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Showing posts with label story. Show all posts
Showing posts with label story. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Cupid and Psyche - Psyche Listens to Ceres
Psyche obeyed Ceres' (Greek Demeter's) commands and made her way to the temple of Venus (Greek, Aphrodite), and along her way, Psyche gathered her wits and tried to determine how best to approach Venus when, by doing so, she surely risked more of Venus' wrath.
Venus received her with great anger still, saying, "Most undutiful and faithless of servants-- do you at last remember that you really have a mistress? Or have you rather come to see your sick husband, yet laid up of the wound given him by his loving wife? You are so ill favored and disagreeable that the only way you can merit your lover must be by dint of industry and diligence. I will make trial of your housewifery." Venus ordered that Psyche to be taken to the great storehouse within her temple. Here there was a great amount of wheat, barley, millet, vetches, beans, and lentils prepared for food for her pigeons." Venus commanded Psyche to separate all the grains, placing the same kind of grains in a separate parcel. She ordered that the work be done by nightfall.
After Venus left her to her work, Psyche was so overwhelmed that the was immobile, mute, unable to lift a finger and begin the impossible task. While she sat, deflated and still, Cupid summoned the little ant and urged the ant to take compassion on Psyche, to assist her with this great taks. The ant mobilized a great number of his fellow ants and began sorting the piles, grain by grain, with diligence and steadiness. When the job was complete, the ants vanished.
When Venus returned from the banquet of the Gods just prior to nightfall, she exclaimed, "This is no work of yours, wicked one, but his, whom to your own and his misfortune you have enticed." She threw Psyche a bit of black bread, which was to act as a very insufficient supper, and Venus rushed out of the storehouse.
The next morning, Psyche was summoned to go see Venus who said, "Behold yonder grove which stretches along the margin of the water. There you will find sheep feeding without a shepherd, with golden-shining fleeces on their backs. Go, fetch me a sample of that precious wool gathered from every one of their fleeces."
Psyche went to the river, intending to do as ordered, but the river was too dangerous for Psyche to cross. The river god noticed Psyche's predicament and made the reeds speak, "Oh maiden, severely tried, tempt not the dangerous flood, nor venture among the formidable rams on the other side, for as long as they are under the influence of the rising sun, they burn with a cruel rage to destroy mortals with their sharp horns or rude teeth. But when the noontide sun has driven the cattle to the shade, and the serene spirit of the flood has lulled them to rest, you may then cross in safety, and you will find the woolly gold sticking to the bushes and the trunks of the trees."
At an appropriate time, the river god further instructed Psyche on how to accomplish her task, and after a time, work accomplished, Psyche returned to Venus with arms full of the requested golden fleece. Venus was displeased again, "I know very well it is by none of your own doings that you have succeeded in this task, and I am not satisfied yet that you have any capacity to make yourself useful. But I have another task for you. Here, take this box and go your way to the infernal shades, and give this box to Proserpina (Greek, Persephone) and say, "My mistress Venus desires you to send her a little of your beauty, for in tending her sick son she has lost some of her own.' Be not too long on your errand, for I must paint myself with it to appear at the circle of the gods and goddesses this evening."
Psyche was truly daunted at this next command, for the 'infernal shades' meant to go to 'Erebus,' an area of darkness and shadow that was part of Hades in the Underworld. Though afraid, she resolved to make herself go to Erebus. She paused near a tower, trying to fortify her resolve, when a voice from the tower spoke:
"Why, poor unlucky girl, do you design to put an end to your days in so dreadful a manner? And what cowardice makes you sink under this last danger who have been so miraculously supported in all your former?" Then the voice told her how by a certain cave she might reach the realms of Pluto (Hades), and how to avoid all the dangers of the road, to pass by Cerberus, the three-headed dog, and prevail on Charon, the ferryman, to take her across the black river and bring her back again. But the voice added, "When Proserpina (daughter of Ceres, wife of Orcus/Pluto/Hades) has given you the box filled with her beauty, of all things this is chiefly to be observed by you, that you never once open or look into the box nor allow your curiosity to pry into the treasure of the beauty of the goddesses."
Feeling somewhat less burdened now, encouraged, by this assistance, Psyche hurried, travelling safely to the kingdom of Hades, and she was welcomed into Proserpina's palace. Psyche refused the rest and banquet that was offered, but accepted some coarse black bread before delivering the message she carried from Venus.
The box was filled with the beauty of Proserpina, Psyche departed from the land of shadows quickly and was grateful very soon, when she reached the light of day once more. Having survived so many trials, she began to relax but then a sudden desire overtook her - a desire to see what was inside the box.
"What," said she, "shall I, the carrier of this divine beauty, not take the least bit to put on my cheeks to appear to more advantage in the eyes of my beloved husband!"
