The Mythical Story of Selene, the Moon Goddess

The ancient Greeks were known for their rich mythology, filled with gods and goddesses who ruled over various aspects of the world. One such deity was Selene, the goddess of the moon. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating story of Selene and her significance in Greek mythology.

The Birth of Selene

According to the ancient Greek myths, Selene was born to the titan Hyperion and the titaness Theia. Hyperion was associated with the sun, while Theia represented the shining light of the goddess of sight. Being the offspring of such majestic figures, Selene inherited their beauty and radiance.

Often portrayed as a celestial being with a radiant crown of moonbeams, Selene commanded the night sky, bringing light and comfort to the world during the darkness of night. Her appearance was described as ethereal, with pale skin and long silver-blue hair that flowed down to her feet.

Assigning Selene’s Duties

Selene was bestowed with the important responsibility of driving her moon chariot across the night sky, pulling the moon along with her. In some versions of the myth, she was believed to possess multiple chariots to accommodate the varying phases of the moon. During the waxing phase, her chariot would shine brightly, illuminating the world below.

It is said that Selene would descend to Earth during the full moon, particularly to aid women in labor, helping them deliver their babies safely. She was also associated with fertility and was often called upon by women seeking to bear children.

Interestingly, Selene had a love affair with the handsome shepherd Endymion. According to the myth, Endymion was given eternal youth and sleep by Zeus himself. Every night, Selene would visit Endymion while he slept, captivated by his beauty.

Selene and the Mortals

While Selene mostly kept to herself and her celestial duties, she occasionally interacted with mortals in Greek mythology. One such instance was her involvement in the story of the famous hunter, Orion.

Orion was a hunter of great skill, known for his giant stature and impressive strength. He caught the attention of Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, who became infatuated with him. Selene, having noticed Artemis’s affection for Orion, conspired to bring them together.

During one of Selene’s nightly journeys across the sky, when the moon was full and bright, she intentionally delayed her descent. This extended night allowed Artemis and Orion to spend more time together, deepening their connection. However, the union was short-lived, as Apollo, Artemis’s brother, disapproved of their relationship and tricked Artemis into shooting Orion.

Selene in Art and Culture

The mythical figure of Selene has been a source of inspiration for countless artists, poets, and writers throughout history. Her captivating beauty and association with the moon have made her a popular subject in ancient and modern art.

In ancient Greece, artists often depicted Selene riding her moon chariot across the night sky, surrounded by stars. Her image adorned many vases, sculptures, and murals, reflecting her importance in ancient Greek culture.

Selene’s influence extended beyond Greece and into Roman mythology, where she was identified as Luna, the Roman goddess of the moon. The Romans also associated her with the goddess of the hunt, Diana.

The Legacy of Selene

Although the belief in Greek gods and goddesses has faded over time, Selene’s legacy lives on through various aspects of modern culture. Her name has been immortalized in scientific terminology as “Selene,” referring to the satellite of Earth known as the moon.

In addition, the moon itself carries the essence of Selene, as her light continues to brighten our nights and spark our imagination. From ancient myths to moonlit tales, Selene remains a fascinating figure, reminding us of the profound impact of celestial bodies on human culture.

Conclusion

The story of Selene, the moon goddess, is one of beauty, power, and everlasting allure. With her luminous presence in the night sky, Selene mesmerized ancient Greeks and became an integral part of their mythology. Today, her name lives on as a symbol of the enchanting moonlight that captivates us and connects us to the mysteries of the universe.