human countenance darting forth rays

zoned a human countenance darting forth rays on every side. The image was richly ornamented with emeralds and precious ston

t of the temple glowed with the precious metal, and even the exterior was encompassed with a broad frieze of gold set in th

he solid stone-work of the edifice. Adjoining the principal structure was the temple of the Moon. Her effigy was of silver,

oining the principal structure was the temple of the Moon. Her effigy was of silver, but otherwise resembled that of the Su

as of silver, but otherwise resembled that of the Sun. The same metal was used in all the decorations of the building, as r

s pale lustre the milder radiance of the beautiful planet. One chapel was dedicated to the stars, another to thunder and li

other to thunder and lightning, and a third to the rainbow. This last was decorated with a many-colored arch of resplendent

presented in precious ore, and the classic fable of the golden fleece was realized in the llama of this fairy garden. Ques

Coricancha. The temples of Peru were many and magnificent; but Cuzco was to the Inca noble what Mecca is to the devout fol

nd therefore children of the Sun. The High Priest, called Villac Vmu, was second only to the Inca, and was chosen from amon

The High Priest, called Villac Vmu, was second only to the Inca, and was chosen from among his brothers or nearest kindred

, such as a coronation, a victory, etc. A child or a beautiful maiden was then selected as the victim; but the cannibal rep

quinoxes were celebrated by four great festivals; but the most solemn was the feast of Raymi, held at the period of their s

to the Virgins of the Sun. At the festival of Raymi, the sacred fire was obtained, as under the reign of Numa, by means of

a focus of sufficient intensity to ignite dried cotton. When the sky was overcast, which was esteemed a very bad omen, the

nt intensity to ignite dried cotton. When the sky was overcast, which was esteemed a very bad omen, the fire was obtained b

en the sky was overcast, which was esteemed a very bad omen, the fire was obtained by means of friction. This fire was watc

very bad omen, the fire was obtained by means of friction. This fire was watched by the Virgins of the Sun. Ques. Who wer

nhappy maiden who ventured to form in secret a less exalted alliance, was condemned to the cruel punishment decreed in like

unishment decreed in like circumstances against the Roman Vestal. She was buried alive; her accomplice was strangled, and t

tances against the Roman Vestal. She was buried alive; her accomplice was strangled, and the village to which he belonged w

e; her accomplice was strangled, and the village to which he belonged was razed to the ground and sowed with stones. Ques.

stones. Ques. How did the Peruvians bury their dead? Ans. The body was embalmed, not, as in Egypt, with gums and spices,

caca — Varro. Æschylus, The earliest of the Greek dramatists, was born at Eleusis in Attica, 525 B. C. He distingui

Platæa. Æschylus has been called the father of Grecian tragedy, as he was the first to give rules to the dialogue, and defi

hirteen of which he obtained the victory over all his competitors. He was at length defeated by a younger rival, Sophocles.

e mortification felt by the poet on this occasion. Others say that he was accused as guilty of profanity in exhibiting on t

the Eleusinian mysteries. The people were about to stone him, when he was saved by the presence of mind of his brother Amin

expose the stump of the arm he had lost at Salamis. The silent appeal was not without its effect on the impulsive Athenians

l was not without its effect on the impulsive Athenians, and Æschylus was pardoned. He deemed it prudent, however, to retir

ardoned. He deemed it prudent, however, to retire to Sicily, where he was kindly entertained by Hiero. His death is said to

very extraordinary manner. As he slept in the fields, an eagle which was flying over him with a tortoise in his claws, mis

rd dropped the tortoise for the purpose of breaking the shell, and he was killed by the blow, thus verifying a prophecy tha

ion we possess with regard to the inhabitants of ancient Gaul. Cæsar was not surpassed, even by the writers of the Augusta

of Catiline, and rendered many other signal services to his country, was basely murdered by the order of the second Triumv

. Diodorus, surnamed Siculus, from Sicily, his birth-place. He was a celebrated historian, contemporary with Julius

thirty years to this great work. Euripides, a Greek tragedian, was born in 480 B. C., on the day rendered famous by

o Athens for interment. This request Archelaûs refused, and Euripides was buried with much pomp at Pella, in Macedon. This

ey were. Herodotus, who has been called the Father of History, was born at Halicarnassus, 484 B. C. He spent many ye

peaks from his own observation, or relates events of which the memory was still recent, he may be relied upon as an accurat

nd persuasive, and it is believed that it had the desired effect, and was the immediate cause of the edict issued by Antoni

logy to Marcus Aurelius, but with far different success. This Emperor was too much under the influence of the heathen philo

ear 161 A. D. Juvenal . A Roman poet of the first century. He was born in the reign of Caligula, but the exact date

s of his day, not sparing the emperors themselves where their conduct was deserving of reproach. Hadrian believed that one

ving of reproach. Hadrian believed that one of the satires of Juvenal was directed against himself; he had not the magnanim

self; he had not the magnanimity to overlook the offence, and Juvenal was exiled to Lybia, where he died soon after. Mæ

. Mæcenas . Minister and favorite of the Emperor Augustus. He was distinguished for the wisdom of his counsels, and

re abilities as a statesman. Although himself an indifferent poet, he was still a patron of literature and literary men; Vi

iters of the Augustan age, were among his most intimate friends. Such was the care with which Mæcenas sought out and reward

sed to denote a generous patron. Admirable in his public capacity, he was in private life as indolent and luxurious as the

ue of human greatness. His constitution, which had never been strong, was weakened by excess. He was tormented by constant

constitution, which had never been strong, was weakened by excess. He was tormented by constant wakefulness, and this great

ds, distant music, all failed to produce the desired effect. A stream was , at length, conducted through a garden adjoining

ded the coast of Italy. The application of Pliny to literary pursuits was uninterrupted. He rose to his studies at two in t

secretary always sat in his chariot. We are told that in winter Pliny was careful to provide him with a warm glove of pecul

is investigations, regardless of the remonstrances of his friends, he was suffocated by the noxious vapors of the volcano.

nds, he was suffocated by the noxious vapors of the volcano. His body was discovered three days later, entirely uninjured,

care of his uncle he made such rapid progress in literature, that he was generally accounted one of the most learned men o

n. After filling the high offices of quæstor, consul and augur, Pliny was appointed by Trajan governor of Bithynia. It was

sul and augur, Pliny was appointed by Trajan governor of Bithynia. It was from this country that he wrote his celebrated le

ss of Christianity, and bearing testimony to the purity of life which was the distinguishing mark of its professors. Pliny

at Marathon, the elegy of Simonides took the prize, although Æschylus was one of the competitors. The compositions of the g

edian were deficient in the tenderness and pathos for which Simonides was particularly distinguished. The lament of Danaë,

but these are sufficient to prove that his reputation in this respect was well deserved. Simonides brought the epigram to

ved. Simonides brought the epigram to all the perfection of which it was capable. The most celebrated of his epitaphs is t

cedæmonians that we lie here in obedience to their laws.” Simonides was held in high esteem at the court of Hiero, king o

e he felt his inability to treat it in an adequate manner. Simonides was the master of Pindar; he lived to a very advanced

y. In this connection, we have a story which would show that the poet was not believed to have forfeited the favor of the g

avarice. While residing at the court of Scopas, king of Thessaly, he was engaged by that prince to compose a poem in his h

ve his reward, the king gave him half the appointed sum, saying, that was for his part; for what related to Castor and Poll

tly to speak with him. Simonides went out, but found no one; while he was looking to see which way the strangers had gone,

r him — of their snow white steeds and shining armor, he knew that it was indeed Castor and Pollux who had acknowledged, in

e dramatic excellence, he is generally considered the first. The poet was only sixteen when he was selected to lead the cho

is generally considered the first. The poet was only sixteen when he was selected to lead the chorus of Athenian youths wh

ise, and a rare excellence in the arts of poetry and music, Sophocles was considered by his admiring countrymen as an espec

the ancient sage that no man is to be accounted happy before he dies, was verified in the case of this great poet. If the m

s verified in the case of this great poet. If the morning of his life was bright in the lustre of national glory and person

ight in the lustre of national glory and personal renown, the evening was clouded by the misfortunes of his country, and do

, but without gaining much distinction, in the Peloponnesian war, and was a witness of the miseries which that fatal strugg

re the defeat of Ægos-potamos completed the misfortunes of Athens. He was deeply lamented by the Athenians, who seem to for

the pursuit of knowledge, but afterwards by the order of Augustus. He was already advanced in life when he compiled his gre

gard to the manners and customs of the nations he had visited. Little was known at that time of the extent and form of eart

and form of earth. Strabo imagined that the entire habitable portion was included between two meridians, one of which pass

icated to Cicero, an intimate friend of the author. The life of Varro was eventful: he was favored by Julius Cæsar, proscri

an intimate friend of the author. The life of Varro was eventful: he was favored by Julius Cæsar, proscribed by Antony, an

stian piety will lose nothing by the assumption that natural religion was an elementary principle of human feelings and opi