She opened the box but noticed nothing inside - certainly not the wondrous beauty that had been described and detailed previously. The box, however, was not empty. Inside, now released from Psyche having opened the box, was The Stygian sleep, a dark infernal slumber now free of its boxed prison. The Stygian sleep immediately overtook Psyche and she fell limp, right in the middle of the road, her body so still it was like a corpse without any signs of movement or life.
Cupid, finally healed from his wound, slipped through a crack in the window of his chamber and, unable to suffer the absense of Psyche longer, he flew to the place where Psyche lay collapsed. He drew the sleep up and away from her, gathering it together and putting it back in the box. He touched Psyche lightly with one of his arrows. "Again," said he, "have you almost perished by the same curiosity. But now perform exactly the task imposed on you by my mother, and I will take care of the rest."
With lightning speed, Cupid then ascended, striking upward to the heavens and brought a heartfelt, despreate story before Jupiter/Jove (Greek, Zeus). Thus, Jove was compelled to assist, so he pleaded the lovers' case very soundly with his wife, Juno (Greek, Hera) until he finally gained her consent, as well. An agreement made, Jove sent the messenger, Mercury (Greek, Hermes), forth to fetch Psyche and bring her to the heavens. Once she arrived, Jove provided her with a cup of ambrosia (only meant for the gods), and said, "Drink this, Psyche, and be immortal; nor shall Cupid ever break away from the knot in which he is tied, but these nuptials shall be perpetual."
In this way and after all this time and many trials, Psyche and Cupid became united in love. Their pairing brought forth a child and they were very happy finally. Their child was named 'Pleasure.'
Venus received her with great anger still, saying, "Most undutiful and faithless of servants-- do you at last remember that you really have a mistress? Or have you rather come to see your sick husband, yet laid up of the wound given him by his loving wife? You are so ill favored and disagreeable that the only way you can merit your lover must be by dint of industry and diligence. I will make trial of your housewifery." Venus ordered that Psyche to be taken to the great storehouse within her temple. Here there was a great amount of wheat, barley, millet, vetches, beans, and lentils prepared for food for her pigeons." Venus commanded Psyche to separate all the grains, placing the same kind of grains in a separate parcel. She ordered that the work be done by nightfall.
After Venus left her to her work, Psyche was so overwhelmed that the was immobile, mute, unable to lift a finger and begin the impossible task. While she sat, deflated and still, Cupid summoned the little ant and urged the ant to take compassion on Psyche, to assist her with this great taks. The ant mobilized a great number of his fellow ants and began sorting the piles, grain by grain, with diligence and steadiness. When the job was complete, the ants vanished.
When Venus returned from the banquet of the Gods just prior to nightfall, she exclaimed, "This is no work of yours, wicked one, but his, whom to your own and his misfortune you have enticed." She threw Psyche a bit of black bread, which was to act as a very insufficient supper, and Venus rushed out of the storehouse.
The next morning, Psyche was summoned to go see Venus who said, "Behold yonder grove which stretches along the margin of the water. There you will find sheep feeding without a shepherd, with golden-shining fleeces on their backs. Go, fetch me a sample of that precious wool gathered from every one of their fleeces."
Psyche went to the river, intending to do as ordered, but the river was too dangerous for Psyche to cross. The river god noticed Psyche's predicament and made the reeds speak, "Oh maiden, severely tried, tempt not the dangerous flood, nor venture among the formidable rams on the other side, for as long as they are under the influence of the rising sun, they burn with a cruel rage to destroy mortals with their sharp horns or rude teeth. But when the noontide sun has driven the cattle to the shade, and the serene spirit of the flood has lulled them to rest, you may then cross in safety, and you will find the woolly gold sticking to the bushes and the trunks of the trees."
At an appropriate time, the river god further instructed Psyche on how to accomplish her task, and after a time, work accomplished, Psyche returned to Venus with arms full of the requested golden fleece. Venus was displeased again, "I know very well it is by none of your own doings that you have succeeded in this task, and I am not satisfied yet that you have any capacity to make yourself useful. But I have another task for you. Here, take this box and go your way to the infernal shades, and give this box to Proserpina (Greek, Persephone) and say, "My mistress Venus desires you to send her a little of your beauty, for in tending her sick son she has lost some of her own.' Be not too long on your errand, for I must paint myself with it to appear at the circle of the gods and goddesses this evening."
Psyche was truly daunted at this next command, for the 'infernal shades' meant to go to 'Erebus,' an area of darkness and shadow that was part of Hades in the Underworld. Though afraid, she resolved to make herself go to Erebus. She paused near a tower, trying to fortify her resolve, when a voice from the tower spoke:
"Why, poor unlucky girl, do you design to put an end to your days in so dreadful a manner? And what cowardice makes you sink under this last danger who have been so miraculously supported in all your former?" Then the voice told her how by a certain cave she might reach the realms of Pluto (Hades), and how to avoid all the dangers of the road, to pass by Cerberus, the three-headed dog, and prevail on Charon, the ferryman, to take her across the black river and bring her back again. But the voice added, "When Proserpina (daughter of Ceres, wife of Orcus/Pluto/Hades) has given you the box filled with her beauty, of all things this is chiefly to be observed by you, that you never once open or look into the box nor allow your curiosity to pry into the treasure of the beauty of the goddesses."
