►Mythology: “Charon, Ancient Greek God of The Underworld”:
“Charon” (1684/1686) by Luca Giordano. Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, Florence.-
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Charon (Χαρων) was the son of the primordial Gods Erebus (God of Darkness) and Nyx (Goddess of Light). The name Charon means ‘fierce brightness’ in Greek, and the Roman´s equivalent was Charus.
He was the ferryman of the dead, an underworld daimon (spirit) in the service of King Haides. He received the shades of the dead from Hermes who gathered them from the upper world and guided them to the shores of River Acheron.
The Acheron was also known as the River of Pain that flowed from the Styx and believed to carry pains intended for mortals back to earth. It also carried the good souls from the Underworld that were sent back to earth to be reincarnated as mortals.
Those who had not received due burial and were unable to pay his fee, would be left to wander the earthly side of the Acheron, haunting the upper world as ghosts.
Although Hermes might have taken the souls of the dead to the banks of the river for free, Charon demanded his fee.
From there Charon transported them in his skiff to a final resting place in Hades, the land of the dead, on the other side.
The fee for his service was a single obolos, a coin a silver coin worth a sixth of a drachma, which was placed in the mouth of a corpse at burial (It was known as Charon´s obol).
People who are unable to pay the fee are doomed to wander the shores of the river for a hundred years.
Since most Greeks, understandably, did not want to wander in the mists and marshes, they buried their dead with coins to pay the ferryman; this tradition is still retained in many parts of Greece.
Living people who want to visit Hades must also pay the ferryman.
Given the fact that they needed two trips, Charon charged significantly more, and several myths and stories indicate that visitors to Hades payed with a golden branch to cross the river and then return.
In the catabasis mytheme, some heroes – such as Heracles and Dionysus- travel to the Underworld and return, still alive, conveyed by the ferry of Charon.
Several Greek and Roman authors wrote about traveling to the Underworld, usually with the assistance of an experienced guide.
Dante, for example, wrote “The Inferno”, and “The Aeneid “by Virgil also features a trip to the Underworld.
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Obol from Greek Classical period (479-336 BC).-
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►The imaginary Map of Hades (the Underworld):
Map based on the most generally accepted version, as described in Greek Myths.-
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“Barque of Dante” (1822) by Eugene Delacroix. Musée du Louvre.-
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►Charon´ s Family Tree:
►Nyx´s Children of the Underworld:
Nyx, the goddess of darkness, was the mother of many of the Gods related to death and darkness. Some of them were the result of her union with Erebus.
The family members and genealogy of Charon are detailed in the following family tree, providing an overview of the relationships between Charon and some of the principle Greek gods and goddesses of death and the Underworld.
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►Genealogy of Charon: References:
♠Lyssa was the goddess of rage, fury and raging madness,
♠Moros was one of the primeval gods who was a son of Nyx was believed to be the mother of everything mysterious and anything that was inexplicable, such as death, disease, sleep, ghosts, dreams, witchcraft and enchantments. His father was Erebus, who reigned in a palace in the dark regions of the Underworld.
♠Momus was the Primordial Greek god of blame, censure and criticism.
♠Eris was the goddess of Discord, quarrels and feuds.
♠The Fates were three goddesses who were sisters.
Their names were: Klotho (Clotho), Lachesis and Atropos.
Klotho spinned the thread of life, Lachesis determined the length of the thread and Atropos cut the thread when the proper time came for death.
♠The Furies (Or Erynies) were three goddesses who avenged crimes against the natural order.
They were the three goddesses of vengeance: Tisiphone (avenger of murder), Megaera (the jealous) and Alecto (constant anger).
♠The Keres, or “Death Fates” were ‘scavengers who defiled the deads.
♠Hypnos was the god of Sleep who also brought nightmares to mortals.
♠The Oneiroi were Hypnos´ sons and were all gods of dreams: their names were Moorpheus, Icelus, and Phantasos (They were also cousins of Charon)
♠Oizys was the goddess of distress, anxiety and worry
♠Geras was the god of loathsome Old Age.
♠Epiphron was the daimon, titan, or god of prudence, shrewdness, thoughtfulness, sagacity, leadership, and carefulness
♠Nemesis was the avenging goddess of Divine Retribution.
♠Hecate was the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon and ghosts.
♠Thanatos was the God of Death, the hard-hearted, pitiless, enemy of mankind
♠Aether was the Protogenos (first-born elemental god) of the bright, glowing upper air of heaven – the substance of light
♠Hemera was the Protogenos (primeval goddess) of the day.
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“Paso de la Laguna Estigia” (1520/1524) by Joachim Patinir. Museo del Prado.-
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►Worth Reading: I recommend this post by author Luciana Cavallaro: “Death Has a Face” at Eternal Atlantis
“As Hades ruled the dead, he forbade any to leave and if anyone attempted to breakout or someone tried to steal one of the dead back, he threatened them. Heroes Herakles, Odysseus, Aeneas and Theseus were the only ones who entered the underworld and managed to escape”… Read More.
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►Slideshare: “Paintings based on Charon´s Myth”:
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►Links Post:
http://www.theoi.com/Khthoni os/Kharon.html
http://www.wisegeek.com/in-greek-mythology-who-is-charon.htm
http://mythology.wikia.com/wiki/Charon
http://www.pantheon.org/articles/c/charon.html
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/107610/Charon
http://www.tribunesandtriumphs.org/roman-gods/charon.htm
Aquileana
⚡️La Audacia de Aquiles⚡️ 
congrats on your awards Aquileana.I love this post,you have taught me some new things about the greel myths and gods,xx Rachel
You have been nominated Dear Speedy…
I have just left you a comment on your wordpress version of the blog.
Thanks for dropping by… I am glad that you enjoyed the post..
Best wishes to Speedy & Rachel, Aquileana 😉
Hullo to all anipals except snakies!
We is your elected Purrime Ministerettes of Planet Purrth serving all anipals except snakies!
We no has meows to express how HONORED we are that we was nominated for awards. We believed we was already award-winning enough, but da luv just won’t stop and we very happy and thankingful.
Inner pees is very impurrtant. We has the bestest inner pees after nomming a great white sharkie.
We thanking Cat Almighty in Heaven for creating great white sharkies!
All pweeze keep paws crossed as daddie went to Ukraine today! He diplomat for da Foreign Affairs and he there wiz four other diplomats, and we been giving him tips as for how to get inner pees in Ukraine!
Purrime Ministerettes salute all yous and thank for nominations!
XXXX
You are very welcome Shiva & Jaya…
I loved your comment !!!