Adam, Noah and Abraham. Patriarch signifies a father. As soon as Adam was created, God imparted to him the knowledge of him

ied. The first and second chapters of Genesis contain this fact. Adam was formed nearly six thousand years ago. Sixteen hun

ah his own character and will. Four hundred years after Noah, Abraham was also instructed how to serve God acceptably; and

the birth of Christ, Moses, more fully than any of his predecessors, was instructed in the nature of a holy worship. After

oncerning events which were to happen after they were foretold. Moses was a prophet when he foretold, “The Lord thy God wil

a prophet from the midst of thy brethren like unto me.” This prophet was our Saviour Jesus Christ, who came into the world

r Jesus Christ, who came into the world as Moses had predicted. Moses was succeeded by other prophets. Elisha, Isaiah, Jere

ctrine? To what nation did God particularly communicate himself? What was the religion of the rest of mankind? Were those t

he death of one till the lifetime of another of those holy men, there was time for men to forget the instructions of one, b

nd Abraham lived there were no letters or writings, and all knowledge was preserved by tradition. Tradition is an account

becomes a tradition in that family. By tradition the knowledge of God was preserved n the world till the time of Moses; the

he patriarchs concerning himself had been altered or corrupted, as it was told from one person to another. Wicked men parti

ruth certainly preserved at the present time? What is tradition? When was God’s will first recorded in writing? How did wic

ans and Egyptians, and it is probable that the religion of the Greeks was a mixture of Phœnician and Egyptian faith and wor

f earth, of the sea, and of hell. The principal of the celestial gods was Jupiter — the supreme divinity of paganism, the f

st ancient divinities of the Greeks were Heaven and Earth; the former was a god called Cœlus, and the latter a goddess name

n, concealed one of her sons, and had him secretly educated. This son was Jupiter. Neptune and Pluto, two other of Saturn’s

his brother’s sons, contrary to a promise which Saturn had made him, was permitted to live, he made war upon Saturn; conqu

her. Saturn, upon the usurpation of Jupiter, took refuge in Italy. He was kindly received by Janus, the king of the country

remembrance of the past. That part of Italy where Saturn took refuge, was called Latium, and lies along the Mediterranean.

ed Latium, and lies along the Mediterranean. One of its ancient kings was Latinus. The language spoken in this region, and

s. The language spoken in this region, and afterwards in Rome itself, was the Latin. Saturn was highly honoured in Latium,

in this region, and afterwards in Rome itself, was the Latin. Saturn was highly honoured in Latium, and became king of the

came king of the country. The hill, afterwards called the Capitoline, was named Saturninus from Saturn, and from him all It

other useful arts, and made them so happy that the time of his reign was called the Golden Age. Saturn is represented as a

esented as an old man, with a scythe in his hand. At Rome, a festival was annually celebrated in honour of Saturn. At first

his festival, called the Saturnalia, lasted but one day; its duration was afterwards extended to three, four, and five days

e, four, and five days in succession. During the Saturnalia, business was suspended at Rome, schools were shut up, and unbo

said, to ridicule their masters. Who were the parents of Saturn? Who was Saturn’s brother? What does Saturn signify? Who w

ho deposed Saturn? Where did Saturn take refuge? Where is Latium? How was Saturn regarded in Latium? How is Saturn represen

m? How was Saturn regarded in Latium? How is Saturn represented? What was the Saturnalia? Cybele. See plate, page 1

of Saturn, is sometimes called Ops, and sometimes Berecynthia. Cybele was regarded as the mother of the gods, and was thenc

times Berecynthia. Cybele was regarded as the mother of the gods, and was thence called Magna Mater — the Great Mother. Cyb

he gods, and was thence called Magna Mater — the Great Mother. Cybele was the first who fortified the walls of cities with

s, they are usually represented dancing and striking themselves. Who was Cybele, and how is she represented? Who were the

she represented? Who were the priests of Cybele? Vesta. Vesta was the daughter of Saturn and the goddess of fire. N

time of their consecration to the goddess lasted thirty years, and it was not till after this term that they were free from

intaining the sacred fire, which burned in honour of Vesta. This fire was renewed by the rays of the sun yearly, during the

s of March, or latter part of February. The preservation of this fire was considered as being so important, that when it ha

ppened to expire, all public spectacles were forbidden till the crime was punished. This event was the subject of general m

lic spectacles were forbidden till the crime was punished. This event was the subject of general mourning, and considered a

er from the dreadful death of being buried alive. The temple of Vesta was said to contain, besides the consecrated fire, th

from the destruction of Troy, and brought to Italy. The vestal’s vow was , never to suffer the sacred fire to become extinc

red fire to become extinct, and never to associate with any man. Who was Vesta? Who were the vestals, and what was their d

ssociate with any man. Who was Vesta? Who were the vestals, and what was their discipline? Was the fire of Vesta’s temple

ed? To what punishment were the vestals exposed? Janus. Janus was a king of Italy, who received Saturn when he was

Janus. Janus was a king of Italy, who received Saturn when he was expelled from heaven by Jupiter. The true history

d from heaven by Jupiter. The true history of Saturn must be, that he was a wise man, who was driven from some little kingd

iter. The true history of Saturn must be, that he was a wise man, who was driven from some little kingdom by a successful u

who was driven from some little kingdom by a successful usurper, who was perhaps his son; and, as a fugitive prince, escap

perhaps his son; and, as a fugitive prince, escaping from injustice, was hospitably received by Janus. The people of It

nts of Crete, over which the usurper Jupiter acquired dominion. Janus was a patriotic king, one who wished to make his subj

ment, and acquired useful knowledge from him. Janus, from his wisdom, was regarded as a prophet, and was supposed to be as

edge from him. Janus, from his wisdom, was regarded as a prophet, and was supposed to be as well acquainted with the future

the future as the past. This double gift of looking before and after, was nothing more than the experience and foresight of

resight of a wise man; nevertheless, ignorant people supposed that he was a supernatural being, and therefore, after his de

d that he was a supernatural being, and therefore, after his death he was deified. It is probable, that Janus regulated the

divisions of time among his subjects, as the first month of the year was called in honour of him, January. In some of his

n honour of him, January. In some of his temples, the statue of Janus was surrounded by twelve altars, which denoted the tw

by twelve altars, which denoted the twelve months of the year. Janus was worshipped at Rome as the god of the year, as the

the patron of new undertakings, and the arbiter of peace and war. He was represented with two faces. These two faces indic

ast and future; the double attribute of peace-maker and war-maker. He was supposed to open and shut the gates of heaven. Th

. The Roman king Numa instituted a festival in honour of Janus, which was celebrated at Rome on the first day of the year.

his day, but they commenced after it: for on the day itself, business was suspended, quarrels were forgotten, mutual presen

ded, quarrels were forgotten, mutual presents were made, and the time was spent in mirth and friendly intercourse. This agr

three times by the emperor Augustus. During the last time our Saviour was born in Judea, then a Roman province. The circums

orable peace, has often been noticed as a remarkable occurrence. Who was Janus, and what is the meaning of the fable of Sa

turn? Why did Janus admit Saturn to be the partner of his throne? How was Janus regarded by his subjects? Why were the imag

Why were the images of Janus sometimes surrounded twelve altars? How was Janus worshipped at Rome? How were the attributes

l in honour of him? How did the Romans celebrate New-year’s day? When was the temple of Janus shut? What has been particula

ng the birth of Christ? Jupiter. See plate, page 21. Jupiter was the supreme god of the heathens, the governor of

aid to have been educated in the island of Crete. Very solemn worship was paid to Jupiter. The animals offered to him in sa

n. Jove’s peculiar habitation, and that of the other celestial gods, was supposed to be Olympus, a mountain of Greece; tho

ods and now the sounding shores. Æneid, Pitt's translation. Rhodope was a mountain of Thrace, Athos of Upper Greece, and

n modern Turkey, north of Macedonia. Just, wise, and powerful as Jove was represented by the heathens, he had not the infin

piter’s attributes? How did Jupiter divide the universe? What worship was paid to Jupiter? How is Jupiter represented? How

er represented? How does Homer describe the terrors of Jupiter? Where was Jove’s peculiar habitation supposed to be? How do

ter had sworn by the Styx to grant her whatever she should ask, so he was forced to keep his word, and he entered her apart

he instant death or Semele. To Leda, he appeared as a swan. This lady was the wife of Tyndarus, king of Sparta; she was the

ed as a swan. This lady was the wife of Tyndarus, king of Sparta; she was the mother of four children celebrated in poetic

d in poetic history. Helen and Clytemnestra, Castor and Pollux. Helen was the beautiful wife of Menelaus, king of Sparta, a

was the beautiful wife of Menelaus, king of Sparta, and Clytemnestra was married to Agamemnon, king of Mycenæ, who was bro

parta, and Clytemnestra was married to Agamemnon, king of Mycenæ, who was brother to Menelaus. One of the most remarkable a

brother to Menelaus. One of the most remarkable adventures of Jupiter was the rape of Europa. Rape means bearing off in has

piter was the rape of Europa. Rape means bearing off in haste. Europa was a beautiful virgin, the daughter of Agenor, king

ntle dog; when he lay down at her feet she sprang upon his back. This was what the wily god desired, and he immediately wit

or Africa. Europa afterwards married the king of Crete, and her name was given to one quarter of the world. The following

ous statue of Jupiter at present hi existence? Apollo. Apollo was the son of Jupiter and Latona. He has been called

Latona. He has been called “the god of life, and light, and arts” He was the cause of disease, and the restorer of health.