Feeling somewhat less burdened now, encouraged, by this assistance, Psyche hurried, travelling safely to the kingdom of Hades, and she was welcomed into Proserpina's palace. Psyche refused the rest and banquet that was offered, but accepted some coarse black bread before delivering the message she carried from Venus.
The box was filled with the beauty of Proserpina, Psyche departed from the land of shadows quickly and was grateful very soon, when she reached the light of day once more. Having survived so many trials, she began to relax but then a sudden desire overtook her - a desire to see what was inside the box.
"What," said she, "shall I, the carrier of this divine beauty, not take the least bit to put on my cheeks to appear to more advantage in the eyes of my beloved husband!"
She opened the box but noticed nothing inside - certainly not the wondrous beauty that had been described and detailed previously. The box, however, was not empty. Inside, now released from Psyche having opened the box, was The Stygian sleep, a dark infernal slumber now free of its boxed prison. The Stygian sleep immediately overtook Psyche and she fell limp, right in the middle of the road, her body so still it was like a corpse without any signs of movement or life.
Cupid, finally healed from his wound, slipped through a crack in the window of his chamber and, unable to suffer the absense of Psyche longer, he flew to the place where Psyche lay collapsed. He drew the sleep up and away from her, gathering it together and putting it back in the box. He touched Psyche lightly with one of his arrows. "Again," said he, "have you almost perished by the same curiosity. But now perform exactly the task imposed on you by my mother, and I will take care of the rest."
With lightning speed, Cupid then ascended, striking upward to the heavens and brought a heartfelt, despreate story before Jupiter/Jove (Greek, Zeus). Thus, Jove was compelled to assist, so he pleaded the lovers' case very soundly with his wife, Juno (Greek, Hera) until he finally gained her consent, as well. An agreement made, Jove sent the messenger, Mercury (Greek, Hermes), forth to fetch Psyche and bring her to the heavens. Once she arrived, Jove provided her with a cup of ambrosia (only meant for the gods), and said, "Drink this, Psyche, and be immortal; nor shall Cupid ever break away from the knot in which he is tied, but these nuptials shall be perpetual."
In this way and after all this time and many trials, Psyche and Cupid became united in love. Their pairing brought forth a child and they were very happy finally. Their child was named 'Pleasure.'
Saturday, June 16, 2007
The last part is like a different Fairy Tale
The final portion of the Cupid and Psyche story is very much like a different Fairy Tale you might be familiar with...
One with a poor young woman who is treated like a slave...
I'll be back to post the final portion of Cupid and Psyche soon.
Until then, you can get your thinking cap on and get ready to guess which other Fairy Tale (with an animal helper) springs from Cupid and Psyche...
One with a poor young woman who is treated like a slave...
I'll be back to post the final portion of Cupid and Psyche soon.
Until then, you can get your thinking cap on and get ready to guess which other Fairy Tale (with an animal helper) springs from Cupid and Psyche...
Return To Cupid and Psyche
The place in the story where I left off was where Psyche had gone into the ornate palace, been shown around and seated to a spectacular feast - but she hadn't yet seen her new husband...
During this first night in the palace, Psyche dines and still does not 'see' her husband, however, he visits her, speaks to her - under cover of darkness, from standing in the shadows. He expressly asks her not to make attempts to look upon him, to 'see' him, and he speaks affectionately enough to Psyche and she is unafraid. She asks, from time to time, that her husband allow her to see what he looks like but he refuses this request
"Why should you wish to behold me?" he said. "Have you any doubt of my love? Have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore me, but all I ask of you is to love me. I would rather you would love me as an equal than adore me as a god."
He dashes away before the morning dawn's light appears.
These words sufficed for a while to excuse her new husband's behavior - and the wonderful novelty of the palace and its glitter kept Psyche distracted and reasonably content for a while. She was quite happy for a while, and her husband continued to speak with love in his voice, respect in his words - even though she still could not look upon his face. After a time, however, Psyche began to miss her family - who could not know all this while of her fate - or that she actually was enjoying such splendid circumstances, and she wished she could share the delights of the palace with them. Pretty soon, the ornate palace began to feel like a prison.
Finally, she expressed her concerns and her unhappiness to her husband one evening and he consented to allow Psyche's sisters to be brought to the palace to see her, though this consent was not easily won.
Psyche summoned Zephyr and so Zephyr could become accustomed to her husband's commands, so they rode Zephyr down through the mountains and into the sisters' valley. The sisters embraced Psyche and she returned their caresses.
"Come," said Psyche, "enter with me my house and refresh yourselves with whatever your sister has to offer."
