as preferred to any of the ordinary text-books on the subject. Copies were sought for the use of other institutions, and the

e subject matter was carefully classified, and such additions made as were deemed necessary for completeness. As a farther p

torical myths, or the narratives of gods, demigods, and heroes, which were current among the heathen in ancient times. Ques

libations of milk, honey, and wine; also sacrifices of animals, which were either partaken of by the votaries or consumed as

the mountain top, the wrath of Pluto must be appeased, and sacrifices were offered to the infernal powers. The strife and tu

e offered to the infernal powers. The strife and turbulence of nature were attributed to the gods, who became in some manner

the gods, who became in some manner identified with the elements they were supposed to govern. The honors paid to the memory

cal. Ques. Were the Greek and Roman mythologies the same? Ans. They were , to a great extent. The ancient Latins had, undou

ke of sorrow and of sin. This was the Golden Age. Avarice and discord were unknown; men had not learned to slay animals for

nt did good pursue. Unforced by punishment, unawed by fear, His words were simple, and his soul sincere; Needless was writte

safe; for conscience was their guard. ……………………………………………………… No walls were yet, nor fence, nor moat, nor mound, Nor drum was

nor mound, Nor drum was heard, nor trumpet’s angry sound, Nor swords were forged; but, void of care and crime, The soft cre

tened the winter days, and let loose the northern blasts, so that men were obliged to build dwellings, and cultivate the ung

dwellings, and cultivate the ungrateful soil. Their first habitations were caves and grottoes, leafy coverts of the forest,

en boughs. The Brazen Age came next; men grew fierce and warlike, but were not as yet altogether impious. The Iron Age gave

ities that afflict mankind. Avarice and violence reigned supreme; men were not satisfied to till the earth, but dug into its

by gold betrayed.” Dryden’s Ovid. Mount Olympus. Ques. Where were the gods supposed to dwell? Ans. On the summit o

when they descended to earth. Each god had his own dwelling, but all were obliged to repair, when summoned, to the palace o

usual abode was on the earth, in the waters, or in the lower shades, were compelled to assemble in Olympus at his command.

osia and nectar, discoursed upon the affairs of heaven and earth, and were delighted at intervals by the music of Apollo’s l

d the furniture in so wonderful a manner, that the tripods and tables were endowed with motion, and ranged themselves in ord

order without the aid of hands. The robes of the different divinities were wrought by Minerva and the Graces. Everything of

hey supposed them to have the same passions, both good and evil. They were immortal, yet could suffer pain and receive wound

filled their veins. The deities resembled men also in form, but they were , with some exceptions, of majestic stature and sh

celestial beauty. They could render themselves invisible at will, and were otherwise endowed with supernatural powers. There

even Jupiter himself, could undo the spell. Ques. Into what classes were the gods divided? Ans. Ancient writers differ in

. According to one division, which we will follow, the Celestial gods were : Jupiter, Apollo, Mars, Mercury and Bacchus. The

gods were: Jupiter, Apollo, Mars, Mercury and Bacchus. The goddesses were : Juno, Minerva or Pallas, Venus, Aurora and Laton

d Latona. To these higher divinities, Saturn, Janus, Vesta and others were sometimes added. There were also Terrestrial divi

vinities, Saturn, Janus, Vesta and others were sometimes added. There were also Terrestrial divinities, Gods of the Sea, Inf

ysius [Diony′sius] and Jupiter’s cloak. Ans. The statues of this god were sometimes decorated with much magnificence. It is

fulfillment of this engagement, Saturn devoured them as soon as they were born. Ops, or Rhea, his wife, succeeded in concea

llations. Ops saved Neptune and Pluto in the same manner. Ques. What were Jupiter’s first exploits? Ans. Titan was so much

ubterranean world, or infernal regions. Ques. What natural phenomena were attributed to Jupiter? Ans. Thunder, lightning,

er? Ans. Thunder, lightning, rain, clouds, snow, and rainbows. These were sent by Jupiter either as signs or warnings, or e

d you explain this seeming contradiction? Ans. Many of these stories were simply allegories, illustrating the dominion of J