the restorer of health. He is often called Phœbus the god of day; and was supposed to be the patron of poetry, music, and t

supposed to be the patron of poetry, music, and the fine arts. Apollo was perfectly beautiful. He taught the arts of divina

o is sometimes represented with rays around his head, to show that he was the dispenser of light, and is often mentioned as

wn in a car, commonly called the chariot of the sun. Apollo’s chariot was drawn by horses which no hand but his own could c

of the heathen deities. Apollo had a son named Esculapius. Esculapius was the best physician of antiquitv; he prolonged the

f Jupiter. The Cyclops were servants and favourites of Jupiter, so he was angry at Apollo for destroying them, and expelled

one upon which he laid his lyre became so melodious, that whenever it was struck, it sounded like that instrument. Having u

Among the stories which relate to Apollo, is that of Phaeton. Phaeton was the son of Apollo and the nymph Clymene. Epaphus,

Clymene. Epaphus, a son of Jupiter, one day told Phaeton that Apollo was not his father. The youth, distressed at this, re

e world on fire, had not Jupiter struck Phaeton into the Po, where he was drowned. His sisters, the Heliades, mourned for h

ory is told by Ovid, the Roman poet. Apollo’s most famous achievement was the destruction of the serpent Python. This serpe

s achievement was the destruction of the serpent Python. This serpent was probably only a pestilential disease which he cur

used to exhibit the destruction of the Python. A priestess of Apollo was called the Pythia in honour of the god’s achievem

was called the Pythia in honour of the god’s achievement. The laurel was sacred to Apollo. It was bestowed upon poets as a

honour of the god’s achievement. The laurel was sacred to Apollo. It was bestowed upon poets as a reward for their excelle

s a reward for their excellence. The most famous oracle of the Greeks was that of Apollo at Delphi, in Phocis. An oracle si

le whether it Was best or not to commence any undertaking. The Pythia was a poor old woman who was intoxicated or disturbed

not to commence any undertaking. The Pythia was a poor old woman who was intoxicated or disturbed in mind by the respirati

e of a court of the palace, which commands a very fine prospect. Who was Apollo? How is Apollo represented? Are immoral ac

Jupiter expel Apollo from heaven? With whom did Apollo dwell while he was on earth? Did Apollo love Hyacinthus? What rash p

ton? What happened to Phaeton? What were Apollo’s achievements? Where was the most famous oracle of Apollo? Who was the Pyt

pollo’s achievements? Where was the most famous oracle of Apollo? Who was the Pythia? What is the most admired statue of Ap

nt on the rolling deep. Homer's Odyssey. — Pope. The Greek Mercury was the son of Jupiter and Maia. He was the god of el

ssey. — Pope. The Greek Mercury was the son of Jupiter and Maia. He was the god of eloquence, of arts and sciences, and t

of eloquence, of arts and sciences, and the messenger of Jupiter. He was the inventor of weights and measures, and conduct

is sandals and to his cap, and in his hand he held the caduceus. This was a wand entwined with two serpents. The caduceus h

wakefulness, or to cause sleep. Mercury, besides his higher offices, was the god of thieves, of merchants, and of highways

to point out the way to travellers. The mythologists say that Mercury was born at Mount Cyllene in Arcadia, and that in his

cury was born at Mount Cyllene in Arcadia, and that in his infancy he was intrusted to the care of the Seasons. His cunning

lity and beauty by them than by any other people. The Hermes of Egypt was probably some philosopher, who was distinguished

other people. The Hermes of Egypt was probably some philosopher, who was distinguished by various knowledge and inventive

erce, of geometry, of astronomy, and of hieroglyphic characters. Who was the Greek Mercury? How was Mercury represented? W

nomy, and of hieroglyphic characters. Who was the Greek Mercury? How was Mercury represented? Where was Mercury born? What

cters. Who was the Greek Mercury? How was Mercury represented? Where was Mercury born? What were his gifts? Who was the He

Mercury represented? Where was Mercury born? What were his gifts? Who was the Hermes of Egypt? What inventions do the Egypt

What inventions do the Egyptians impute to Hermes? Mars. Mars was the god of war. He was commonly depicted by his w

Egyptians impute to Hermes? Mars. Mars was the god of war. He was commonly depicted by his worshippers as a warrior

in; the cock, for his wakefulness, were all consecrated to a god, who was himself without pity, forbearance, or fear. Men w

fear of his power. They could not feel love and trust in a being who was neither just nor benevolent. Mars was dreaded upo

l love and trust in a being who was neither just nor benevolent. Mars was dreaded upon earth, and detested in heaven. In th

stitious reverence by the Romans. In the early ages of Rome, a shield was found, of a shape which was not known among the R

mans. In the early ages of Rome, a shield was found, of a shape which was not known among the Romans. An oracle was consult

was found, of a shape which was not known among the Romans. An oracle was consulted by the person who found the shield, in

om being lost, caused several to be made, so exactly like it, that it was almost impossible to distinguish the original. Th

that it was almost impossible to distinguish the original. Their form was oval. Their number was twelve; as was that of the

ssible to distinguish the original. Their form was oval. Their number was twelve; as was that of the priests, or Salii, at

nguish the original. Their form was oval. Their number was twelve; as was that of the priests, or Salii, at first, though a

and frantic gestures, drove them through the field of battle. Victory was also an attendant of Mars. She had several temple

Rome. Games were instituted in honour of Victory. A figure of Victory was often placed upon the car of a Roman conqueror wh

pon the car of a Roman conqueror when he appeared in triumph. Victory was then represented as flying, holding a crown, a br

ented as flying, holding a crown, a branch of palm, and a globe. Who was Mars? Who attended Mars, and what animals were sa

was Mars? Who attended Mars, and what animals were sacred to him? How was he regarded in heaven and on earth? What nation c

eaven and on earth? What nation chiefly honoured Mars? What reverence was attached to the Ancilia? What king instituted the

ence was attached to the Ancilia? What king instituted the Salii? Who was Bellona? How was Victory represented? Vulcan.

to the Ancilia? What king instituted the Salii? Who was Bellona? How was Victory represented? Vulcan. See plate, p

was Victory represented? Vulcan. See plate, page 37. Vulcan was the god of fire, of smiths, and of metals, and th

manufacturing them to mankind; but Vulcan, according to the mythology was skilled in this mechanic operation, and was, in f

ccording to the mythology was skilled in this mechanic operation, and was , in fact, a labourer at the anvil. “Obscure in s

the book of Genesis it is said that Tubalcain, one of the first men, was “an instructer of every artificer in brass and ir

cribed either as Prometheus, or as Vulcan, but the fable says, Vulcan was the son of Jupiter and Juno. Vulcan is sometimes

ed him out of heaven, and that he fell into the island of Lemnos, and was lamed by his fall. At Lemnos he set up his forges

of Lipari, near Sicily, where he forged Jupiter’s thunderbolts. Nor was his name unheard or unadorned In ancient Greece:

lling star, On Lemnos, the Ægean isle. Paradise Lost, Book I. Venus was the beautiful wife of Vulcan. ——— when of old, a

and Rome, festivals were kept to his honour. Upon Mount Etna a temple was dedicated to him, which was guarded by dogs, whos

t to his honour. Upon Mount Etna a temple was dedicated to him, which was guarded by dogs, whose sense of smelling was said

dedicated to him, which was guarded by dogs, whose sense of smelling was said to be so exquisite, as to enable them to dis

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

philosophy made this discovery, ignorant people fancied that thunder was an expression of the divine anger, and that it wa

ncied that thunder was an expression of the divine anger, and that it was produced by the bolts of Jupiter. These bolts wer

erbolt had fallen, enclosed the place, and held it in reverence. Who was Vulcan, and of what use is the manufacture of met

pose were the first workers of metals? Whom say the Hebrew scriptures was the first metallurgist? What is the history of Vu

Venus described as visiting Vulcan? What did Vulcan manufacture? What was the worship of Vulcan? How was Vulcan honoured at

can? What did Vulcan manufacture? What was the worship of Vulcan? How was Vulcan honoured at Rome? The Cyclops. The

ps? Pandora. The name of Pandora signifies all gifts. Pandora was originally a beautiful female image, formed by th

her eloquence, and Apollo, music. With these accomplishments Pandora was a perfect woman, and she was sent by Jupiter in a

usic. With these accomplishments Pandora was a perfect woman, and she was sent by Jupiter in a box to Prometheus. Jupiter,

she was sent by Jupiter in a box to Prometheus. Jupiter, it is said, was angry at Prometheus for the manifold blessings wh

upon Prometheus, Jupiter sent him the gifted Pandora for a bride. She was enclosed in a box with diseases, war, pestilence,

pe of relief and of better days. Prometheus. Thy godlike crime was to be kind, To render with thy precepts less The

tchedness, And strengthen man with his own mind. Byron. Prometheus was , doubtless, one of the first civilizers of mankin

essfully than other men, he is said to have stolen it from heaven. He was accused of having taken this fire from the chario

glass; and this, ignorant persons considered stealing from heaven. It was asserted that he formed statues, into whom he tra

and Vulcan to seize and chain him to mount Caucasus. There a vulture was commanded to prey upon his liver, which was repro