Taking the sisters' hands, Psyche led them to the palace, made them familiar and comfortable with the surroundings, and committed them to the care of the attendant voices. The sisters were able to bathe in luxurious surroundings to refresh themselves then join Psyche at her table and Psyche continued to show them the treasures of the palace. The sisters were taken with a certain jealousy at their younger sister's good fortune and the splendor all around, which much exceeded their own.
They asked a seemingly unending stream of questions, in addition to being curious as to where Psyche's new husband was. She answered by saying that he was a beautiful youth who spent most of his days hunting in the mountains. This answer didn't satisfy the sisters and they finally pulled from Psyche the truth that she hadn't actually ever seen her husband. To this, the sisters talked negatively, filling their young sister with worries and dark suspicions. They reminded their sister that the Pythian oracle had said she would marry a "direful and tremendous monster!"
They warned Psyche that the rumours about the village said that this husband was only nourishing Psyche and keeping her happy until it was time for him to devour her! They request that Psyche start arming herself with a sharp knife for protection and a lamp by which to see. They tell her to hide these items in her room until her husband's next visit. Psyche was instructed to wait until her husband fell asleep - then to take the lamp and look at him to see whether he was, indeed, and beautiful youth - or rather - a hideous monster:
"...when he is sound asleep, slip out of bed, bring forth your lamp, and see for yourself whether what they say is true or not. If it is, hesitate not to cut off the monster's head, and thereby recover your liberty."
Psyche struggled to erase these thoughts from her mind but they just wouldn't go away. Once her sisters were gone, she couldn't resist playing over in her mind what had been said and suggested. She gathered a knife and lamp and hid them in her room. When her husband fell asleep, she quickly grabbed the lamp and shone it toward him and beheld...
The most beautiful and charming looking God with golden ringlets draped over a snowy white neck and crimson cheeks. She saw two dewy wings at his shoulders, whiter than snow, with shining feathers like the tender blossoms of spring. So taken up by his beauty, Psyche leaned forward with the lamp to gain a better view. A drop of burning oil from the lamp fell on the god's shoulder.
Startled, he opened his eyes and fixed them upon Psyche's face. Without a word, he spread his white wings and flew out the window. So caught up in the moment, Psyche tried to follow. She reached the window and outward toward him and toppled from the window - all the way to the ground...
During this first night in the palace, Psyche dines and still does not 'see' her husband, however, he visits her, speaks to her - under cover of darkness, from standing in the shadows. He expressly asks her not to make attempts to look upon him, to 'see' him, and he speaks affectionately enough to Psyche and she is unafraid. She asks, from time to time, that her husband allow her to see what he looks like but he refuses this request
"Why should you wish to behold me?" he said. "Have you any doubt of my love? Have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore me, but all I ask of you is to love me. I would rather you would love me as an equal than adore me as a god."
He dashes away before the morning dawn's light appears.
These words sufficed for a while to excuse her new husband's behavior - and the wonderful novelty of the palace and its glitter kept Psyche distracted and reasonably content for a while. She was quite happy for a while, and her husband continued to speak with love in his voice, respect in his words - even though she still could not look upon his face. After a time, however, Psyche began to miss her family - who could not know all this while of her fate - or that she actually was enjoying such splendid circumstances, and she wished she could share the delights of the palace with them. Pretty soon, the ornate palace began to feel like a prison.
Finally, she expressed her concerns and her unhappiness to her husband one evening and he consented to allow Psyche's sisters to be brought to the palace to see her, though this consent was not easily won.
Psyche summoned Zephyr and so Zephyr could become accustomed to her husband's commands, so they rode Zephyr down through the mountains and into the sisters' valley. The sisters embraced Psyche and she returned their caresses.
"Come," said Psyche, "enter with me my house and refresh yourselves with whatever your sister has to offer."
Taking the sisters' hands, Psyche led them to the palace, made them familiar and comfortable with the surroundings, and committed them to the care of the attendant voices. The sisters were able to bathe in luxurious surroundings to refresh themselves then join Psyche at her table and Psyche continued to show them the treasures of the palace. The sisters were taken with a certain jealousy at their younger sister's good fortune and the splendor all around, which much exceeded their own.
They asked a seemingly unending stream of questions, in addition to being curious as to where Psyche's new husband was. She answered by saying that he was a beautiful youth who spent most of his days hunting in the mountains. This answer didn't satisfy the sisters and they finally pulled from Psyche the truth that she hadn't actually ever seen her husband. To this, the sisters talked negatively, filling their young sister with worries and dark suspicions. They reminded their sister that the Pythian oracle had said she would marry a "direful and tremendous monster!"