By the way, I am still trying to figure out some meanings 😉
Happy weekend and best wishes,
Aquileana 🙂
Una reseña pormenorizada y precisa. Me interesó mucho el párrafo sobre las distintas tarifas que se le debía pagar al Dios del Submundo Caronte.
También el árbol genealógico me permitió reconocer el parentesco de Caronte con otros dioses de la oscuridad. Saludos. Eva.
Hola Eva;
Me alegro muchísimo de que te haya interesado el post.
La genealogía de Caronte también fue uno de los puntos que más inquiteud me produjo.
Buen fin de semana y mucho saludos,
Aquileana 😀
Purrime Ministerettes is very clear, is we not!
We ruling Planet Purrth. We does da state visits. We scheduled to has meeting wiz Popie Frank. He understanding us!
XXXX
I do understand you too…
By the way I speak the same native language than Popie Frank (Or Pope Francis, or Papa Francisco, as you wish ).
He is argentinian, like me
Best wishes, Aquileana 😛
We no shall cry for you Argentina! The truth is we shall ever serve you, also on bad days, during 9 existences! We shall keep our promise!
Argentina will never let you down, Shiva and Java… No doubts.
Best regards and blessings, Aquileana 🙂
oh gosh didn’t see Speedy’s name,thank you so much,xx Rachel and Speedy
You are very welcome, Rachel and Speedy.
Well deserved. Hugs, Aquileana 😛
GRACIAS por tener en cuenta mi blog , saludos¡¡
Muy merecido. Buen fin de semana y felicitaciones,
Aquileana 🙂
Igualmente, saludos
Your knowledge of mythology is astounding! I so love reading your interpretations of the stories you tell. They’re truly meaningful to me and to our modern world as well. Thank you for nominating me for this amazing award. It’s a new one for me and I’m very grateful. I do have several others I’m working on so it might take me a while to do it but I will. Congratulations to You too for receiving this great award. You certainly do deserve it for all the work you put into your blog posts. I always enjoy reading your work. 🙂
Thanks again,
Peace,
Steve
Hi there Steve,
Thanks for your kind words… I truly believee taht blogging is such a great way to exchange knowledge and thoughts… Those are my personal insights on topics I may find of interest . So when someone likes my posts It really makes me feel well.
As to the four awards nomination, you deserve it .. Your blog is uplifting and creative… I love gardening!
And , by the way, I will ask you for further information if I ever decide to built a greenhouse. okay?. Deal done?…
Best wishes and happy weekend , Aquileana 😉
It’s tough to find knowledgeable people on this classic myth, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about! Good post and photos. Thanks
Thanks for your kind word; Tim… I really appreciate them.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😉
Well there you have it – the underworld is a complex place! Maybe it makes my family issues seem easier?! Hehe. But seriously it is a really well-crafted blog post and I learned a lot about Charon. Too bad I didn’t get an award for Poetic Parfait though. Take care, Chris xo
Thanks @christybis for sharing this post at Twitter, Aquileana 😉
Hello Christy.
Thanks for dropping by to read and comment… I am glad that you enjoyed the post.
As to the nominations, I nominated bloggers that I hadn’ t nominated previously, so, well this is the main reason why I didn´t include you.
Happy weekend and best wishes,
Aquileana 🙂
Hi Aqui, thanks for the nice comment and for your lovely friendship! I hope your evening is going well 🙂 ((HUGS))
Hello Dear Chris…
Yes, I am doing well here in BA,
I have just had dinner. I hope you are doing well over there in BC too,
Many hugs to you, Aquileana 😛
I think it was a novel idea among the Greeks to have so many gods. At least you knew what god dealt with what 😛
How have you been?
Hi Makagatu,
I have been well and I hope you are doing great.
Yes you are right, they have too many gods and goddesses…
I believe that It is an interesting challenge to get to know them better…
Thanks for dropping by. I´ll visit your blog soon,
Best wishes, Aquileana 😀
I don’t know so many of them. There are a number in the Odyssey and they are likable.
Am doing great. Been a long time since you were seen around.
Yes, I have been checking out new blogs and quite busy too.. But I will catch up with you!…
Up Soon, Aquileana 😉
Aquileana, Impressive research, art and writing. I didn’t know the meaning of Charon before. Usually he’s just an extra in a story about someone else. He’s an interesting guy. Have a great weekend!! Brenda
Hi Brenda…
Indeed he hadn´t a main role in myths, mainly because he was related to Death and Darkness.
But years later an impressive writer such as Dante Alighieri would wrote about his realms in “Divina Commedia” (Inferno section)
Have a great weekend dear Brenda, hugs,
Aquileana 😀
😀 Hugs to you, too! Brenda
Oh my, I was just here reading about Charon, and missed that you’d nominated me! Thank you! I hope to post something in the next few days. Cheers, Brenda
It is okay honey… 😛
I´ll stay tuned to check out your updates.
Best wishes and hugs,
Aquileana 😉
I think it will come on Tuesday… 🙂
I will drop by your blog by then…
Good Luck and Up soon,
Aquileana 🙂
Aquileana, this is so interesting. Metaphorically speaking, Charon could symbolise human’s guilty conscience. The guilt experienced as having made ‘wrong’ or ‘unforgivable’ decisions in life, demand a ‘fee to be payed’. Yet is it really so? When I read about how Seneca in his tragedy ‘Hercules Furens’, Charon tells Hercules to halt, but the Greek hero uses his strength to gain passage, overpowering Charon with the boatman’s own pole, makes me think rational minds have the strength to ‘overcome’ guilt as Charon demands. I also read about Hermes as a ‘psychopomp’. In Jungian psychology, the psychopomp is a mediator between the unconscious and conscious realms. It is symbolically personified in dreams as a wise man or woman. This may include not only accompanying the soul of the dead, but also vice versa: to help at birth, to introduce the newborn child’s soul to the world. Can you further explain Hermes’ role as a ‘psychopomp’ and how ‘psychopomps’ came about?
Heracle’s 12th labour was to capture Cerberus, which in Greek and Roman mythology, is a multi-headed (usually three-headed) dog, or “hellhound” with a serpent’s tail, a mane of snakes, and a lion’s claws. He guards the entrance of the underworld to prevent the dead from escaping and the living from entering. Heracles found Hades and asked permission to bring Cerberus to the surface, to which Hades agreed if Heracles could overpower the beast without using weapons. (Symbolic eh?) Heracles was able to overpower Cerberus and proceeded to sling the beast over his back, dragging it out of the underworld.
Here are some quotes by Lucius Annaeus Seneca: “Successful and fortunate crime is called virtue”; “The first art of a monarch is the power to endure hatred”; “Things that were hard to bear are sweet to remember”. How do you think the Roman account of Heracles differs from the Greek?