, illustrating the dominion of Jupiter over the natural world. Others were invented at later times; and all were embellished

over the natural world. Others were invented at later times; and all were embellished by the poets with but little regard f

uarded by a mighty dragon. On perceiving him, they turned to fly, but were either crushed in the serpent’s folds, or suffoca

e dragon’s teeth in the ground, and await the result. Where the teeth were planted, armed men immediately sprung up. Cadmus

d their weapons against one another, and continued to fight until all were killed except five. These assisted the hero in bu

their own persons, or in those of their children. Cadmus and Hermione were so much afflicted by the misfortunes of their des

cendants, that they petitioned the gods to deprive them of life. They were soon after changed into serpents. Ques. Relate t

d his prayer and changed him to a cypress, the branches of which tree were always used at funerals. After many adventures an

presided over physic, music, poetry, and rhetoric; and the nine Muses were subject to him. He regulated the day by guiding t

f the Sun; they departed from their usual track, and heaven and earth were threatened with one universal conflagration. Jupi

re it was found and buried by the nymphs of the place. As his sisters were weeping around his tomb, they were changed by Jup

ymphs of the place. As his sisters were weeping around his tomb, they were changed by Jupiter into poplars. Ques. Who was D

while she was flying from the pursuit of the god. Ques. What things were especially sacred to Apollo? Ans. Among plants,

animals, the wolf; and among birds, the hawk, the crow, and the swan were sacred to this god. Chapter IV. Mars — Ares.

and Terror are the horses which draw the chariot. Ques. What animals were sacred to Mars? Ans. The dog, on account of its

ental gate. Here the Senate gave audience to such ambassadors as they were not willing to admit within the walls. A pillar s

a [Ma′ia], the daughter of Atlas. On his mother’s account, sacrifices were generally offered to him during the month of May.

alled Petasus [Pet′asus], and his winged sandals Talaria. Ques. What were the offices of Mercury? Ans. They were various;

sandals Talaria. Ques. What were the offices of Mercury? Ans. They were various; his most important function was to carry

d so sweetly on his pipe, that, one by one, the keeper’s hundred eyes were closed. The god then drew his falchion, and cut o

hipped in that country under the name of Isis. The statues of Mercury were simply wooden posts, surmounted by a rude head wi

ly wooden posts, surmounted by a rude head with a pointed beard. They were set up in the fields, and at all cross roads. The

d which surmounted them was not always that of Mercury. These pillars were sometimes placed, by the Athenians, at the entran

protection against thieves. On one occasion, all the Hermæ in Athens were mutilated in the same night. Alcibiades was accus

s as mounted on an ass, and following the car of Bacchus. Ques. What were the first exploits of Bacchus? Ans. He distingui

of the East. Ques. How was he worshipped? Ans. The goat and the hog were offered to him in sacrifice; and the ivy, the fir

n sacrifice; and the ivy, the fir, the bindweed, the fig and the vine were consecrated to him. Ques. What feasts were held

eed, the fig and the vine were consecrated to him. Ques. What feasts were held in his honor? Ans. The feasts of Bacchus we

Ques. What feasts were held in his honor? Ans. The feasts of Bacchus were various. The Bacchanalia or Orgia were the most c

r? Ans. The feasts of Bacchus were various. The Bacchanalia or Orgia were the most celebrated. They were at first participa

were various. The Bacchanalia or Orgia were the most celebrated. They were at first participated in by women only but afterw