They warned Psyche that the rumours about the village said that this husband was only nourishing Psyche and keeping her happy until it was time for him to devour her! They request that Psyche start arming herself with a sharp knife for protection and a lamp by which to see. They tell her to hide these items in her room until her husband's next visit. Psyche was instructed to wait until her husband fell asleep - then to take the lamp and look at him to see whether he was, indeed, and beautiful youth - or rather - a hideous monster:
"...when he is sound asleep, slip out of bed, bring forth your lamp, and see for yourself whether what they say is true or not. If it is, hesitate not to cut off the monster's head, and thereby recover your liberty."
Psyche struggled to erase these thoughts from her mind but they just wouldn't go away. Once her sisters were gone, she couldn't resist playing over in her mind what had been said and suggested. She gathered a knife and lamp and hid them in her room. When her husband fell asleep, she quickly grabbed the lamp and shone it toward him and beheld...
The most beautiful and charming looking God with golden ringlets draped over a snowy white neck and crimson cheeks. She saw two dewy wings at his shoulders, whiter than snow, with shining feathers like the tender blossoms of spring. So taken up by his beauty, Psyche leaned forward with the lamp to gain a better view. A drop of burning oil from the lamp fell on the god's shoulder.
Startled, he opened his eyes and fixed them upon Psyche's face. Without a word, he spread his white wings and flew out the window. So caught up in the moment, Psyche tried to follow. She reached the window and outward toward him and toppled from the window - all the way to the ground...
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Cupid And Psyche Basis For Other Tales
Did you guess that the ancient Cupid and Psyche (or, 'Eros and Psyche') story is the backbone of some other well-known, well-loved pieces?
Does Psyche remind you of any more modern character?
What about the 'voices' and the treatment Psyche receives in the castle?
She is given all manner of exquisite and attractive items, foods, treatment and entertainment.
This should remind you of something that Disney has had out for almost 20 years (in 'new animation' on film - and much longer than 20 years in the Disney Classic storybooks for children)! In a Fairy Tale that most people think is quite new!
Does Psyche remind you of any more modern character?
What about the 'voices' and the treatment Psyche receives in the castle?
She is given all manner of exquisite and attractive items, foods, treatment and entertainment.
This should remind you of something that Disney has had out for almost 20 years (in 'new animation' on film - and much longer than 20 years in the Disney Classic storybooks for children)! In a Fairy Tale that most people think is quite new!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Cupid and Psyche (Is This Familiar?)
(Roman deity names)
It is said that long ago a particular couple of quite some status (A king and queen) had 3 daughters - of which, the youngest was breathtakingly beautiful. The two older daughters were charming and attractive enough, however, this youngest daughter's beauty was without sufficient words to describe.
Strangers from neighboring areas would flock to pay her the kind of honour usually reserved for only Venus (Greek, Aphrodite) herself - to the extent that Venus' altars were often deserted while people offered praise and song to the young maiden.
Naturally, this offended Venus, who demanded, "Am I to be eclipsed in my honors by a mortal girl?" Venus soon asserted, "[...she shall not so quietly usurp my honors. I will give her cause to repent of so unlawful a beauty."
Venus called her winged son, Cupid (Greek, Eros) - the mischievous one, and made heavy complaint to him. She pointed out Psyche, saying, "My dear son, punish that contumacious beauty; give thy mother a revenge as sweet as her injuries are great; infuse into the bosom of that haughty girl a passion for some low, mean, unworthy being, so that she may reap a mortification as great as her present exultation and triumph."
Cupid obediently filled two amber vases from each two fountains within Venus' garden - one with flowing sweet waters, and one fountain of bitter water. He rushed to the chamber that Psyche frequented, but found her asleep. He placed a few drops from the bitter fountain to Psyche's lips though the view of her sleeping in all her unaware beauty moved him to pity. Still, he touched one of his arrows to her side and at this, she awoke.
So startled was Cupid at being under Psyche's sudden, awakened gaze, that he started, jabbing himself with his own arrow.
Despite his wound, his concern was entirely for undoing the mischief he had just started with Psyche, and he poured drops of the sweet water, drops of joy, all over Psyche's silken ringlets to counteract the effects of the bitter water.
Because Psyche's beauty overpowered the instructions Venus gave to her son, Venus was additionally insulted and enraged. Psyche's parents became actuely aware of this and they feared the anger of the Goddess, so they went to consult the oracle of Apollo on this matter. The oracle gave this answer:
"The virgin is destined for the bride of no mortal lover. Her future husband awaits her on the top of the mountain. He is a monster whom neither gods nor men can resist."
The awful decree of the oracle filled everyone with dismay and her parents grieved with abandon.
Psyche asked, "Why, dear parents, do you now lament me? You should rather have grieved when the people showered upon me undeserved honors, and with one voice called me Venus. I now perceive that I am a victim to that name. I submit. Lead me to that rock to which my unhappy fate has destined me."
The people prepared a procession and the royal maid took up her place within it, though it resembled a funeral procession much more than a nuptial occasion. Together, with her parents, family and community, Psyche ascended the mountain. On the summit everyone left her alone, with sadness in their hearts and they returned home.