Hello María…
I knew about Heracle´s 12th labour but not the specific details. Thanks for adding the myth here…
Firstly I would say that this is one of the excepcional cases in which a heroe that “travel to the Underworld and return, still alive, conveyed by the ferry of Charon” (as mentioned above in the post).
As to your questions I think that probably the main difference is that in the greek myth, Heracles had to accomplish a task without using weapons, which would entrain without draw upon violence…
Meanwhile, those quotes by Seneca might be subtly read as a call to weapons and / or violence.
Seneca enacted most of the most commonly accepted ideas of the cynics philosophers, so maybe he was being a little bit extreme and rad with those quotes.
By the way I found that ““The first art of a monarch is the power to endure hatred” could have been written by Machiavelli in his masterpiece, “The Prince”, ( Link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niccol%C3%B2_Machiavelli)
Best wishes and thanks for the excellent comment,
Aquileana 😀
Yes, I know those quotes by Seneca were violent and cynical; yet they represent an ‘overcoming’ of having to pay for the sinful deed, or ‘guilt’ demanded by Charon, by simply using one’s own inner and (outer strength as exemplified by Heracles), a person is able to ‘overcome’ this demand for guilt and remorse. So the Greek one is the less violent, thanks for clarifying that.
“The cynics represent an ‘overcoming’ of having to pay for the sinful deed, or ‘guilt’ demanded by Charon, by simply using one’s own inner and (outer strength as exemplified by Heracles), a person is able to ‘overcome’ this demand for guilt and remorse”.
You are the one you have perfectly clarified this for me.
As to the cynic approach it sound like a sort of
precedent of the idea of Christian guilt.
Not only God punishs but also the inner conscience does…
Best wishes and thanks dear María.Hugs
Aquileana
Hello there María…
I have found his interesting link about Psycochomps around the world and according to different cultures:
At http://www.psychopomps.org/psychopomp-guide.html
>As regrad to Hermes you can read there
“One of the most well-known psychopomps, Hermes is the ancient Greek trickster god who acts as a guide and messenger between the heavens and the underworld. He is also known as Mercury in Roman mythology”.
>As to your question regarding its definition here is an interesting one
A psychopomp is a guide, whose primary function is to escort souls to the afterlife, but they can also serve as guides through the various transitions of life.
At: http://www.psychopomps.org/what-is-a-psychopomp.html
>As to Charon as a psychpomp, it may be corerct as among other characteristics and functions we find number one which perfects apply to in his case
Psychopomps are generally:
1) adept at guiding others through such transformative experiences as death
2) experienced border crossers and walkers between the worlds
3) tricksters who will do whatever is required to achieve their goals
4) shapeshifters who can change their appearance to match the setting and the times
At : http://www.psychopomps.org/what-is-a-psychopomp.html
Best wishes and by the way that was a very clever question that let me know more about Jung´s concepts.
Happy week ahead,
Aquileana 😛
I love the link!!! Thanks so much!!!
Thank you for bringing such an interesting concept as Psycochomps into the spotlight …
I will have to write something about this topic one of these days.
Good night from BA Argentina, María. xo,
Aquileana 😛
Te felicito y agradezco.
Mi pasión hacia Grecia es muy grande.
Gracias Rubén. La nominación tuya es incuestionable y tu aporte a la causa Armenia y los derechos humanos, loable.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 🙂
El mejor premio es haber conocido tu sitio.
Un beso grande de un escorpiano a una gran escorpiana!
Felicidades por todo: artículo y premios. Y gracias por la nominación.
Muy merecida. Gracias por tus palabras, Josep.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 🙂
Es un placer visitar tu blog, y si encima nos haces esta distinción, pues… que estamos muy contentas y agradecidas. Abrazos 🙂
Gracias y es un gusto concederte esta humilde distinción. Te la mereces, Abrazos, Aquileana 🙂
Thank you so much for my first ever blog award nomination. I’m honoured! 🙂
Four awards in one nomination.
You totally deserve them…
Best Wishes,
Aquileana 😉
Aquileana, this was intriguing and nicely done, as always. I especially liked reading through the list of names and their meanings. By the way, Zoetic suits you since you’ve obviously got a lot of vitality to put together such highly detailed posts. Thank you for honoring me with these generous nominations.
Blessings ~ Wendy ❀
Hello dear Wendy;
Your thoughts mean a lot to me as you are such a great poet.
“Zoetic” may fiit me well, but that ´s not me every day, mind you… 😉
As to the four award, it has been a pleasure to nominate you.
Best wishes; Aquileana 😀
Dear Aquileana,
I thoroughly enjoyed this post. You’ve done so much research here. That Map of Hades and Family Tree of Nyx were especially new for me – saves me having to pore over several sources.
I also found interesting that reincarnation is part of Greek mythology, as I’ve always thought only the Eastern faiths such as Hinduism, Buddhism, etc held this belief.
Your posts never fail to amaze and educate.
Many thanks my dear,
Eric
P/s I’m tweeting this – more people must read 🙂
Thanks @EricAlagan for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 😀
Dear Eric;
Thanks a lot for your words.I appreciate them very much.
I got to agree with you as regard to the “spotlights”…
The geography of Hades was something I would have never expected to find out in a map…
As to Charon´s Genealogy that was also interesting and quite new for me. I enjoyed to see how some other God/Goddesses of the Underworld were linked to Charon´s mythological figure.
Also thank you for spreading the post out there;
Best wishes,
Aquileana 😛
J’admire ta profonde connaissance de la mythologie, Aquileana, l’article sur le dieu passeur, conducteur des âmes est excellent et si bien documenté et illustré.
Félicitations pour le Award, si mérité
Salut Elisabeth…
Merci beaucoup pour ton commentaire.
Je suis vraiment très touchée par tes mots.
Je vais essayer de te visiter aujourd´hui -ou sinon demain- pour lire les nouveaux articles dans ton blog…
Très cordialement; Aquileana 😛
Passe quand tu peux et quant tu veux, ce n’est pas une obligation 🙂
Ton français est excellent.
Beau dimanche Aquileana
Je sais, mais je veux m’arrêter là- bas pour lire, Elisabeth…
Ton dernier article “Pourquoi la femme fait peur ?” est vraiment interessant.
http://tarotpsychologique.wordpress.com/2014/04/23/pourquoi-la-femme-fait-peur/
Merci de l´ avoir partagé.
Bon dimanche pour toi aussi; Aquileana 🙂
Merci pour le lien et surtout pour ton merveilleux commentaire de cet article. Belle semaine, Aquileana
Allô Elisabeth,
C’était mon plaisir de m’arrêter pour lire ton blog.