. They were at first participated in by women only but afterwards men were admitted to join in these rites. The women were c

ly but afterwards men were admitted to join in these rites. The women were called Bacchantes, and ran about with their hair

ies. Having presumed to intrude on the revels of the Bacchantes, they were seized by a sort of madness, and rushing upon the

ppy man, tore him to pieces. The mother of Pentheus, and her sisters, were the leaders in this act, which was considered to

shment inflicted on Alcithoe [Alcitho′e] and her sisters? Ans. These were Theban maidens who ridiculed the orgies of Bacchu

dle, and singing over their tasks. For this, Alcithoe and her sisters were transformed by the power of Bacchus into bats; an

of Bacchus into bats; and the spindle and yarn with which they worked were changed to ivy. Ques. Relate the transformation

is feet, and when the terrified sailors tried to leap overboard, they were suddenly changed into dolphins. The captain was s

an unlucky fall, and Ganymede was appointed in her place. Ques. What were Juno’s faults? Ans. She was very jealous, and to

hiefly honored at Argos, Samos and Platæa. The victims offered to her were kine, ewe lambs, and sows. The cow was consecrate

ays rode in a chariot drawn by oxen. The sacred plants of the goddess were , the willow, pomegranate, the dittany and the lil

name in Greek. Ques. What was the Palladium? Ans. When the Trojans were building the temple and castle of Minerva in Troy

eks besieged Troy, they found that all their efforts to take the city were of no avail; they determined, therefore, to steal

usa was one of three sisters, the daughters of Phorcus. These maidens were called Gorgons, and were all immortal, except Med

ers, the daughters of Phorcus. These maidens were called Gorgons, and were all immortal, except Medusa. The latter was at on

nts, and rendered her appearance so frightful that all who beheld her were changed to stone. The hero Perseus undertook an e

ed the fountain Hippocrene [Hippocre′ne]. All who drank of its waters were inspired by the Muses with a poetic spirit. Perse

rs, who carried her to heaven as soon she became of age. All the gods were astonished at the beauty of Venus, and many deman

s. Where had Venus temples? Ans. In many places. The most celebrated were at Paphos, Cytherea, Idalia and Cnidos. Ques. Wh

st celebrated were at Paphos, Cytherea, Idalia and Cnidos. Ques. Who were the companions of Venus? Ans. The Graces were he

and Cnidos. Ques. Who were the companions of Venus? Ans. The Graces were her attendants, and she was generally accompanied

s blind. Ques. What do you say of the festivals of Venus? Ans. They were various, and accompanied by much that was disgrac

that was disgraceful and immoral. The swan, the dove, and the sparrow were sacred to this goddess; and among plants, the ros

ants, the rose, the myrtle and the apple. Incense, fruits and flowers were the ordinary sacrifices laid on her altars but bi

and flowers were the ordinary sacrifices laid on her altars but birds were sometimes offered. Ques. What remarkable temple

was determined to revenge the slight; she entered secretly, when all were assembled, and threw among them a golden apple on

would marry him who should excel her in the race, but that those who were beaten should suffer death. Hard as were these co

the race, but that those who were beaten should suffer death. Hard as were these conditions, many suitors presented themselv

as were these conditions, many suitors presented themselves, but they were all unsuccessful, and were put to death without m

any suitors presented themselves, but they were all unsuccessful, and were put to death without mercy. Hippomenes determined

n that flower, which then assumed its present crimson hue. Ques. Who were the Graces? Ans. They were inferior goddesses, w

sumed its present crimson hue. Ques. Who were the Graces? Ans. They were inferior goddesses, who presided over the banquet

the dance and all social enjoyments and elegant arts. Ques. How many were there? Ans. They were three in number. Their nam

l enjoyments and elegant arts. Ques. How many were there? Ans. They were three in number. Their names were Euphrosyne [Eup

es. How many were there? Ans. They were three in number. Their names were Euphrosyne [Euphro′syne], Aglaia [Agla′ia] and Th

related in another place. The sufferings of the giant Tityus in hell, were also the penalty of an insult offered to this god

s, and gave him two presents which she had received from Diana. These were , a dog that was always sure of its prey, and an a

ppeared on the field, and changed the fortune of the day. The Trojans were routed in their turn, and Memnon fell by the hand

gonia. Here they raised his tomb in a sacred grove, and his obsequies were celebrated with solemn pomp. The sparks, as they

ted with solemn pomp. The sparks, as they rose from the funeral pyre, were changed into birds, which divided into two flocks