As Psyche stood atop the mountain consumed with fear, her eyes brimming with tears, the gentle Zephyr (Or, Zephyrus, sometimes Favonius in Roman) lifted her from the earth and carried her effortlessly into a flowery dale. Gradually, she was able to compose her mind and she lay herself down on the grassy bank to sleep. When she awoke, refreshed, she looked around, spotting a grove of tall, magnificent trees and walked toward it.
Entering the grove, she walked until she encountered a fountain which spouted crystal-clear waters. Nearby, a spectacular and impressive palace loomed, which she took to be unlike the work from any mortal hands. Drawn to the palace, she couldn't stop her urge to enter. Every object within filled her with wonder, the golden pillars supporting the vaulted roof, the carved and richly painted walls, the scenarios of beasts of the chase and rural scenes in the paintings themselves all served to charm her immeasurably.
As she walked further into the building, she perceived that other rooms would also present all manner of treasure, beautiful and precious productions of nature and
art, and so she continued on.
Finally, a voice addressed her then became many - though she could see no sources of the words:
"Sovereign lady, all that you see is yours. We whose voices you hear are your servants and shall obey all your commands with out utmost care and diligence. Retire, therefore, to your chamber and repose on your bed of down, and when you see fit repair to the bath. Supper awaits you in the adjoining alcove when it pleases you to take your seat there."
Psyche gave ear to the admonitions of her attendants, though mere voices with no form. After repost and refreshing herself with a bath, she seated herself in the alcove where a table immediately presented itself - strangely, with no aid from visible waiters or servants. It was covered with the tenderest and greatest food delicacies, including the finest wines. Music played, as well, feeding her ears from invisible sources, including a lute and the wonderful harmony of a full chorus.
[Does this remind you of another, more modern story?]
It is said that long ago a particular couple of quite some status (A king and queen) had 3 daughters - of which, the youngest was breathtakingly beautiful. The two older daughters were charming and attractive enough, however, this youngest daughter's beauty was without sufficient words to describe.
Strangers from neighboring areas would flock to pay her the kind of honour usually reserved for only Venus (Greek, Aphrodite) herself - to the extent that Venus' altars were often deserted while people offered praise and song to the young maiden.
Naturally, this offended Venus, who demanded, "Am I to be eclipsed in my honors by a mortal girl?" Venus soon asserted, "[...she shall not so quietly usurp my honors. I will give her cause to repent of so unlawful a beauty."
Venus called her winged son, Cupid (Greek, Eros) - the mischievous one, and made heavy complaint to him. She pointed out Psyche, saying, "My dear son, punish that contumacious beauty; give thy mother a revenge as sweet as her injuries are great; infuse into the bosom of that haughty girl a passion for some low, mean, unworthy being, so that she may reap a mortification as great as her present exultation and triumph."
Cupid obediently filled two amber vases from each two fountains within Venus' garden - one with flowing sweet waters, and one fountain of bitter water. He rushed to the chamber that Psyche frequented, but found her asleep. He placed a few drops from the bitter fountain to Psyche's lips though the view of her sleeping in all her unaware beauty moved him to pity. Still, he touched one of his arrows to her side and at this, she awoke.
So startled was Cupid at being under Psyche's sudden, awakened gaze, that he started, jabbing himself with his own arrow.
Despite his wound, his concern was entirely for undoing the mischief he had just started with Psyche, and he poured drops of the sweet water, drops of joy, all over Psyche's silken ringlets to counteract the effects of the bitter water.
Because Psyche's beauty overpowered the instructions Venus gave to her son, Venus was additionally insulted and enraged. Psyche's parents became actuely aware of this and they feared the anger of the Goddess, so they went to consult the oracle of Apollo on this matter. The oracle gave this answer:
"The virgin is destined for the bride of no mortal lover. Her future husband awaits her on the top of the mountain. He is a monster whom neither gods nor men can resist."
The awful decree of the oracle filled everyone with dismay and her parents grieved with abandon.
Psyche asked, "Why, dear parents, do you now lament me? You should rather have grieved when the people showered upon me undeserved honors, and with one voice called me Venus. I now perceive that I am a victim to that name. I submit. Lead me to that rock to which my unhappy fate has destined me."
The people prepared a procession and the royal maid took up her place within it, though it resembled a funeral procession much more than a nuptial occasion. Together, with her parents, family and community, Psyche ascended the mountain. On the summit everyone left her alone, with sadness in their hearts and they returned home.
As Psyche stood atop the mountain consumed with fear, her eyes brimming with tears, the gentle Zephyr (Or, Zephyrus, sometimes Favonius in Roman) lifted her from the earth and carried her effortlessly into a flowery dale. Gradually, she was able to compose her mind and she lay herself down on the grassy bank to sleep. When she awoke, refreshed, she looked around, spotting a grove of tall, magnificent trees and walked toward it.