Il est très intéressant et cultivé. Et Je veux lire encore beaucoup plus
Je te verrai là-bas prochainement… à bientôt,
Aquileana 😀
Le plaisir est partagé, Aquileana, j’adore la richesse du tien. Douce nuit et à bientôt
Oye!!! Estoy nominado!! Qué maravilla!
Muchas gracias… Y te felicito, lo mereces.
Que tengas un excelente día Mario,
Saludos, con afecto, Aquileana 🙂
As Italian, I am well acquainted with the mith of “Caron dimonio, con gli occhi di bragia” as we study both Dante and Virgil at school. However I ‘ve found very interesting information here and I really appreciate your accuracy. A presto.
Stefy
🙂
Sono felice che si tia piaciuto! Stefy… Thanks a lot for your words…It is always nice to have you here.
Arrivederci et saluti, Aquileana 🙂
Srta. Aquileana:
Una de las cosas que adoro de tus posts son las ilustraciones. He permanecido varios minutos (y todas las veces que entré al blog) contemplando el mapa (¿para saber cómo regresar, quizás?) y las obras inspiradas en Caronte (las de Gustave Doré son mis favoritas).
Además ¡me nominaste! Gracias por eso y por tu generosidad.
Beso. 🙂
Verónica, me alegro mucho de que te haya gustado el post y las obras sobre Caronte. Muchas gracias por tus palabras.
En cuanto a la nominación, es absolutamente merecida… Felicitaciones.
Abrazos, Aquileana 🙂
Hello Dear Aquileana, very enjoyable and interesting post! I’m reminded of book 10 of Homer’s Odyssey, http://www.theoi.com/Text/HomerOdyssey10.html
where Odysseus pilots his own ship to Hades, not having to deal with Charon, probably because Charon is only ferrying dead people, lol, and Odysseus must go in and come back out alive:
[503] “So I spoke, and the beautiful goddess straightway made answer: `Son of Laertes, sprung from Zeus, Odysseus of many devices, let there be in thy mind no concern for a pilot to guide thy ship, but set up thy mast, and spread the white sail, and sit thee down; and the breath of the North Wind will bear her onward. But when in thy ship thou hast now crossed the stream of Oceanus, where is a level shore and the groves of Persephone —tall poplars, and willows that shed their fruit—there do thou beach thy ship by the deep eddying Oceanus, but go thyself to the dank house of Hades. There into Acheron flow Periphlegethon and Cocytus, which is a branch of the water of the Styx; and there is a rock, and the meeting place of the two roaring rivers. Thither, prince, do thou draw nigh, as I bid thee, and dig a pit of a cubit’s length this way and that, and around it pour a libation to all the dead, first with milk and honey, thereafter with sweet wine, and in the third place with water, and sprinkle thereon white barley meal.
I Love this stuff! Thanks so much for another wonderful post and for sharing with us your interests and your answers to the awards, Congratulations! And thanks so much for nominating me, too! ♥♥♥ ;^)
Hello Aisha,
Great contribution here dear friend.
As a matter of fact I have found an alternativa version of the Hades ‘ map based on this same book X. Homer’ s description is Really graphic, isn’ t It?…
Check out the link below here.
Map 13: the rivers of Hades, the Underworld (Phlegethon, Styx, Cocytus, Acheron and Ocean). Phlegethon (or Piriphlegethon) is a river of fire. Pure mythography.
http://www.adnax.com/classical/writers/homer/odyssey/odysseymaps2.htm
So at the end, Odysseus made It through and was able to go the underworld and return back safe…. Well seen, how wouldn’t he have succeded if not for being a hero?
As to the nomination, you so deserve It!, no Wonder why you are awesome!!
Happy sunday and Hugs to you,
Aquileana 🙂
Thanks @AishasOasis for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
This is great! I think you might quickly become my go-to person for Greek mythology 🙂
Helo John…
Thanks a lot for dropping by to take a peaka and comment. Hopefully you will be able to get a deeper approach on Greek Myths and Philosophy. It would be my pleasure to become your go-to person in that sense.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😛
Interesantes sus artìculos, lamentablemente están en inglés, que no leo.¿Puede enviármelos en castellano?
Gracias.Oscar Leyes.
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2014 16:33:14 +0000
To: oscarleyes@hotmail.com
Hola Oscar, Puedo enviarte una versión de la traducción del traductor de Google, no es lo mejor, pero por el momento no dispongo de tiempo como para trabajar sobre una versión en castellano.
Gracias por tu interés. Muchos saludos, Aquileana 😛
Thanks @LosSentidosVida for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
Thanks @SylvesterPoetry for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquieana 🙂
You have written an in-depth, informative post. Very interesting … Thank you for your visit and the follow. Kind regards, Iris.
Thank you PoetSmith for dropping by to read and comment.
It is my pleasure to follow your blog…I ´ll stay tuned in order to check out your updates.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😀
He leído este post con mucho detenimiento porque me gusta mucho la mitología griega. Es una entrada cuidada y llena de novedades, pues no conocía ni el mapa ni el árbol genealógico. Enhorabuena.
Muchas gracias por nominarme en ese premio.
Un abraxzo.
Gracias por tus palabras, Julia. Me alegro mucho de que te haya resultado interesante este post.
La nominación te la mereces, felicitaciones.
Muchos saludos, Aquileana 🙂
Es interesante este post y todos los que haces, de verdad, te admiro y te leo, aunque algunas veces entre despacito y no deje rastro. A partir de ahora te enteraras. Un abrazo.
Mil gracias Julia… Sí muchas veces la blogósfera es inabarcable…
El hecho de que el blog te guste es el mejor cumplido.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 😀
I love your blog! compliments for your awards! greetings from Italy!
Simi
Grazie mille, Simi. È un onore.
Saluti e arrivederci,
Aquileana 😉
One hears of dysfunctional families but the Nyx progeny are the absolute benchmark of this cohort. But was Charon a daemon or an official from some Mythological Sanitary Dept. bringing order to the necessary disposal of human remains? (and even throwing in some thoughtful and novel ritual). Yet another interpretation is given by the Argentinian/Irishman Chris de Burgh in his song ‘Don’t pay the Ferryman’ – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kNwvIEQsg0
I commend you on yet another earnest and contemplative analysis. Thank you Aquileana.
Hello Mike …
I am honored to read your witty words, once again…
Thanks for dropping by to read and comment. I really appreciate it…
As to Charon´s genealogy, well I give you that: Nyx & Erebus children are not the best examples of behaviour, arent´they?…
But neither were their parents I guess.
As you have well said, they were a very dysfunctional family which would beat all the other possible contestants.