o two flocks, and fought together until they fell into the flames and were consumed. According to the poets, Aurora was neve

s. It appeared quite certain that the sounds of which we have spoken, were really heard from this statue at sunrise; the onl

statue at sunrise; the only question is as to the means by which they were produced. The Colossus, although in a sitting pos

ich it rests is thirty feet long and eighteen broad. These dimensions were sufficient to admit of any internal machinery tha

earth brought forth its fruits without labor. Ques. What sacrifices were offered to Saturn? Ans. He was worshipped with h

pposed by the ancients to exercise a malignant influence. Ques. What were the Saturnalia? Ans. They were solemnities insti

se a malignant influence. Ques. What were the Saturnalia? Ans. They were solemnities instituted by Tullus Hostilius, king

lius Cæsar, it was prolonged to three, four, or five days. Ques. How were these days observed? Ans. They were a season of

, four, or five days. Ques. How were these days observed? Ans. They were a season of general rejoicing; the Senate did not

le while their masters served, and reproved the latter freely if they were guilty of any awkwardness. Lastly, servants and c

ey were guilty of any awkwardness. Lastly, servants and common people were allowed to wear purple cloaks, a distinction rese

mples in Rome. The gates of the chief temple, that of Janus Quirinus, were always open in time of war, and closed when the R

Quirinus, were always open in time of war, and closed when the Romans were at peace. It is a remarkable circumstance that th

ere at peace. It is a remarkable circumstance that the gates of Janus were closed but three times in seven hundred years. Th

tes of Janus were closed but three times in seven hundred years. They were shut for the first time in the reign of Numa; aga

god of fire, and the patron of blacksmiths and armorers. Ques. What were the most celebrated works of Vulcan? Ans. The ar

ed treacherously towards him and attached herself to Mars. Ques. Who were the servants of Vulcan? Ans. The attendants of V

Ques. Who were the servants of Vulcan? Ans. The attendants of Vulcan were called Cyclops, because they had each one eye in

ps, because they had each one eye in the middle of the forehead; they were the offspring of Neptune and Amphitrite [Amphitri

een that they could discover whether the persons coming to the temple were virtuous or wicked. To the servants of Vulcan mig

hey reached the open sea. Some writers have imagined that the Cyclops were a race of miners, who, descending into the deep r

s house, because it was immovable and could not be carried away if it were placed among bad neighbors. He said that Vulcan w

f homes and firesides, and was a household divinity. Statues of Vesta were placed by the Romans at the entrance of their hou

o the Vestal Virgins? Ans. The penalties for neglect of their duties were severe. If the sacred fire was extinguished throu

e. If the sacred fire was extinguished through their negligence, they were sometimes cruelly punished, and if any Virgin inf

eleven centuries. We are told that during this period, twenty Vestals were condemned to death. Of these, seven were permitte

this period, twenty Vestals were condemned to death. Of these, seven were permitted to take their own lives, thirteen suffe

his kind took place in the reign of the emperor Domitian. Ques. What were the privileges of the Vestal Virgins? Ans. In re

estal Virgins? Ans. In recompense for these severe laws, the Vestals were treated with extraordinary respect. They had the

on, he was immediately pardoned. Public documents of great importance were generally entrusted to their care. A striking ins

sion proceeded quietly to the capital. Ques. How many Vestal Virgins were there? Ans. The number has been variously stated

ors mention six, others seven, as the number actually in office. They were chosen between the ages of six and ten; for ten y

They were chosen between the ages of six and ten; for ten years they were employed in learning their duty; they remained in

ning their duty; they remained in office for ten, and ten other years were employed in instructing the novices. If there wer

nd ten other years were employed in instructing the novices. If there were seven Vestals always in office, the entire number

ishes Juno and Ceres. Ques. How was she worshipped? Ans. Sacrifices were first offered to this goddess in Phrygia and Lydi

were first offered to this goddess in Phrygia and Lydia. Her temples were generally built on the summits of mountains; that

r extravagances, but the people regarded them with reverence, as they were believed, while in this state, to possess the gif

of Proserpine (Persephone [Perse′phone]). Ans. None of the goddesses were willing to marry Pluto, or share his gloomy kingd

hat he had seen her eat some seeds of pomegranate. The hopes of Ceres were thus destroyed, but Proserpine was so indignant a

earth, the other six with Pluto in the infernal regions. Ques. What were the most famous solemnities instituted in honor o

d in honor of Ceres? Ans. The Eleusian or Eleusinian Mysteries. They were named from Eleusis, a town in Greece where they w