Caucasus. There a vulture was commanded to prey upon his liver, which was reproduced so soon as it was devoured, so that he

commanded to prey upon his liver, which was reproduced so soon as it was devoured, so that he was doomed to eternal suffer

is liver, which was reproduced so soon as it was devoured, so that he was doomed to eternal sufferings. Hercules killed the

the force and strength of powerful tyrants. The discoverer of America was sent to Spain in chains, after having given a new

iven a new hemisphere to Europe: and Galileo, the Italian astronomer, was put in prison because he demonstrated the motions

Prometheus receive Pandora? What is the meaning of this allegory? Who was Prometheus? Of what was Prometheus accused? How d

ra? What is the meaning of this allegory? Who was Prometheus? Of what was Prometheus accused? How did Jupiter persecute Pro

was Prometheus accused? How did Jupiter persecute Prometheus, and who was his deliverer? Is it natural to suppose that a go

amples? Juno. See plate, page 49. Juno, the queen of heaven, was the sister and wife of Jupiter. Though a celestia

wife of Jupiter. Though a celestial goddess, the mythologists say she was born upon earth. It is disputed whether Juno’s bi

ay she was born upon earth. It is disputed whether Juno’s birth-place was the island of Samos or the city of Argos. At the

was the island of Samos or the city of Argos. At the latter place she was accounted a tutelary or guardian goddess. At Rome

place she was accounted a tutelary or guardian goddess. At Rome, Juno was worshipped in the earliest age of the city. Tatiu

the colleague of Romulus, instituted rites in her honour. At Rome she was called Juno Matrona, the matron or mother, and wa

onour. At Rome she was called Juno Matrona, the matron or mother, and was regarded with the highest veneration. Juno was ha

matron or mother, and was regarded with the highest veneration. Juno was haughty, vindictive, and jealous. She often quarr

, vindictive, and jealous. She often quarrelled with her husband, and was implacable in her anger. The ancients, however, r

ing in one hand a spindle, and in the other a sceptre. Her deportment was majestic, and her countenance severe, and a radia

ortment was majestic, and her countenance severe, and a radiant crown was on her head. Near her was commonly placed her fav

her countenance severe, and a radiant crown was on her head. Near her was commonly placed her favourite bird, the peacock.

nbow is the symbol of peace, God’s peace with the guilty world, which was punished and pardoned. When the first bow was set

the guilty world, which was punished and pardoned. When the first bow was set in the cloud this gracious promise was uttere

rdoned. When the first bow was set in the cloud this gracious promise was uttered, “henceforth, summer and winter, day and

dness, for they personified this meteor under the figure of Iris, who was the messenger of peace to the dying. Iris was a b

the figure of Iris, who was the messenger of peace to the dying. Iris was a beautiful female, the constant attendant of Jun

nt of Juno, and more particularly the messenger of that goddess. Iris was frequently employed by Juno to stir up strife amo

h her head encircled by a rainbow. The most benevolent office of Iris was to disengage the soul from the body, and she desc

this errand. Iris attended only dying persons of the female sex. Who was Juno? Was Juno worshipped at Rome? What was the c

s of the female sex. Who was Juno? Was Juno worshipped at Rome? What was the character of Juno? How is Juno represented? W

t Rome? What was the character of Juno? How is Juno represented? What was Juno’s prerogative? What was the promise of God o

r of Juno? How is Juno represented? What was Juno’s prerogative? What was the promise of God on the first appearance of the

at was the promise of God on the first appearance of the rainbow? Why was Iris represented as a divine messenger? Had Iris

fice than those of favour to mankind? Hebe and Ganymede. Hebe was the daughter of Jupiter and Juno. She was the god

Hebe and Ganymede. Hebe was the daughter of Jupiter and Juno. She was the goddess of youth, and had the power of impart

the ever-wakeful eyes of Jove. Iliad, Book II. The food of the gods was not supposed to be formed of the gross aliments o

s, Nor wine’s inflaming juice supplies their veins. Their sustenance was nectar and ambrosia. The former their dunk, and t

nd. Hebe presented nectar to Jupiter in a golden cup. Once, when Hebe was offering nectar to Jupiter, she fell. This carele

to Jupiter, she fell. This carelessness offended his majesty, and she was deprived of the honour of serving him. When Hebe

majesty, and she was deprived of the honour of serving him. When Hebe was dismissed, Ganymede was chosen to succeed her. Ga

rived of the honour of serving him. When Hebe was dismissed, Ganymede was chosen to succeed her. Ganymede was a prince of T

When Hebe was dismissed, Ganymede was chosen to succeed her. Ganymede was a prince of Troy. His occupation was the care of

chosen to succeed her. Ganymede was a prince of Troy. His occupation was the care of flocks on Mount Ida. He was exquisite

rince of Troy. His occupation was the care of flocks on Mount Ida. He was exquisitely beautiful, and an eagle carried him f

im from earth to heaven, where he poured out nectar for Jupiter. Who was Hebe? Were the heathen gods supposed to be spirit

ery part of the universe at once? Did the heathen deities sleep? What was the food of the gods? Why was Hebe dismissed by J

ce? Did the heathen deities sleep? What was the food of the gods? Why was Hebe dismissed by Jupiter? Who was Ganymede?

What was the food of the gods? Why was Hebe dismissed by Jupiter? Who was Ganymede? Minerva. See plate, page 55. M

iter? Who was Ganymede? Minerva. See plate, page 55. Minerva was the goddess of Wisdom. Wisdom is the knowledge of

possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or e

I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was . “When there were no depths I was brought forth;

om the beginning, or ever the earth was. “When there were no depths I was brought forth; when there were no fountains aboun

nding with water. Before the mountains were settled; before the hills was I brought forth: while as yet he had not made the

ghest part of the dust of the world. “When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the

s commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, and I was daily his delight, rejoicing al

n he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him.”

, and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him.” Minerva was the daughter of Jupiter. The poetic fiction conce

is doing so, Minerva instantly sprang forth, a goddess armed. Minerva was the tutelary, or guardian goddess of Athens. That

d. Minerva was the tutelary, or guardian goddess of Athens. That city was called by one of her names, Athenæ; its original

. That city was called by one of her names, Athenæ; its original name was Cecropia, from the founder, Cecrops. Minerva was

æ; its original name was Cecropia, from the founder, Cecrops. Minerva was also called Pallas, from a Greek word, signifying

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

ecropia, and from that time they called their city Athenæ. Minerva was represented as a beautiful woman, of a countenanc

d as a beautiful woman, of a countenance somewhat severe. On her head was a golden helmet, and her breastplate was also of

somewhat severe. On her head was a golden helmet, and her breastplate was also of gold. In her right hand Minerva bore a be

. The Egis of Minerva had embossed upon it the head of Medusa. Medusa was one of the Gorgons, a sea nymph — she offended Mi

became an object of aversion and horror. Perseus, a prince of Argos, was employed to cut off this terrific head. Perseus,

employed to cut off this terrific head. Perseus, in this expedition, was assisted by the gods. Mercury gave him a cimeter,

, and unseen himself, presented the mirror to the Gorgon; — while she was gazing at herself, he cut off her head. Perseus a

the head to Minerva, who placed it upon her shield; and so frightful was it, that those who beheld it were turned to stone

, And terror lighted on the dazzled field. Botanic Garden. The Egis was not often thus employed, — it was only used to af

d field. Botanic Garden. The Egis was not often thus employed, — it was only used to affright the bad. The meaning of thi

of purer eyes than to behold iniquity with complacency. The Palladium was an image of Pallas, which was supposed to have fa

niquity with complacency. The Palladium was an image of Pallas, which was supposed to have fallen from heaven. The Palladiu

Pallas, which was supposed to have fallen from heaven. The Palladium was preserved with great vigilance in the citadel of

the Grecian heroes, contrived to convey the Palladium away, and Troy was taken. Eneas, the son of Venus, and the great anc

rought it with him into Italy. They assert that this celebrated image was deposited in the temple of Vesta, as a pledge of

itizens. The Parthenon, called from one of Minerva’s names Parthenos, was the most splendid and beautiful temple of antiqui

rthenos, was the most splendid and beautiful temple of antiquity, and was erected in honour of this goddess at Athens. On a

onour of this goddess at Athens. On a conspicuous part of this temple was sculptured the different worshippers of Minerva —

are enabled to know the style of dress common to the Athenians. Who was the heathen goddess of Wisdom — and what is signi

he poetic origin of Minerva? How is Minerva represented? Of what city was Minerva the guardian? Why was the name of Minerva

ow is Minerva represented? Of what city was Minerva the guardian? Why was the name of Minerva given to Athens? How was Mine

inerva the guardian? Why was the name of Minerva given to Athens? How was Minerva’s Egis distinguished? Who assisted Perseu

head? What does the fable of the shield signify? ——— The Panathenæa was a festival, celebrated in honour of Minerva. It o

sons to others who might wish to serve their country. An olive wreath was bestowed, as a mark of the public approbation upo

of these competitions. At this festival a very interesting procession was formed. It was composed of different classes of t

itions. At this festival a very interesting procession was formed. It was composed of different classes of the citizens, an

ng and mirth. The most celebrated statue of Minerva in ancient times, was that of the Parthenon, thirty-nine feet in height

e Parthenon, thirty-nine feet in height, formed of ivory and gold. It was the work of Phidias, produced by the request of P

quest of Pericles. The Athenians were offended at Phidias, because it was discovered that among certain figures, engraved u

eople banished Phidias, and he withdrew from Athens to Elis, where he was beloved and cherished, and where he made a statue

as beloved and cherished, and where he made a statue of Jupiter, that was reckoned among the seven wonders of the world. W

upiter, that was reckoned among the seven wonders of the world. What was the Palladium? Who carried the Palladium to Italy

ld. What was the Palladium? Who carried the Palladium to Italy? What was the Parthenon? What was the Panathenæa? What were

ium? Who carried the Palladium to Italy? What was the Parthenon? What was the Panathenæa? What were the songs sung at the P

at this festival? How did young persons appear at the Panathenæa? How was the Panathenæa concluded? What was the most celeb

sons appear at the Panathenæa? How was the Panathenæa concluded? What was the most celebrated statue of Minerva? Ceres.