((Note that there are also some shiny sons in the family that don´t seem to fit well with the Dark roots of the progeny. I am making reference to: Epiphron, Aether and Hemera> See their description above on the post for further details))
As to the song by Chris de Burgh it is absolutely great … I learnt its moral: Don´t ever pay (Charon) the ferryman in advance”.
“Whatever you do /Don’t pay the ferryman
Don’t even fix a price/Don’t pay the ferryman
Until he gets you to the other side”
Best wishes; Mike.
I hope you have a nice week ahead,
Aquileana 😀
Thanks @MikeMcGuire_ for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 😀
Thanks @linneatanner for sharing this post at Twitter (twice),
Aquileana 😛
I find I’m learning quite a lot from you posts. I immediately recognized the name Charon since I knew that was the name given to Pluto’s moon. I just never bothered to think what that was a fitting name.
As a matter of fact when you search charon in the web most of the results are related to Pluto’s moon.
Jeri I am the one who learns a lot from your posts. By the way I loved your comment back to me in the pantoum “Grandpa Red”. Thank you.
Best wishes, Aquileana 🙂
Thanks @JeriWB for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 😀
http://tigranelgrande333.wordpress.com/2014/04/28/mi-gratitud-por-la-magia-de-la-audacia-de-aquiles/
Gracias por la referencia Rubén. Un abrazo,
Aquileana 🙂
Gracias a ti Aquileana
A Styx river is not far from here, as is an almost ghost town close by to it.
Unbelievable Sean… Those mythological references do stay alive then.
Best wishes, xo, Aquileana 🙂
Yes, references of old do get around 🙂
Indeed, they do, Sean.
Best wishes to you, Aquileana 😀
[…] Aquileana, responsable de La Audacia de Aquiles, demuele a golpe de mitos, enseñanzas filosóficas y referencias literarias mi mundo visible y deja lugar a otros mundos… No encuentro palabras para expresar mi gratitud (por mucho más que tu nominación). Aquí dejo el post que recomiendo leer hasta el final: Mythology: “Charon, Ancient Greek God of The Underworld. […]
Muchas gracias por la especial mención.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 😀
Mythological stories are the best ! Thanks a lot for sharing those beautiful myths
Thanks for stopping by to read and comment …
I am glad that you enjoyed the post Gaia,
Best wishes, Aquileana 🙂
It’s always a pleasure for me.
Congrats on the award! I love Greek myth. I was always fascinated with their concept of the afterlife. Great summary of it.
Thank you Kourtney. I am glad that you also enjoy greek myths. Nice to share them with you.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😛
Aquí mi nominación: http://salvela.wordpress.com/2014/04/29/nominacion-a-sisterhood-wordpress-blogs-y-word-press-family-2014/
Josep,
Mil gracias por la especial nominación. Honrada de que me la hayas concedido.
La incluyo seguramente en el próximo post.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 🙂
Inmensa entrada, inmensa de documentada y atendida en todo.
Claro, el mito y su asunto, con su envolvimiento genial, tiene su miga, magia: ampara ese mantener que la historia y las religiones le han potenciado; si encima le añades esa suerte de saga familiar, queda todo muy armado. Este tema de Caronte y su can Cerbero, me gusta, es muy imaginativo.
Feliz trabajo veo Aquileana. Y, como nadie nos ve, un comentario con algo de humor: has dejado una familia admirable: “aquella de la cual, Dios te libre”.
Todo un buen saludo y abrazo.
Querido Al,
Me parece genial la frase que citabas…
Una buena familia es “aquella de la cual, de Dios te libre”. En el caso de los hijos de Nyx y Erebo es totalmente aplicable, creo…
Me alegro mucho de que te haya gustado el post.
Gracias por el comentario y la atenta lectura.
Abrazos y los mejores deseos para vos,
Aquileana 😀
Excelente, siempre me gustan tus intervenciones por tus maneras personales; pero, además, me refrescan y aportan notas que se me apagan con los años, aunque, me parece, que lo que entra mansamente en las lecturas es cuanto de veras alimenta impalpablemente pero con fuertes sedimentos.
Aquileana, mi atención, respeto y afecto. Animo y suerte. Un buen abrazo. Al.
Al:
Tus comentarios son un aliento. Agradezco todas y cada una de tus palabras e intervenciones.
Mi alto respeto y afecto para vos.
Abrazos grandes, Aquileana 🙂
Thanks @Maxima003 for sharing this post at twitter,
Aquileana 😀
https://twitter.com/Maxima003/status/461627595977539584
🙂 🙂 Buen día para vos.
[…] to Aquileana for Four Awards, the Inner Peace Award, the Sunshine Award, the Most Influential Blogger and the […]
Thanks for the mention dear Brenda. I hope you have a marvellous birthday.
Hugs , Aquileana 😛
Interesante lo de la genealogía y su parentesco. En cuanto a Caronte, no hace mucho leí por algún lado que según la mitología la barca sólo podía transportar a gente muerta, por lo que ha de ser cierto. Dejaría preguntas sobre los grandes clásicos que todos hemos leído.
Muchas gracias por el comentario y tus disidencias respecto a los “pasajeros”de la barca de Caronte. Se me ocurre que las diferencias deben estar vinculadas con distintas perspectivas ofrecidas por diversos textos antiguos.
Un abrazo, Aquileana 😛
Querida Amalia, no tengo palabras para expresar mi agradecimiento por la mención de mi espacio.
Un gran detalle de tu parte. MIL GRACIAS.
Y felicidades por tu merecido premio.
Besotes y fuerte abrazo.
Pd. Disculpa por la tardanza de mis respuestas, en una semana estaré de vuelta.
Absolutamente merecido.
A una escritora y amiga con todo mi afecto,
Abrazos y te leo cuando vuelvas a tu blog,
Aquileana 😀
Thanks @rotzemardini for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
Thanks @AGlimpsofHeaven for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
Hola guapa Aqui! bravo et félicitations! 🙂 ya sabes que tu blog es muy interesante y muy intelectual, por una élite dirigida que tiene algunos conocimientos generales… 🙂 gracias por tu presencia à mis “encrucijada” y una pregunta, por favor: alguna vez has estado interesada en la mitología egipcia, también, como yo?… 🙂 mis mejores deseos, un montón de inspiración y buena suerte en todas sus actividades… con amistad y hasta proxima! abrazitos tolosanos, Mélanie
* * *
buenas noches y un bonus: 🙂
http://myvirtualplayground.wordpress.com/2013/10/11/missing-egypt-nefertiti-she-seems-to-have-an-invisible-touch/
Hola Mélanie,
Muchas gracias por tus palabras, me siento honrada de leerlas…
As to egyptian mythology, I love it too but I don't have as much knowledge in comparison with Greek myths.
