The Roman state began as a semi-mythical and small-scale monarchy in the 10th century BC. It later prospered as an expansionist republic from 509 BC onwards. Then, in 27 BC, it became an empire. Its leaders, the emperors of Rome, went on to become some of the most powerful heads of state in history. Here …
Out of the long catalog of Emperors from ancient Rome, there are those who, for one reason or another, stand out amongst their predecessors and successors. Whilst some, such as Trajan or Marcus Aurelius, have become famous for their astute ability to rule their vast domains, there are others, such as Caligula and Nero, whose …
When we look back on those figures in ancient mythology most associated with death, few stand out more than Charon across time and place. Unlike Pluto, or Hades, he is not the god of death and the underworld, but is instead a servant of these gods, as he ferries the souls of the dead across …
Like many Roman gods and goddesses, Neptune shares many visual, religious, and symbolic associations with his Greek counterpart, Poseidon, who tends to hold a more pre-eminent position in the modern imagination. This is partly due to the fact that Neptune does not feature in much Roman literature, except in his notable role in the Virgilian …
In some ways like the Kami of Japanese Mythology, the Nymphs of Ancient Greek and Roman folklore permeated almost everything, particularly in the topographical and natural features of the inhabitable world. Furthermore, in Ancient Greek myth and Classical Epic, they are ever-present, seducing young men or accompanying gods and goddesses on their divine duties. Whilst …
Japanese Mythology, in its broadest sense, is a pastiche of different traditions and myths, derived mainly from Shintoism and Japanese Buddhism. Both provide Japanese Mythology with a pantheon of elaborate and varied deities, guardians, and “kami” – holy spirits and forces associated with the natural world and its features. Additionally, more localized Japanese folklore constitutes …