eres. See plate, page 55. Ceres, the daughter of Saturn and Ops, was the goddess of agriculture. She first instructed

names, in different countries in the pagan world. The image of Ceres was that of a tall female, having her head adorned wi

ll female, having her head adorned with ears of wheat. Her right hand was filled with poppies and corn, and her left carrie

her left carried a lighted torch. Ceres had splendid temples, and she was worshipped by husbandmen in the fields, before th

queen’s immortal praise. Pitt ’s Virgil . The worship of Ceres was universal among those who received the religion o

d the religion of Greece. The most solemn ceremonial of that religion was the festival of Ceres, celebrated at Eleusis, a t

e high priest, called the Hierophant, to the mysteries of Eleusis. It was pretended that those \w\\o enjoyed this privilege

tructed in, in these mysteries, were accounted execrable. Execration was a sentence which forbade all people to dwell in t

etended forms of spirits. The first introduction to these exhibitions was the initiation. What these mysteries really signi

reventives to accidents and diseases, or malevolence of enemies. Who was Ceres? What is the primitive condition of mankind

condition of mankind? What favour did Ceres probably confer, and what was she called by the Egyptians? How was Ceres repres

Ceres probably confer, and what was she called by the Egyptians? How was Ceres represented? In what verses is her worship

How were persons admitted to the mysteries of Eleusis regarded? What was execration? What spectacles were exhibited at Ele

iest fictions of the mythology is the story of Proserpine. Proserpine was the beloved daughter of Ceres. The favourite resi

e was the beloved daughter of Ceres. The favourite residence of Ceres was the beautiful and fertile island of Sicily. In Si

eautiful and fertile island of Sicily. In Sicily the young Proserpine was bred up, and her innocent and happy occupation wa

e young Proserpine was bred up, and her innocent and happy occupation was to wander over the valley of Enna, where, attende

hering flowers. One day as Proserpine, with the daughters of Oceanus, was diverting herself in the pleasant fields of Enna,

fine horses, black as ebony. Admiring the beauty of Proserpine, Pluto was resolved to make her his queen, and had come to c

had nothing frightful in the apprehension of Proserpine, and that she was taken without much resistance. The ground opened

the car of Pluto and Proserpine a fountain gushed out. This fountain was called Cyane, and thither the Sicilians would aft

hell. Ceres, upon this, descended to the dark dominions of Pluto, and was welcomed by Proserpine, who gladly prepared to re

o gladly prepared to return to earth with her mother. Pluto, however, was not to be deceived; he had employed a spy called

ad employed a spy called Ascalaphus to watch Proserpine, and when she was about to depart Ascalaphus declared that he had s

lared that he had seen her eating a pomegranate. Therefore Proserpine was detained, and Ceres compelled to leave her. Again

ed that Proserpine should divide the year between earth and hell. She was to spend six months with her mother, and the othe

epresents the vigilance of Ascalaphus, who watched Proserpine when he was not himself observed. It is suitable to wisdom, w

where the careless are blind, to take such a bird as her emblem. Who was Proserpine, and how did she employ herself? Who c

ense meets the balmy skies. Venus. See plate, page 65. Venus was the personification of female beauty The poets re

She first appeared upon the surface of the waves in a sea-shell, and was gently wafted to the foot of mount Cythera, and w

Romans sometimes called Venus, Cythera, from the island to which she was borne, and sometimes she was called Dione. Her fa

s, Cythera, from the island to which she was borne, and sometimes she was called Dione. Her favourite residence was in the

as borne, and sometimes she was called Dione. Her favourite residence was in the island of Cyprus, where she was worshipped

Dione. Her favourite residence was in the island of Cyprus, where she was worshipped at the city of Paphos. Venus, from her

py disposition, is often styled the laughter-loving goddess. That she was intrusted to the Hours and conveyed by them to he

and Cupids, surrounding her. When she ascended to heaven her chariot was drawn by doves and swans, accompanied by Cupid an

d by Cupid and the Graces. She guided her doves by a golden chain She was clothed in slight and graceful apparel, bound rou

arel, bound round the waist by a girdle called the cestus. The cestus was supposed to make Venus a thousand times more grac

d to make Venus a thousand times more graceful and beautiful than she was without it. The temples of Venus were numerous in

era, and Idalia were the most celebrated. In some places incense only was offered to this goddess. The dove and the swan, t

eauty never fades, and whose youth is immortal. Adonis. Adonis was a beautiful youth, and beloved by Venus. His favo

was a beautiful youth, and beloved by Venus. His favourite occupation was hunting Venus often cautioned him against exposin

? In what verses is her rising from the sea described? Where, and how was Venus worshipped? What personal ornament did the

y of Adonis? In what verses is Adonis described? Cupid. Cupid was the son of Venus, and was the emblem of love. He

s is Adonis described? Cupid. Cupid was the son of Venus, and was the emblem of love. He was generally painted as a

Cupid. Cupid was the son of Venus, and was the emblem of love. He was generally painted as a beautiful winged boy, with

imes he is represented as breaking the winged thunderbolt of Jove. He was the son of Venus; his wife was Psyche — a Greek w

ing the winged thunderbolt of Jove. He was the son of Venus; his wife was Psyche — a Greek word, signifying spirit, or soul

Greek word, signifying spirit, or soul. The love of Cupid for Psyche was an allegory intended to show that all true affect

eart are sufficient, without disguise or art, to gain good will. Who was Cupid? What is signified by the story of Cupid an

what were their attributes? Diana. See plate, page 73. Diana was the twin sister of Apollo. Juno, being offended a

from heaven, and forbade the earth to afford her an asylum. Old Ocean was more compassionate. Neptune, in pity of her desol

moon. The Egyptians called her Isis. Among the Greeks Diana or Phebe was honoured under three different characters, as a g

ee different characters, as a goddess of heaven, earth, and hell, and was therefore called the triform goddess. As a celest

was therefore called the triform goddess. As a celestial divinity she was Luna, the Moon; as a terrestrial goddess, Diana;

errestrial goddess, Diana; and in the infernal regions, Hecate. Diana was the goddess of chastity, of the chase, and of woo

s the goddess of chastity, of the chase, and of woods. In heaven, she was supposed to enlighten by her rays; on earth, to r

realms below, to keep in awe the shadowy multitudes of ghosts. Diana was represented under the figure of a very tall and b

r, drawn by hinds. Diana had two temples famous in history. The first was that of Ephesus, one of the seven wonders of the

irst was that of Ephesus, one of the seven wonders of the world. This was burnt to the ground the very day on which Alexand

his was burnt to the ground the very day on which Alexander the Great was born. A man named Erostratus, wishing to make his

uch an action would necessarily transmit his name to posterity. Diana was worshipped with peculiar reverence at Ephesus. Wh

away like a dream of the night. The second celebrated temple of Diana was that of Taunica Chersonesus, or the modern Crimea

of Diana was that of Taunica Chersonesus, or the modern Crimea. This was in the ancient Scythia, which comprehended parts

ed Diana with barbarous rites, offering to her human sacrifices. Who was Diana? What were Diana’s several characters? What

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

Diana represented? Where was the most celebrated temple of Diana? How was the preaching of Paul received at Ephesus? What w

ple of Diana? How was the preaching of Paul received at Ephesus? What was the admonition of the shrine-maker at Ephesus? Ho

eased? What has taken place in the world in regard to Paganism? Where was another temple of Diana? The Muses. The M

Greek word, signifying glory, renown. She presided over History. She was supposed to have invented the lyre, which she is

hand resting upon the club of Hercules; because the object of tragedy was to represent the brilliant actions and the misfor

epresent the brilliant actions and the misfortunes of heroes. Euterpe was the patroness of instrumental music. Her name sig

ides over miscellaneous poetry, and the ode. Urania, or the heavenly, was esteemed the inventress of astronomy. In her hand

ne, and Castalia at the foot of Parnassus. Their horse had wings, and was called Pegasus — when Pegasus struck the earth fo

? How were they represented? From what were their names derived? What was the office of Clio; of Thalia; of Melpomene; of E

iar divinities. Oceanus and Nereus both represented the ocean. Nereus was the son of Oceanus. Oceanus had seventy-two daugh