Your blog is remarkable and J'aime bien de connaître la France et ces paysages. Ainsi que lire tes histoires.
Je te visiterai prochainement.
Merci beaucoup,
Aquileana 😛
Ciao Aquileana,
I love to read about the darker and edgier stories of mythology. Charon, the reaper of the dead. A great article!
cheers
Luciana 😀 x
Ciao Luciana,
Come stai?… Yes, I agree with you: the underworld greek imagery is certainly rich and prolific.
Thanks for dropping by. Really glad to know that you liked the post!…
Saluti, Aquileana 😀
Thanks @ClucianaLuciana for sharing this post at twitter,
Aquileana 😛
A veritable mythological treat!
What is it about these tales residing in the age old mists of mythology that continue to charm? Tales which would have passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth, ballads and verses. Could it be that in each of these tales, a learning exists, a learning that remains relevant even today?
Shakti
Hi there Shakti…
Thanks for dropping by to read and comment.
Yes, I believe that there is an undeniable message which lays underneath those myths and legends.
They usually tend to explain us human behaviours and to give us a directive or moral.
I believe that these are two of the reasons that might explain why they remain alive still nowadays.
Best wishes, Aquileana 🙂
Gracias El cuento inacabado ~ Blog de madamebovary y sofía ~por la mención, Aquileana 😀
Thanks @LadyElenaUK for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
Lovely post Aq! It took me back to my school days and Humanities classes in Greek mythology which I always found fascinating, especially the ominous Hades. 🙂 Happy to share your brilliance! xo
Hello DG…
Great to read your comment here. Thanks for your words, they do mean a lot to me. I much appreciate them!,
Best wishes, xo, Aquileana 😀
🙂
Thanks @pokercubster for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 🙂
This is really interesting. I had forgotten about the coins and don’t remember hearing about the river of pain. Mythology is such a great source of imagination and inspiration.
Hi Sheila,
Thank you for your words. I much appreciated them..
I am glad that you enjoyed the post and that you remembered Charon’s myth through it.
Best regards, Aquileana 😛
[…] Por concederme el premio: Premio Versatile Blogger Award (Trophee version) […]
I was fascinated in reading this post… And loved the Map of the underworld journey.. I can see how many traditions stem from these ancient teachings.. like putting pennies on the eyes of the dead… Although to be honest burying them with coins I had not heard of… yet its always thought good luck to give a newborn a silver coin…
Its the art work that always holds me in its spell….
Many congratulations in your awards again dear Aquileana… I hope the month of May is full of delightful joys your way..
Blessings Sue xox
Hello Sue, my dear blogger friend.
I am really happy to read your comments. How nice that you took time to stop by here to read and drop some lines…
Your insights are rich as alñways… You always bring me new details or things. As such for instance I didn’t know that giving a newborn a silver coin gives him or her good luck…
As to the Map of the underworld it was the big hit over there, as most readers knew Charon´s myth but not further maps on the geography of Hades
Much obliged to you, Sue. Best wishes,
Aquileana 🙂
The ‘burying with coins on their eyes’ must be the ‘charm’ of the myth and therefore what nurtures traditions and folklore in so many countries. Just recently I posted about the ‘myth of orchis’, but it’s really just a myth with a lot of charm, which is only ‘speculated’ to have existed because of the ‘dismemberments’ the Maenads were known for. Aquieleana, and please correct me, the ‘myth of orchis’ is just mere speculation as to why orchis was believed to the youngest satyr as depicted in the Greek painting. In what piece of literature is Orchis really mentioned as such? It’s just a myth derived from many studies and speculations from observing these Greek paintings. And thanks to Aquielana, I’ve been able to learn all this.
Hi Maria…
I have done a little research on Orchid´s myth as I didn´t know too much until I read your post the other day.
The only specific source I have found as to Literature is Petronius´s “Satyricon”. (At http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyrion )
I have found the following information (At: http://www.science20.com/fossil_huntress/blog/nymphs_and_satrys_orchids-85911 )
Orchidaceae get their name from the Greek ὄρχις (órkhis), which literally means “testicle”, a nod to the naughty nub shape of their roots.
In Greek mythology, Orchis was the son of an ugly nymph and a satyr who came upon a festival for Dionysios deep in the woods.
Liking his fermented grapes a wee bit too much, he overindulged on wine then tried to have his way with a priestess of Dionysios. As a result the Bacchanalians tore him limb from limb. His grieving father prayed to the Gods for him to be restored.
Not that keen on men who assert themselves on unwilling young women, they turned him into a flower instead.
What called my attention is that orcheids seem to be related with female genitals instead… (“Orchid comes from the Greek word orchis which means testicle due the shape of the orchid root.” AT http://hametownshoppesgardener.blogspot.com.ar/2011/12/orchids-are-named-after-greek-god-and.html)… I think that this is pretty odd!.
Anyway I always enjoy answering to your comments as I learn a lot from your witty questions…
Best wishes, dear Maria,
Aquileana 😛
Orchids came from the word “Satyrions”, from their connection to satyrs. It was believed that orchids were the food of the satyrs, and incited them to excesses. Satyrion is also an a name for ragwort and ancient aphrodisiac made from it. Though it may have been named after the nymph, it more likely derives from the mythical and lustful satyrs. This aphrodisiac is mentioned twice in the Satyricon of Petronius.
That is also the only literary reference I have found…. I must check out if it also appears in Apuleius´ “Metamorphoses”… (As suggested at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyricon )
Hugs to you, Aquileana 😛
___________
Update: Theophrastus in his book “De historia plantarum” mentioned orchids and also did Dioscorides
The word orchis, from which the whole family received its name, was first used for this purpose by the Greek philospher Theophrastus (c. 372-c. 287 B.C.), a pupil of Aristotle. Theophrastus is sometimes referred to as the father of botany. It wasn’t until 300 years later in the first century A.D. that orchids are mentioned again, this time by Dioscorides, a Greek physician in the Asia Minor, who collected information on medicinal plants while serving as surgeon in Nero’s Roman army.
Both Theophrastus and Dioscorides described the tubers of the Mediterranean orchis to resemble testicles, and therefore the hypothesis was formed that the plants influenced sexuality
Check out this link for further information: http://www.orchidsystems.com/orchidlk/history.html
Up´soon Aquileana 🙂
____________
You pinned it! I bookmarked that page. Thanks! Also, apparently the word ‘satyrion’ was also used to denote orchids, see here:
http://bit.ly/SFB8i0
Why the botanist coined the word ‘orchis’ and but then ‘satyrion’ appears afterwards could perhaps be what is called an ambiguation, which in botany there are several. ‘Satyrion’ is an old form, and is no longer used.