Entering the grove, she walked until she encountered a fountain which spouted crystal-clear waters. Nearby, a spectacular and impressive palace loomed, which she took to be unlike the work from any mortal hands. Drawn to the palace, she couldn't stop her urge to enter. Every object within filled her with wonder, the golden pillars supporting the vaulted roof, the carved and richly painted walls, the scenarios of beasts of the chase and rural scenes in the paintings themselves all served to charm her immeasurably.
As she walked further into the building, she perceived that other rooms would also present all manner of treasure, beautiful and precious productions of nature and
art, and so she continued on.
Finally, a voice addressed her then became many - though she could see no sources of the words:
"Sovereign lady, all that you see is yours. We whose voices you hear are your servants and shall obey all your commands with out utmost care and diligence. Retire, therefore, to your chamber and repose on your bed of down, and when you see fit repair to the bath. Supper awaits you in the adjoining alcove when it pleases you to take your seat there."
Psyche gave ear to the admonitions of her attendants, though mere voices with no form. After repost and refreshing herself with a bath, she seated herself in the alcove where a table immediately presented itself - strangely, with no aid from visible waiters or servants. It was covered with the tenderest and greatest food delicacies, including the finest wines. Music played, as well, feeding her ears from invisible sources, including a lute and the wonderful harmony of a full chorus.
[Does this remind you of another, more modern story?]
Monday, March 26, 2007
The Olympians
(Most??) Prominent Account of Who They Olympians Are:
The Olympians are usually considered as 12 deities, or 'The
Twelve' deities who interacted directly with mankind. Their
parents were not typically known to interact directly in human
affairs, however, the Olympians certainly did, to a startling
degree. Zeus had several sexual liasons with human females,
creating demi-gods/goddesses (half-deity and half-human) who
had mortal lives accompanied by some special, supernatural
'powers.'
The Olympians are 6 main siblings, headed by Zeus in the
dominant 'leader' role. What Zeus says, GOES...whenever Zeus
can clearly make up his mind - and if he doesn't change his mind
too often!
Zeus' SISTERS: Hera, Demeter, Hestia.
Zeus' BROTHERS: Poseidon and Hades.
Altogether, the largely accepted siblings are Zeus, Hera,
Demeter, Hestia, Poseidon, and Hades.
To round out the twelve, six of Hera and Zeus' children are
counted: Apollo and Artemis, Athena (reputed to be Zeus' favorite), Hephaestus (least liked by Zeus), Ares, and Hermes.
What about Aphrodite, you ask? Yeah........ she's in there - but
we already have 12 Olympians. There's no room for more. Mount
Olympus is FULL ALREADY!
Okay - so let's regroup these Olympia-based deities then:
How 'bout......Zeus and Hera, with their kids - or Zeus' kids along
with Hera's kids:
Aphrodite, Dionysus, Athena, Apollo and Artemis, Hephaestus,
Ares, Hermes..........wait a minute.....that's EIGHT kids...
Yeah I know, I know - it's confusing isn't it?
Okay - THE TWELVE OLYMPIANS - final answer:
Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Hestia, Aphrodite, Hades, Apollo and Artemis, Athena, Hephaestus, Ares, Hermes, Dionysus (He is Zeus' son) - there you have it - the most common list of 14 of the TWELVE OLYMPIANS!
Yeah - I know, I know, again...it appears that I cannot count.
All I can say is.....
GET USED TO IT.
Make a choice...pick two deities and toss them OUT for now -
add them back in later when the 'myth' accounts require them!
That's all I can say. I cannot decide WHO of the 14 deities is
TRUE OLYMPIAN....they all are, according to dozens of
mythological renderings. I cannot say which 12 of the 14 are
MOST IMPORTANT.....because they all are.
As a really long strettttttttch of a notion, one may say that
because one of Zeus' daughters was born from his body (from his thigh) without a mother, that 'birth' is considered OUT...and take 1 other of the 12 'births' away because Apollo and Artemis are TWINS so there was only 1 birth experience.....that will get you to 12 instances of Olympians created.
No - this last part (about taking 2 away due to only 12 'birthing'
experiences) is NOT in a text-book - it was an explanation offered
by a peer during READING WEEK at the University when we
were collectively CRAMMING for mid-terms in
Mythology/Classics! As far as explanations go - you'll find that
it makes MORE SENSE than some of the ancient Greek
explanations or compared to instances where no explanations at
all can be found for deities who suddenly pop up where least
expected. Actually - the far-fetched explanation is almost 'Greek/myth' itself because it is INCONSISTENT with the fact that one account of another of Zeus' children, 'birthed' from his body alone tells of a daughter being born from a split in his head.....as if he 'thought her up??' LOL So.......then we can take away another 'birth' that wasn't 'regular' and have only 11 Olympians!
