Muse Melete
Muses 2
Major Figures in Greek Mythology
Muses
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Melpomene ~ Tragedy
Meaning of name: "Choir"
The Muse of tragedy. She is usually represented with a tragic mask and wearing
the cothurnus (the boots traditionally worn by tragic actors). Sometimes
she holds a knife of club in one hand, and the mask in the other. |
Polyhymnia ~ Songs to the gods
Other names: Polymnia
Meaning of name: "Many songs"
Polyhymnia is the Greek Muse of the sacred hymn, eloquence and dance. She
is usually represented in a pensive or meditating position. She is a serious
looking woman, dressed in a long cloak and resting with an elbow on a pillar.
Sometimes she holds a finger to her mouth. |
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Terpsichore ~ Dance
Meaning of name: "Delight of dancing"
A Muse, Terpsichore is the daughter of Zeus and Mnemosyne. Terpsichore was
the Muse of Dance, hence the English word terpsichorean or dancer. Her attribute
is the lyre. According to some traditions, she is the mother of the Sirens
with the river-god Achelous. |
Thalia ~ Comedy
Meaning of name: "Festivi"
Thalia is one of the Greek Muses, and she resides over comedy and light poetry.
Her attributes are the comic mask and a shepherd's staff. Thalia is also
the name of one of the Graces (Charites). |
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Urania ~ Astronomy
Meaning of name: "Queen of the mountains"
The Greek Muse of astronomy and astrology. She is represented with a globe
in her left hand and a peg in her right hand. Urania is dressed in a cloak
embroidered with stars and she keeps her eyes towards the sky. |
Compton's
Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia Mythica
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