You are right, orchid blooms are associated with female organs as are most flowers in general.
Maria,
All is clear as regard to Satyrion’ (as you said an old form, no longer used).
As to the fact that orchid blooms are associated with female organs as are most flowers in general…
It seems quite paradoxical then that Orchid’s myth is liken to male sexual organs…
Orchids, like most flowers and according to the attached image may be hermaphrodite…
Thanks for the botany’s updates. Hugs, Aquileana 😀
Trying to link all of this to the myth of Charon, I see the immortals were spared from death altogether. Apparently a ‘metamorphosis’ in Greek mythology could mean some sort of punishment in the sense that when they did something wrong, they would lose their human form but still remain alive.
Hi María.
I agree with your thoughts as regard to metamorphosis’ s meaning… As a matter of fact, punishment is involved in It and that’s also Ovid’ s interpretation … By the way there are many metamorphosis in which a god or goddess become a tree or a flower… I’ ll give It a peak and will let you know later today. Enjoy your saturday, my friend, Aquileana 🙂
I have to read more of your blog. I think you did touch on this subject as how this was a form of reincarnation. Yet the way I learned it and perhaps the ‘western’ way (without punishment) was that a ‘metamorphosis’ was actually like some form of ‘rebirth’, probably alluding to the mature stage of an individual, something actually positive and rewarding. Perhaps the connotation of the word changed over time.
Maria ♥ ,
Yes, it is certainly a good way to interpret it… There are so many layers to reveal…
As far as I know you know quite a bit of Eastern Philosophies… so we can exchange knowledges
I really enjoyed your post on Water Lilies and Lotusses.
That was a remarkable one, my friend.
Sending you hugs, Aquileana 😀
What does exist is the genus ‘Satyrium’, a true orchid genus. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyrium_(orchid)
But this is a ‘genus’ in botany, as opposed to the generic term ‘Satyrion’, which is no longer used.
Hi Maria…
Yes, as far as I read the orchid genus is related to the genus ‘Satyrium…
But as the site says> “Other species with helmet-shaped flowers e.g. Aceras, Chamorchis and Platanthera, often were included in the genus Satyrium, but far from belonging in the same genus, they no longer are included even within the Satyriinae, but within the tribe Orchideae”.
Truly interesting research, dear blogger friend.
Best wishes and hugs to you,
Aquileana 🙂
Thank you for stopping by at my blog so that I could find yours! I have to learn more about Nyx, I thought I had my Greek mythology down pretty well, but… Alas, I find myself running into names that I can’t remember! Hope you’re having a great week 🙂
Hello Laura,
Thank you for dropping by to read and comment.
I think that we tend to forget the plots of the books or movies. The same thing happens with myths.
But, once we have re-read their very beginning , we remember the whole story!…(It is what it is, my dear.)
Best wishes to you!!!.
Aquileana 😀
Reblogged this on That Dark Alley.
Thanks for reblogging this post, Faisal
Best wishes, Aquileana 🙂
Aquileana,Dear ! It seems I visit your posts to study them,not simply to read them !!! Superb work,well-organised and presented with incredible details !
You have successfully unlocked recent memories from one of my trips to the place,not the Lower World … , to the place where the river Acherondas (Acheron ) and Hades … and Tartarus silently flow carrying in their crystal clear waters myths,facts and phantasy … Of course,I didn’t meet Cerberus,the 3-headed hound,I didn’t meet the son of Helios,Acheron,but I was intensely contemplating on Homer’s poems where the river Hades is described,and on Plato’s Phaedo where Socrates looks into the soul after death …
Loved the Geneology board you displayed,where most of the names/words are used in the everyday Greek language.,nowadays.
NYX = nycta= night … , Hemera=hmera=day ,Oneiro=dream ,Geras,Thanatos, Eris ….. lovely words with most extended meanings …
BTW, Kudos !!! Myriads of Kudos for your well-deserved brilliant Awards !!!
Keep shining my dear friend,
Love and kind thoughts to you ,Doda 🙂
Hello dear Doda…
Thanks a lot for sharing your insights here…
How wonderful that you have visited the place were the river Acheronds was supposed to be…
It should have been a great shivering experience, right?
I am grateful that you have told me more about the Greek language as regard to the Genealogy Tree…
It is always a pleasure to read your comments, my blogger friend.
I wish you a brilliant sunday over there, in the beautiful and everlasting wise Greece.
Hugs & παζ υ γκλορια (peace and then glory)
Aquileana 😀
Thanks @DGMARYOGA sharing this post at Twitter , Aquileana 😛
A very good post, well documented. Beautiful paintings. Congratulations!
I lectured with much joy and thank you so much for sharing with us.
Warm wishes. With friendship Stefania. 🙂
Thanks Ştefania…
I really appreciate your words and I am glad that you enjoyed the post.
Great to read your comment over here.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😀
There is soooo much info in this post, I’m going to have to come back to it. Love this stuff! 🙂
Thank you Very much.. Whenever you want, Kev, Happy saturday to you, Hugs, Aquileana 🙂
Likewise. 🙂
Aquileana, your site is a delight to visit. The texts are learned, erudite and entertaining and the accompanying visuals not only appropriate but hugely stimulating. I’ve spent the past while here lost in a fabulous world. Thank you for all of this.
My best to you
john
Thank you very much for this thoughtful comment … Your words mean a lot to me an I am really glad to know that you like the posts here…
Keep it up with your great poetry…
Best wishes, Aquileana 😀
[…] was not only Demeter’s father but also Demeter, Poseidon and Hades‘ […]
Another wonderful post. Aquileana! I knew little about Charon, only that he was employed by Haides, and his work description:) but knew nothing about his genealogy. Thank you for this knowledge! Hope you have a pleasant week! Hugs!
Thanks a bunch for dropping by to read this post, Inese. I am glad that you found new information here as regard to Charon’s genealogy.
Best wishes and happy day to you, Aquileana 😀
I’m catching up before reading your latest posts so I can understand them better. There’s always such a wealth of knowledge in your posts. Charon’s family tree is most interesting. When now I use the word hypnosis or morphine, I’ll think of those Greek gods.
Thanks Aquileana 🙂
Very clever insights dear Irina…
That family tree on Charon’s family helped me understand many other posts and relationships between Gods and Goddesses as well
Best wishes and thanks for dropping by,
Aquileana 😛
Thanks @kookadim for sharing this post at Twitter,
Aquileana 😀
►Los Nueve Círculos del Infierno de Dante.