Yeah - I don't like that last bit, either - it's EASIER to just accept
that there are more than Twelve original Olympians, call them
"THE TWELVE" and move along to the GOOD STUFF!
By the way, along with these 12-14 deities, there are also Hebe
("Youth"), Eileithyia, Phobos, Deimos, Harmonia, and Eros
included under this Olympian family tree!
Don't check these latter folk out yet 'cos they're likely to damage
your sensibilities as they come from brother-sister unions,
mother-brother unions...........yeah, it all gets very complicated
FAST!
Actually - if you've read up to this point, you're probably
confused as all heck. This is about enough information for one
sitting!
More on the Olympians next time. I'll post about what the
Olympians were 'in charge of' - example, Zeus plays a leader and
father role, Hera's concerns were for 'the family,' Poseidon ruled
the seas, etc...
The Olympians are usually considered as 12 deities, or 'The
Twelve' deities who interacted directly with mankind. Their
parents were not typically known to interact directly in human
affairs, however, the Olympians certainly did, to a startling
degree. Zeus had several sexual liasons with human females,
creating demi-gods/goddesses (half-deity and half-human) who
had mortal lives accompanied by some special, supernatural
'powers.'
The Olympians are 6 main siblings, headed by Zeus in the
dominant 'leader' role. What Zeus says, GOES...whenever Zeus
can clearly make up his mind - and if he doesn't change his mind
too often!
Zeus' SISTERS: Hera, Demeter, Hestia.
Zeus' BROTHERS: Poseidon and Hades.
Altogether, the largely accepted siblings are Zeus, Hera,
Demeter, Hestia, Poseidon, and Hades.
To round out the twelve, six of Hera and Zeus' children are
counted: Apollo and Artemis, Athena (reputed to be Zeus' favorite), Hephaestus (least liked by Zeus), Ares, and Hermes.
What about Aphrodite, you ask? Yeah........ she's in there - but
we already have 12 Olympians. There's no room for more. Mount
Olympus is FULL ALREADY!
Okay - so let's regroup these Olympia-based deities then:
How 'bout......Zeus and Hera, with their kids - or Zeus' kids along
with Hera's kids:
Aphrodite, Dionysus, Athena, Apollo and Artemis, Hephaestus,
Ares, Hermes..........wait a minute.....that's EIGHT kids...
Yeah I know, I know - it's confusing isn't it?
Okay - THE TWELVE OLYMPIANS - final answer:
Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Hestia, Aphrodite, Hades, Apollo and Artemis, Athena, Hephaestus, Ares, Hermes, Dionysus (He is Zeus' son) - there you have it - the most common list of 14 of the TWELVE OLYMPIANS!
Yeah - I know, I know, again...it appears that I cannot count.
All I can say is.....
GET USED TO IT.
Make a choice...pick two deities and toss them OUT for now -
add them back in later when the 'myth' accounts require them!
That's all I can say. I cannot decide WHO of the 14 deities is
TRUE OLYMPIAN....they all are, according to dozens of
mythological renderings. I cannot say which 12 of the 14 are
MOST IMPORTANT.....because they all are.
As a really long strettttttttch of a notion, one may say that
because one of Zeus' daughters was born from his body (from his thigh) without a mother, that 'birth' is considered OUT...and take 1 other of the 12 'births' away because Apollo and Artemis are TWINS so there was only 1 birth experience.....that will get you to 12 instances of Olympians created.
No - this last part (about taking 2 away due to only 12 'birthing'
experiences) is NOT in a text-book - it was an explanation offered
by a peer during READING WEEK at the University when we
were collectively CRAMMING for mid-terms in
Mythology/Classics! As far as explanations go - you'll find that
it makes MORE SENSE than some of the ancient Greek
explanations or compared to instances where no explanations at
all can be found for deities who suddenly pop up where least
expected. Actually - the far-fetched explanation is almost 'Greek/myth' itself because it is INCONSISTENT with the fact that one account of another of Zeus' children, 'birthed' from his body alone tells of a daughter being born from a split in his head.....as if he 'thought her up??' LOL So.......then we can take away another 'birth' that wasn't 'regular' and have only 11 Olympians!
Yeah - I don't like that last bit, either - it's EASIER to just accept
that there are more than Twelve original Olympians, call them
"THE TWELVE" and move along to the GOOD STUFF!
By the way, along with these 12-14 deities, there are also Hebe
("Youth"), Eileithyia, Phobos, Deimos, Harmonia, and Eros
included under this Olympian family tree!
Don't check these latter folk out yet 'cos they're likely to damage
your sensibilities as they come from brother-sister unions,
mother-brother unions...........yeah, it all gets very complicated
FAST!
Actually - if you've read up to this point, you're probably
confused as all heck. This is about enough information for one
sitting!
More on the Olympians next time. I'll post about what the
Olympians were 'in charge of' - example, Zeus plays a leader and
father role, Hera's concerns were for 'the family,' Poseidon ruled
the seas, etc...
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