Nereides express, and how did they appear? Neptune. Neptune was the brother of Jupiter. In the division of their

f their father’s kingdom the empire of the seas fell to his share. He was worshipped as the god of the seas. Amphitrite was

ll to his share. He was worshipped as the god of the seas. Amphitrite was his wife. He was represented with black hair and

He was worshipped as the god of the seas. Amphitrite was his wife. He was represented with black hair and blue eyes, standi

the sea-nymphs, and the Tritons sounding their trumpet of shells. He was the ruler of the waters, the god of ships and of

held. Neptune in more grateful estimation than the other states. Who was Neptune, and how was he represented? What were Ne

grateful estimation than the other states. Who was Neptune, and how was he represented? What were Neptune’s attributes? W

tune, and how was he represented? What were Neptune’s attributes? Why was Neptune worshipped with peculiar rites at Corinth

hipped with peculiar rites at Corinth? Polyphemus. Polyphemus was a son of Neptune, a giant who, like the Cyclops h

whenever they fell in ills way. Polyphemus surprised Ulysses when he was driven to the island of Sicily and devoured sever

companions. Ulysses contrived to intoxicate Polyphemus, and while he was asleep extinguished his only eye. Phorcus, father

he Tritons were imaginary sea animals, the upper part of whose bodies was supposed to resemble that of man; the lower part

le that of man; the lower part that of the dolphin. The first of them was the son of Neptune and Amphitrite. This Triton, b

applause. Scylla and Charybdis. Scylla, daughter of Phorcus, was a beautiful woman, whom Circe hated because she w

ghter of Phorcus, was a beautiful woman, whom Circe hated because she was beloved by Glaucus, whom Circe desired for hersel

chievous Circe infected the water in which Scylla bathed, so that she was metamorphosed into a monster, retaining the femal

, retaining the female form, but having six dogs’ heads; some say she was changed to a rock on the coast of Sicily. Scylla

ds; some say she was changed to a rock on the coast of Sicily. Scylla was , in fact, a rock, and the table of the dogs’ head

Sicily. Scylla was, in fact, a rock, and the table of the dogs’ heads was derived from the supposed resemblance between the

the dashing of the waves and the howling of dogs. Opposite to Scylla was a whirlpool called Charybdis. Charybdis was suppo

dogs. Opposite to Scylla was a whirlpool called Charybdis. Charybdis was supposed to have been a female robber killed by H

bdis was supposed to have been a female robber killed by Hercules. It was said that the rock Scylla and the whirlpool Chary

r of Charybdis, struck upon Scylla, and, if it would avoid Scylla, it was swallowed by Charybdis. Hence the proverb, when w

gnorantly presumed to be the cause of allaying tempests. ——— Proteus was a son of Neptune, who was intrusted with the care

he cause of allaying tempests. ——— Proteus was a son of Neptune, who was intrusted with the care of his flocks, consisting

ion of a Proteus King of Egypt, about the time of the Trojan war, who was illustrious for his secrecy, wisdom, and foresigh

, who was illustrious for his secrecy, wisdom, and foresight. Proteus was a prophet. When Menelaus was detained on the coas

secrecy, wisdom, and foresight. Proteus was a prophet. When Menelaus was detained on the coast of Africa on his return fro

oney, oil, and sometimes goats, were sacrificed to their honour. Who was Polyphemus? Who were the Tritons? Who were the Si

ere the Sirens? How does Milton describe the music of the Sirens? Who was Scylla? What does the fable of Scylla signify, an

irens? Who was Scylla? What does the fable of Scylla signify, and who was Charybdis? What proverb is derived from the fable

t were the Halcyones? What is the truth concerning the Halcyones? Who was Proteus? What is Homer’s description of Proteus?

esided over different parts of nature? Who were the Harpies, and what was their character? Who presided over the waters and

rushed the sweet poison of misused wine. Milton’s Comus . Bacchus was probably some ancient conqueror and civilian of t

nd civilian of the Eastern nations. The mythologists say that Bacchus was born in Egypt and educated at Nysa in Arabia; tha

fir, the ivy, the fig, and the vine, were sacred to Bacchus. The goat was slain in his sacrifices, because that animal is i

satyr, covered with a goat skin, is endeavouring to get a taste. Who was Bacchus? Was Bacchus a hostile conqueror? What do

hibit? Where, and by whom were the feasts of Bacchus celebrated? What was the character of the rites of Bacchus? How did Vi

r of the rites of Bacchus? How did Virgil praise Bacchus? ——— Flora was the wife of Zephyrus, the goddess of flowers; in

dess of flowers; in honour of whom the Romans celebrated games. Flora was celebrated at Rome in certain festivals, called t

rated at Rome in certain festivals, called the Floral Games. Her head was adorned with a chaplet of roses. She carried in h

chaplet of roses. She carried in her arms a profusion of flowers, and was young and fair, as became “the queen of all the f

was young and fair, as became “the queen of all the flowers.” Pomona was the goddess of orchards, married to Vertumnus. Th

ns, who placed her in the Pantheon, or temple of all the gods. Pomona was represented under the form of a beautiful young w

ding fruit in one hand, and in the other the horn of plenty. Priapus was considered as the god of gardens. He was accounte

the horn of plenty. Priapus was considered as the god of gardens. He was accounted the son of Venus and Bacchus; and his i

f Venus and Bacchus; and his image, a most hideous mis-shapen figure, was set up to frighten away birds and thieves. The ea

he eastern nations worshipped him under the name of Baal-Peor. Pales was the goddess of shepherds and protectress of flock

a, were celebrated in the month of April, on which occasion no victim was killed, and nothing offered but the fruits of the

ted to the goddess, milk, cheese, prepared wine, and millet cakes. It was during this feast they celebrated the founding of

Segesta, during the harvest; Tutelina, when stored; and Robigus, who was invoked to preserve it from the mildew. Populonia

he grinding of corn, and Picumnus over the manuring of lands. Hippona was the goddess of horses and stables, and Collina of

ountains. They were represented as half men and half goats. Terminus was a Roman deity. Numa, finding the laws which he ha

uted feasts to his honour, and prescribed the form of his worship. He was represented under the form of an immovable rock.

vable rock. Milk, cakes, and fruit were offered to him, and his image was crowned with flowers and rubbed with oil. Æolus

m, and his image was crowned with flowers and rubbed with oil. Æolus was a son of Jupiter; god of the winds and tempests;

Æolus was a son of Jupiter; god of the winds and tempests; which he was supposed to retain in a vast cave, or to set at l

y attentively observing the direction in which the smoke of volcanoes was driven by the winds, he learnt to distinguish tho

erwards passed over into Italy. Æolia may be seen in Asia Minor. Who was Flora? Who was Pomona? Who was Priapus? Who was P

over into Italy. Æolia may be seen in Asia Minor. Who was Flora? Who was Pomona? Who was Priapus? Who was Pales? Who were

Æolia may be seen in Asia Minor. Who was Flora? Who was Pomona? Who was Priapus? Who was Pales? Who were other rural deit

n in Asia Minor. Who was Flora? Who was Pomona? Who was Priapus? Who was Pales? Who were other rural deities? Who were the

les? Who were other rural deities? Who were the Fauns and Satyrs? Who was Terminus? Who were ÆoIus and his children? What f

es. By the poets, he is said to be the son of Jupiter and Calista. He was represented under the form of a satyr, half man a

ng in his hand the rural pipe, invented by him, and called Syrinx. He was generally venerated by the Arcadians, as the head

in Latin lupus. The priests of Pan, at Rome, were called Luperci. Pan was regarded as the inspirer of sudden untounded terr

gure is nearly as frightful as that of Medusa. The real origin of Pan was extremely ancient. The Egyptians worshipped the s

red the beautiful Narcissus; who, seeing his own image in a fountain, was so captivated with it that he remained gazing the

preserved her voice, repeating every sound which reached her. Syrinx was a nymph in the train of Diana, and, when pursued

em together, formed of them a rural pipe, and named it Syrinx. Pithys was favourable to the god, but Boreas being jealous o

h his powerful blast precipitated her from a rock. While falling, she was changed into a pine tree, which was afterwards sa

r from a rock. While falling, she was changed into a pine tree, which was afterwards sacred to Pan. Milk and honey were off

rwards sacred to Pan. Milk and honey were offered to this deity. Who was Pan? Was Pan regarded as the inspirer of false fe

y. Who was Pan? Was Pan regarded as the inspirer of false fear? What was the Egyptian Pan? Whom did Pan love, and what bec

as the Egyptian Pan? Whom did Pan love, and what became of Echo? What was the origin of Pan’s pipe the Syrinx? Who transfor

n’s pipe the Syrinx? Who transformed Pithys? Silenus. Silenus was the chief of the Satyrs, the foster-father of Bac

ald head, a flat nose, large ears, and every mark of intemperance. He was generally seen accompanying Bacchus, riding upon

is seat. Historians give a different account of him. They say that he was a philosopher of great wisdom and learning, who a

and learning, who accompanied Bacchus in his expedition to India, and was his principal counsellor. Who was Silenus?