Muy buen post, Aquileana 😛
http://laexuberanciadehades.wordpress.com/2014/09/17/los-nueve-circulos-del-infierno-de-dante/
Amazing post Aquileana!
I didn’t actually know until I saw the map, that the Elysium Fields of the underworld of Hades were located near the river Lethe, when in “The Seasoning of Willow Elysia”, I wrote the line “Elysium’s Dream-Seasoned Ambrosia Amnesiacs, love-drunk on Hades’ hazy-laced Lethean-rivelet”.
And I love the word Obolos, Charon’s price to cross the river. I may use it again soon, I have before, in my cryptic poem “A Pirate’s Prayer”. It’s similar sounding to the Lobolo, known as the bride price in some cultures, which is known as a dowry in others.
I knew you would like this one because of the map and the Family Tree.
I totally agree with you regarding the word obolos and its meaning related to the “price we have to pay to tarvel to the Underworld domains”…
You’ll see that on further greeks myths like Persephone’s and Adonis’ the Greek Gods travel to Hades. Persephone’s case is interesting as she is abducted by Hades!
Also the same happens with Psyche and Euridice… They travel to the Underworld. Psyche to accomplish some tasks ordered by Aphrodite and Euridice being rescued by his lover Orpheus. Which link should I add… Okay I’ll choose this one: https://aquileana.wordpress.com/2014/06/05/greek-mythology-orpheus-and-eurydice/ You take a peek whenever you want… I am now going to read your poem!.
Best wishes my friend !, Aquileana 😛
Yes, you were right! I don’t know why but I am fascinated with they mythical underworld, I’m so glad you have written and shared so much on it, I am like a student and you are the professor 🙂
I have been reading some of Rainer Maria Rilke’s “Sonnets to Orpheus” (He has over 50 of them) this year, and it will be interesting to find out more in depth background on Orpheus! I will read the post oh him and Eurydice after I respond to your other comments! I’
Hi Ryan1… And did you enjoyed Rilke’s poems? … I guess the problem with the german poetry is that we lose a lot of the senses when it is translated …
German goes better with translations on Philosophy I would dare to say.
Have you read Holderlin?… I will have to suggest you a post over here on a book by Heidegger regarding Poetry. Will do that in the next future!.
Best wishes and thanks a lot for dropping by, Aquileana 😀
You are right, a lot is lost in translation! That’s why when I read the Sonnets to Orpheus, I read two different translations of them at the same time! They are so good, and so different from my sonnets. I tend to make the lines very long in my sonnets, where as Rilke’s are quite short. It’s just the style I decided to make mine in sonnets, part of a change of style as I’ve written a lot of haiku and tanka poems that have short lines.
I have only written a handful of sonnets, but here’s the first one I ever wrote! http://21shadesofblue.com/2014/05/11/wildflower-love-occitan-sonnet/
As you are smart and seem to know at least a little about paintings and flowers, you may pick up on the reference to the effects of foxglove, which Vincent van Gogh used medicinally, which influenced his paintings!
Gracias por la riqueza de tus posts, a mí que me interesan los ritos funerarios y los mitos sobre la muerte y el más allá (intervidas), este mito que publicaste me cae de perlas.
De nuevo felicidades por esa cantidad de merecidos premios 🙂
Abrazo desde México
Muchas gracias querida Silvia.
Me alegro de que te haya resultado interesante este post y de que el tema esté entre tus escogidos.
Llama la atención ver cómo en las diferentes culturas y a lo largo de los distintos milenios, el tema funerario y del Inframundo ha cumplido siempre un papel fundamental en todas las culturas, a pesar de sus diferencias.
Abrazo para vos desde Argentina, Aquileana 😛
El tema de la muerte, a la vez que nos atemoriza a todos, también nos atrae, queremos saber a dónde vamos a ir al morir; un tema al que le he dedicado mucho tiempo de investigación (como antropóloga primero y como alguien que “se ha asomado” tras la cortina, después).
Nuevamente mi agradecimiento por tus enjundiosos artículos.
Un abrazo 🙂 🙂
Gracias a vos, querida Silvia por compartir tus saberes… Tu blog es una reliquia ❤ Te mando un abrazo y te agradezco, nuevamente, Aquileana 😀
¿Y qué me dices de lo que tú compartes? aprender de mitología en tu blog es una delicia (los otros temas como el derecho, no los manejo, por eso no opino jajaja 🙂 ) pero la mitología, que siempre me ha gustado, aquí la disfruto a placer ❤
Abrazote desde México
Otro abrazo grande para vos. Espero ver el eclipse 😛
Aquileana 😀
Creo que sólo se verá en Norteamérica, incluido México, intenté enviarte una imagen, pero no fue posible, lo siento.
Un beso 🙂
[…] was as as God of Crossroads, leader of souls to the river Styx in the underworld, where the boatman Charon would take them to […]
I’ve always found the different versions of the afterlife in different cultures fascinating. A very interesting read. 🙂
Thank you very much for dropping by!. I am really pleased to know that you liked the post and that you enjoyed reading about the different cultural versions concerning afterlife…
Sending you all my best wishes!. Aquileana 😀
[…] the words Lethe or Elysium are often used as metaphors for the underworld or Hades in general. Charon was the ferryman of the dead, in the service of the underworld domains of Hades. He received the […]
[…] The combination of Beauty and Death, entailed by Love, finds its ultimate expression in the last image of Narcissus, who still faces each other, as in the mirror of Persephone, in the water of the Styx. […]
[…] role as ferryman is echoed by Charon, who also is figured as a white-haired man. (Oðin’s role is also taken by the giant Hyrmir, […]
[…] One of the centers of the cult of Anubis was Cynopolis, or the city of dogs. The Greeks and Romans associated Anubis with Sirius in the sky and with Cerberus in Hades. […]
[…] This would lead the Olympians in a ten-year war against the Titans, before driving them defeated into the pit of Tartaros. Many years later, Zeus released Kronos and his brothers from this prison, and made the old Titan king of the Elysian Islands, in the Underworld. […]
[…] examples of a Psychopomp are the ancient Egyptian god Anubis, the Greek ferryman Charon, Hermes and Hecate, the Roman god Mercury (equivalent: Hermes in Greek Mythology) and Archangel […]
[…] https://aquileana.wordpress.com/2014/04/26/mythology-charon-ancient-greek-god-of-the-underworld/ […]
Thanks for linking bacck to this post! … All the best to you 😀
[…] were also they were agents of punishment who abducted people and tortured them on their way to Hades’ domains. Like the Erinyes, the harpies were employed by the gods as instruments for the punishment of the […]