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dimi_pat

Active member
I've recently found myself deeply fascinated with how ancient myths and legends have influenced modern traditions and events, particularly those with a global following. Among these, the Olympic Games stand out as a prime example of ancient traditions influencing contemporary world culture. I'm eager to learn more about the mythological roots of the Olympic Games and thought this would be the perfect community to turn to for insights.

From what I understand, the origins of the Olympics are deeply intertwined with Greek mythology. The games were held in Olympia, a sanctuary site for Greek gods, and featured various competitions and rituals dedicated to Zeus, the sky and thunder god in ancient Greek religion. However, my knowledge of how these mythological aspects directly influenced the establishment and evolution of the Olympic Games feels quite superficial.
 
I've recently found myself deeply fascinated with how ancient myths and legends have influenced modern traditions and events, particularly those with a global following. Among these, the Olympic Games stand out as a prime example of ancient traditions influencing contemporary world culture. I'm eager to learn more about the mythological roots of the Olympic Games and thought this would be the perfect community to turn to for insights.

From what I understand, the origins of the Olympics are deeply intertwined with Greek mythology. The games were held in Olympia, a sanctuary site for Greek gods, and featured various competitions and rituals dedicated to Zeus, the sky and thunder god in ancient Greek religion. However, my knowledge of how these mythological aspects directly influenced the establishment and evolution of the Olympic Games feels quite superficial.

This is true! From what I understand:

The Olympic Games were seen as a way for mortals to connect with the divine. Victors were immortalized in poems and statues, their feats a tribute to the gods themselves. The belief was that through physical prowess, one could achieve closeness to the divine, embodying the virtues and strengths of the gods they honored.
 

Halcyon Days December 14-28.

The ancient Greeks called the seven days preceding and the seven days following the Winter Solstice the "Halcyon Days." According to one legend, the halcyon bird, or kingfisher, nested during this period. Because she built her nest on the water, the gods granted her a respite from storms and high seas so that she could hatch and rear her young.
But Greek mythology has it that Halcyone (or Alcyone), Ceyx's wife and one of Aeolus's daughters, drowned herself when she learned her husband had drowned. The gods took pity on her and transformed them both into kingfishers, and Zeus commanded the seas to be still during these days. Thus it was considered a period when sailors could navigate in safety.
Today, the expression "halcyon days" has come to mean a period of tranquillity, often used as a nostalgic reference to times past.
Fascinating isn't it!....I see Kingfishers every day, ferocious speed for diving into the sea and sweeping the fish away, gorgeous colours too, normally I see 2 different types.... Yasou apo mena from Thailand!❤️🤣

Thoughts on Oedipus Rex?

recently finished reading Oedipus Rex by Sophocles, and I’m curious to hear what others think about this classic tragedy.

For those who haven't read it, the story revolves around Oedipus, the King of Thebes, who is determined to rid his city of a plague by discovering and punishing the murderer of the previous king, Laius. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers harrowing truths about his own identity and his inadvertent fulfillment of a prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother.

It was an interesting read, to say the least. What do you guys think of it?

Most Interesting Love Stories of Greek Mythology?

I’m fascinated by the love stories in Greek mythology and would love to hear your thoughts on which ones you find the most interesting. Greek mythology is filled with tales of passion, tragedy, and romance, and I’m curious to know which stories stand out to you.

For example, I’m captivated by the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, with its themes of love and loss. But there are so many others—like the tragic fate of Pyramus and Thisbe or the complicated love between Aphrodite and Ares.

Which mythological love stories do you think are the most compelling, and why? Are there any lesser-known tales that you believe deserve more attention? I’m looking forward to exploring these stories further and hearing different perspectives on what makes them so timeless and intriguing.

Exploring the Myth of How Winter Began

Have you ever wondered how winter came to be, according to Greek mythology? One of the most beautiful and bittersweet stories from ancient Greece explains the changing seasons and the origin of winter through the myth of Demeter and Persephone.

The story goes that Hades, god of the underworld, abducted Persephone, the beloved daughter of Demeter, goddess of agriculture. In her grief, Demeter caused the earth to wither and grow barren, plunging the world into a harsh, cold season. Zeus eventually intervened, and a compromise was reached: Persephone would spend part of the year with her mother and the rest in the underworld as Hades’ queen.

When Persephone returns to Demeter, the earth blossoms into spring and summer. But when she descends to the underworld, Demeter mourns, and winter grips the land. This myth beautifully intertwines natural cycles with divine emotions. What are your thoughts on this story?

Furies of Greek Mythology?

I've been reading a lot about ancient Greek mythology recently, and I came across the Furies. They seem like fascinating figures, but I'd love to learn more about them. Can anyone explain who the Furies were and what role they played in Greek mythology?

From what I understand, they were known to be vengeful spirits or deities, but I'm curious about their origins, specific myths they appear in, and how they were perceived by the ancient Greeks. Did they have any particular significance or symbolism?
Share and discuss Greek mythology!

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