us in his expedition to India, and was his principal counsellor. Who was Silenus? Domestic Divinities. Lares and

were consecrated to them, and that faithful domestic animal, the dog, was sacrificed to them When infants quitted one of th

hen infants quitted one of their first ornaments called the Bulla, it was deposited before the feet of these domestic deiti

represented as young boys, covered with dog-skins, and at their feet was placed the image of a dog. The dog is the emblem

more the friend and guard of man than any brute animal; therefore he was a proper companion of the domestic gods. The Lare

t the expression of driving a man from his Penates, signified that he was expelled from his home, his country, and from all

thoughts, governing and disposing his mind and his conduct. Every man was supposed to have two Genii. His evil genius dispo

groves, fountains, and hills, were provided with these guardians. It was the custom of the Romans to invoke these Genii on

custom of the Romans to invoke these Genii on birth-days. The ground was strewed with flowers, and wine was offered to the

se Genii on birth-days. The ground was strewed with flowers, and wine was offered to them in cups. The opinion prevailed, t

er places as well as persons? How were the Genii worshipped, and what was the opinion of the ancients respecting spirits?

he opinion of the ancients respecting spirits? Aurora. Aurora was the goddess of morning, and the mother of the win

he goddess of morning, and the mother of the winds and the stars. She was represented seated in a light car, drawn by white

perpetual youth, and Tithonus, though he continued to live for ages, was in such a state of dotage, that is of infirm old

hed rather to die than live. Tithonus, according to fabulous history, was transformed to a grasshopper, an insect which the

So blest an age is past by thee. Thou seemest — a little deity! Who was Aurora, and how is she represented? What is the h

ora, and how is she represented? What is the history of Tithonus? How was Tithonus transformed, and who write verses to the

grasshopper? Zephyr. See plate, page 97. Zephyr or Zephyrus was the west wind. He was represented as a beautiful

yr. See plate, page 97. Zephyr or Zephyrus was the west wind. He was represented as a beautiful youth, with butterfly’

nd revived the flowers when they fainted under the sun’s rays. Zephyr was married to Flora, the goddess of flowers. He was

e sun’s rays. Zephyr was married to Flora, the goddess of flowers. He was represented in the octagon temple of Athens, whic

h is called the Temple of the Winds. Zephyr loved young Hyacinth, who was also beloved by the nymph Echo, and by Apollo. Hy

envious Zephyr applied his strongest breath to a discus which Apollo was throwing, and killed Hyacinth. Who was Zephyr? T

eath to a discus which Apollo was throwing, and killed Hyacinth. Who was Zephyr? To whom was Zephyrus married, and whom di

ch Apollo was throwing, and killed Hyacinth. Who was Zephyr? To whom was Zephyrus married, and whom did he love? Infe

uto, the supreme ruler of the infernal regions, sometimes called Dis, was the third son of Saturn and Ops. He was represent

egions, sometimes called Dis, was the third son of Saturn and Ops. He was represented seated on a throne, surrounded with g

the flowers of the narcissus, or with cypress or ebony. Sometimes he was seen in a chariot drawn by black horses, with a h

ctims offered to him generally were black sheep. The wife of Pluto was Proserpine; her history is related with that of h

ar in night celestial beauty blazed. Botanic Garden, Canto IV. Who was the presiding deity of hell, and how was he repre

anic Garden, Canto IV. Who was the presiding deity of hell, and how was he represented? Who was Pluto’s wife, and how is

Who was the presiding deity of hell, and how was he represented? Who was Pluto’s wife, and how is she described? ——— At

Here, stretched on iron beds, the Furies roar. The Infernal Regions was the place of reception for souls who had lived up

ntenced according to their past conduct, either to heaven or hell. It was a superstition of the Greeks that the souls of th

d sometimes they erected a pyre, or pile of wood, upon which the body was laid and consumed to ashes. These ashes were comm

tisfy his manes, or parted soul. The entrance to the infernal regions was called Avernus. Before it was stationed a multitu

l. The entrance to the infernal regions was called Avernus. Before it was stationed a multitude of frightful forms, which p

eir hands. The palace of Pluto, the sovereign of these dreary realms, was guarded by Cerberus, an enormous dog with three h

s guarded by Cerberus, an enormous dog with three heads, one of which was always upon the watch. Not far from the abode of

e of which was always upon the watch. Not far from the abode of Pluto was the tribunal, or judgment-seat of Minos, Eacus, a

us, and Rhadamanthus, who pronounced sentence upon the dead. Tartarus was an immense and gloomy prison, to which the wicked

was an immense and gloomy prison, to which the wicked were doomed. It was surrounded by triple walls of solid brass, beneat

eath which rolled the fiery waves of Phlegethon; and further distant, was the stagnant marsh of Cocytus. In this forlorn re

blivion, or forgetfulness. To drink of Lethe made one forget all that was past. It was believed by many that the departed w

orgetfulness. To drink of Lethe made one forget all that was past. It was believed by many that the departed were liberated

s of hell? Did the ancients presume that the punishment of the wicked was eternal? How has Virgil described Hades, or Hell?

nt them judges of the dead. The probable history of Minos is, that he was a king of the island of Crete, and was contempora

e history of Minos is, that he was a king of the island of Crete, and was contemporary with Moses. He governed his kingdom

pressed in the Scriptures? What were the Furies sometimes called? Who was Nemesis? The Fates. The Fates, or Destini

ppy days were spun out of gold and silver, while the thread of sorrow was of black worsted. The Fates were represented as t

us colours, ant a crown composed of seven stars. The robe of Lachesis was spangled with stars, and near her lay a number of

x or Night, Death, and ”Death’s half-brother, Sleep.” Nox, or Night, was the daughter of Chaos. She was represented in a l

half-brother, Sleep.” Nox, or Night, was the daughter of Chaos. She was represented in a long black veil spangled with st

the expanse of the firmament in a chariot of ebony. Mors, or Death, was a daughter of Nox, depicted in the form of a skel

o altars were ever raised. Trenches were cut in the earth, into which was poured the blood of black sheep or heifers. Durin

nour, and no temples were dedicated to them. Who were the Fates? Who was Nox? Who was Mors? What was the worship paid to t

temples were dedicated to them. Who were the Fates? Who was Nox? Who was Mors? What was the worship paid to the infernal d

dicated to them. Who were the Fates? Who was Nox? Who was Mors? What was the worship paid to the infernal deities? Cri

les. Sisyphus. Sisyphus, for having attempted to deceive Pluto, was condemned to the never-ceasing labour of rolling

son of Mars, for having set fire to the temple of Apollo, at Delphi, was sentenced to hell, and was placed under a vast st

t fire to the temple of Apollo, at Delphi, was sentenced to hell, and was placed under a vast stone, which was suspended ov

lphi, was sentenced to hell, and was placed under a vast stone, which was suspended over his head, perpetually threatening

The giant Tityus, a son of Jupiter, whose body covers nine acres, was slain by the arrow of Apollo, because he dared to

s slain by the arrow of Apollo, because he dared to insult Diana, and was thrown into Tartarus, where vultures unceasingly

Ixion. Ixion, who offended Jupiter by an insult offered to Juno, was bound to a wheel surrounded with serpents, and pe

his own son, Pelops, and served up his body at a banquet of the gods, was condemned to the ever-enduring pain of parching t

to the ever-enduring pain of parching thirst, and ravenous hunger. He was plunged in water, and surrounded with delicious f

. He was plunged in water, and surrounded with delicious food, yet he was not permitted to reach either. “I saw,” said Uly

nce. Danaus emigrated from Egypt to Argos in Peloponnesus; thither he was followed by the fifty sons of his brother Egyptus

e the more remarkable criminals punished in the infernal regions? Who was Phlegyas? Who was Tityus? Who was Ixion? Who was

ble criminals punished in the infernal regions? Who was Phlegyas? Who was Tityus? Who was Ixion? Who was Tantalus? Who were

nished in the infernal regions? Who was Phlegyas? Who was Tityus? Who was Ixion? Who was Tantalus? Who were the Danaides?

nfernal regions? Who was Phlegyas? Who was Tityus? Who was Ixion? Who was Tantalus? Who were the Danaides? Cerberus.

Who was Tantalus? Who were the Danaides? Cerberus. Cerberus was a dreadful three-headed mastiff, placed as a sent

rance of Pluto’s palace, the tremendous keeper of these gloomy abodes was stationed. He fawned upon those who entered, but

pon those who entered, but tore all who attempted to return. Hercules was commanded to bring Cerberus into upper air, and d

sight of Hercules, crouched under the throne of Pluton, but the hero was permitted to take him. From the foam of his mouth

h, which dropped upon the earth, sprung deadly poison, aconite. What was Cerberus? Who dragged Cerberus from hell? El

tures , “to bring life and immortality to light.” The heathen heaven was called the Elysian Fields. The Elysian Fields wer

s name behind, Friends of the world, and fathers of mankind. Elysium was represented to be a beautiful country, in which p

to be a beautiful country, in which perfect peace prevailed. The air was delicious, and never disturbed by storms. The sun

d. The air was delicious, and never disturbed by storms. The sunshine was unclouded, and delicious fruits and odorous flowe

tality? What particular facts prove the immortality of the soul? What was the heathen heaven called, and who were admitted

What was the heathen heaven called, and who were admitted to it? How was Elysium represented? ——— Plutus was the god of

nd who were admitted to it? How was Elysium represented? ——— Plutus was the god of riches. He was represented as blind, t

? How was Elysium represented? ——— Plutus was the god of riches. He was represented as blind, to signify that wealth is d

that wealth is dispensed lo the good and bad indifferently. Fortune was a goddess, who distributed her favours without ju

tune was a goddess, who distributed her favours without judgment. She was represented with a bandage over her eyes. The anc

and benevolent, and is the nature of true and lasting pleasure. Momus was the god of gay conversation, and of wit. ——— Esc

e. Momus was the god of gay conversation, and of wit. ——— Esculapius was the son of Apollo and Coronis, the god of physic.

physic. Being exposed upon a mountain immediately after his birth, he was nourished by a goat. A shepherd discovering him,

ight, carried him home, and committed him to the care of his wife. He was afterwards placed under the tuition of Chiron, th

rds placed under the tuition of Chiron, the Centaur. At Epidaurus, he was worshipped under the form of a serpent, and somet

hat of an old man, holding a staff encircled by a serpent. Esculapius was , probably, only an excellent physician, but ignor

for a supernatural power, and exalted him to the rank of a god. Who was the god of riches? How was Fortune represented? W

and exalted him to the rank of a god. Who was the god of riches? How was Fortune represented? Who were Comus and Momus? Wh

? What really changes the nature of men to that of brute animals? Who was Esculapius reputed to be? What is the probable ac

to be? What is the probable account of Esculapius? Echo. Echo was the daughter of Air and Earth. Juno condemned her

r said. Echo loved the beautiful Narcissus, but he despised her. Echo was so afflicted at the treatment she received from N

ountain, Narcissus beheld the reflection of his own face and form; it was more lovely than any object he had ever seen; he

een; he desired above all things, to possess the beautiful image — it was but a shadow — he died of grief, because he could

because he could not obtain the reality of so charming a injure. Who was Echo? Was Narcissus punished for his contempt of

the slumberer, and were known by bat’s wings, of a black colour. Who was Morpheus? What were dreams supposed to be? Th

emesis. Themis, or Astrea, is the personification of Justice. She was the daughter of Heaven and Earth. The figure of J

admitted the moral government of the world by a superior power. Who was Astrea? What do the emblems which the figure of J

e of Justice bears express? When did Justice descend from heaven? Who was Nemesis, and what were her attributes? Fame.

nd times the truth or the falsehood she designed to spread abroad. It was equally her office to delight and to deceive mank

t in her hand, to denote the loudness of her report. A figure of Fame was often fixed to the triumphal car of the Roman war

and threw down others at the same time. Envy and Discord. Envy was personified by the poets of antiquity. She was a

and Discord. Envy was personified by the poets of antiquity. She was a frightful woman, repining always at the happine

happiness of others, and endeavouring to injure those she hated. Envy was the daughter of Night. Her girdle was a serpent,

to injure those she hated. Envy was the daughter of Night. Her girdle was a serpent, and snakes hissed in her hair. Discor

ht. Her girdle was a serpent, and snakes hissed in her hair. Discord was a malevolent female deity, who excited quarrels a

th high respect. Somnus. Somnus, the god of sleep, son of Nox, was represented as a child in a profound sleep, holdi

e Envy and Discord personified? By what nations, and under what names was Health worshipped? Who was Somnus? Demi-Gods

ied? By what nations, and under what names was Health worshipped? Who was Somnus? Demi-Gods. Besides the divinitie

is told in the following article — the history of Hercules. Hercules was the principal hero of the Greek Fabulous History.

after many years, those who hear of his achievements declare that he was a god who accomplished these services to mankind.

d.” Hercules, one of the most renowned of the heroes of antiquity, was reputed to be the son of Jupiter and Alcmena. Fro

reputed to be the son of Jupiter and Alcmena. From his birth Hercules was favoured with extraordinary abilities: but notwit

s: but notwithstanding his strength, courage, and accomplishments, he was destined by the will of Jupiter to be subject to

and Mycenæ. The first exploit which is related of the infant Hercules was the strangling of two serpents while he was in hi

ed of the infant Hercules was the strangling of two serpents while he was in his cradle. Juno, who hated Hercules, sent the

iclus, who saw the deed, ran about shrieking through fright. Hercules was early instructed in the arts practised in that ob

, to sing. Like some of his illustrious contemporaries, his education was finished under Chiron the Centaur. Hercules was b

raries, his education was finished under Chiron the Centaur. Hercules was bred up at Thebes, and at the age of eighteen kil

th the government of his kingdom. When Eurystheus heard that Hercules was thus exalted, he commanded him to appear at Mycen

n, a golden cuirass, and brazen buskins. The first labour of Hercules was the killing of the lion of Nemea, which ravaged t

himself in the skin of the Nemean lion. The second labour of Hercules was the destruction of the Hydra of the Lake of Lerna

a, a monster with a multitude of heads. As soon as one of these heads was struck off, two others immediately sprung up. But

heads was struck off, two others immediately sprung up. But Hercules was enabled by the assistance of his friend Iolas to

wards dipped the points of his arrows in the gall of the Hydra, which was a mortal poison. and caused the wounds inflicted

ds inflicted by the arrows to produce instant death. The third labour was to take, and bring alive to Eurystheus, a stag co

onsecrated to Diana. This stag had golden horns, and brazen feet, and was of incredible swiftness. After a chase of a year,

-master, and the goddess forgave him. The fourth labour of this hero, was also to take alive a wild boar. This boar ravaged

nd Hercules succeeded in seizing him in a snow bank. The fifth labour was the cleansing of the stables of Augias, where 3,0

tables of Augias, where 3,000 oxen had been confined many years. This was effected by turning a liver through the stable. F

by turning a liver through the stable. For his sixth labour Hercules was ordered to kill some carnivorous birds which devo

ke Stymphalus in Arcadia. This being accomplished, the seventh labour was the taking of a wild bull of Crete. The eighth la

was the taking of a wild bull of Crete. The eighth labour of Hercules was to obtain the mares of Diomedes, who preyed upon

these animals, and gave them Diomedes for a repast. The ninth labour was to get possession of a girdle belonging to Hippol

le queen of the Amazons, a nation of warlike females. After Hippolyte was conquered, Hercules presented her to Theseus, Kin

resented her to Theseus, King of Athens, for a wife. The tenth labour was to kill Geryon, King of Gades, in Spain, and to b

, in Spain, and to bring his flock to Eurystheus. The eleventh labour was to obtain golden apples from the garden of the He

le Atlas procured the apples. The twelfth and last labour of Hercules was to bring up to earth the three-headed dog Cerberu

y exploits of Hercules; many others are related of him. When Hercules was driving the herds of Geryon through Italy, Cacus,

t the Achelous, a river of Epirus, which divides Acarnia from Etolia, was once transformed to an ox, and encountered Hercul

rsary. Hercules conquered Achelous, and broke off his horn. This horn was picked up by the nymphs, filled with fruits and f

e the time of Hercules, the ancients pretended that the Mediterranean was an immense lake but that Hercules tore open the w

by a space of eighteen miles. The promontory of Africa thus produced, was Mount Abyla; that of Spain, where Gibraltar now s

lpe. Hercules killed Antæas, a giant of Lybia, a son of the Earth. He was a powerful wrestler, and was assisted by Terra, b

a giant of Lybia, a son of the Earth. He was a powerful wrestler, and was assisted by Terra, but Hercules lifted him up fro

accidentally killed a man at the court of his father-in-law, Hercules was obliged to leave the place, and he took with him

s. Iole, therefore, fell into the hands of her father’s murderer, and was carried by him to his house as a domestic slave.

ejanira prevailed upon her husband to put on this robe; but no sooner was he arrayed in it than the poison penetrated his b

of Philoctetes to set fire to the pile, he expired in the flames, and was received by the gods in heaven. Hercules is somet

by the gods in heaven. Hercules is sometimes called Alcides. Hercules was worshipped after his death. He was often invoked

sometimes called Alcides. Hercules was worshipped after his death. He was often invoked by people who wanted assistance in

bles. It is represented by the historian Xenophon, that when Hercules was young, two females once appeared to him, — one wa

that when Hercules was young, two females once appeared to him, — one was Virtue, who proposed his arduous duties; the othe

to him, — one was Virtue, who proposed his arduous duties; the other was Pleasure, who offered to his acceptance an easy a

exertions, and indulge himself for a time in repose and amusement. It was said, that Omphale sometimes put on the armour of

distaff. It has been mentioned that one of the exploits of Hercules, was taking the girdle of Hyppolite, queen of the Amaz

Minor. The Amazons admitted no men into their society. All their life was employed in war and martial exercises. The story

ceous animals’? What respect do men show to the memory of heroes? Who was Hercules? What was the education of Hercules? Wha

t respect do men show to the memory of heroes? Who was Hercules? What was the education of Hercules? What was the first exp

of heroes? Who was Hercules? What was the education of Hercules? What was the first exploit of Hercules? How did Hercules n

ours upon Hercules? Who enabled Hercules to achieve his labours? What was the first labour of Hercules? The second? The thi

The twelfth? Were the twelve labours the only toils of Hercules? What was the transformation of Achelous? What does this si

s say of the Mediterranean? What were the disunited rocks called? Who was Antæus? Was Hercules worshipped? What is related

of Hercules by Xenophon? Whom did Hercules wish to marry, and to whom was he sold as a slave? Whom did Hercules marry? What