Mysteries. They were named from Eleusis, a town in Greece where they were celebrated. Ques. What rites were practiced duri

eusis, a town in Greece where they were celebrated. Ques. What rites were practiced during these mysteries? Ans. We cannot

s the ceremonies without having been regularly initiated. Disclosures were made, however, which seem to prove that the perso

n, and the ceremonies concluded with feasting and dancing. Ques. Who were admitted to these rites? Ans. Athenians only; bu

nything, was initiated, and after him, other distinguished foreigners were admitted to what were called the Lesser Mysteries

, and after him, other distinguished foreigners were admitted to what were called the Lesser Mysteries. The Athenians were e

were admitted to what were called the Lesser Mysteries. The Athenians were eager to be admitted to these rites, because they

ause they believed that the souls of those who had not been initiated were left to wallow in mud and filth in the lower regi

n a splendid chariot drawn by flying serpents. Ques. What sacrifices were offered to Ceres? Ans. Young heifers, swine and

es? Ans. Young heifers, swine and ears of corn, wine, milk and honey were used in the libations. Ques. What were the Ambar

of corn, wine, milk and honey were used in the libations. Ques. What were the Ambarvalia? Ans. They were feasts kept in th

re used in the libations. Ques. What were the Ambarvalia? Ans. They were feasts kept in the beginning of harvest, preparat

are Nine Muses — Punishment or the Daughters of Pierus. Ques. Who were the Muses? Ans. They were the daughters of Jupit

t or the Daughters of Pierus. Ques. Who were the Muses? Ans. They were the daughters of Jupiter and Mnemosyne [Mnemo′syn

s. They were the daughters of Jupiter and Mnemosyne [Mnemo′syne], and were supposed to preside over the liberal arts and sci

to preside over the liberal arts and sciences. Ques. How many Muses were there? Ans. They were nine in number, and each p

beral arts and sciences. Ques. How many Muses were there? Ans. They were nine in number, and each presided over some parti

some particular department of literature, art or science. Their names were : Calliope [Calli′ope], who was the Muse of epic p

d for the number of Muses? Ans. They say that in ancient times there were but three Muses. The citizens of Sicyon employed

those which they should consider the most beautiful. When the statues were finished, they were found to be so skillfully wro

uld consider the most beautiful. When the statues were finished, they were found to be so skillfully wrought, that it was im

so skillfully wrought, that it was impossible to make a choice. They were all placed in the temple, and the poet Hesiod aft

Ans. These maidens challenged the Muses to a contest in music; they were defeated and transformed into magpies by the indi

e Gauls, under their King Brennus, made an irruption into Greece, and were about to plunder the temple of Apollo at Delphi,

ous sounds, so that he formed them into a rustic pipe. Milk and honey were offered to Pan. Satyrs and Fauns. Ques. Wh

ilk and honey were offered to Pan. Satyrs and Fauns. Ques. Who were these? Ans. They were hideous monsters who dwelt

red to Pan. Satyrs and Fauns. Ques. Who were these? Ans. They were hideous monsters who dwelt in forests, and were,

ere these? Ans. They were hideous monsters who dwelt in forests, and were , like Pan, half man and half goat. Terminus.

ne to trespass on another’s boundaries. Landmarks and boundary stones were considered sacred by the Romans; they were crowne

dmarks and boundary stones were considered sacred by the Romans; they were crowned with garlands on festivals, offerings wer

y the Romans; they were crowned with garlands on festivals, offerings were laid upon them, and it was death for any one to r

d over the seasons; he was the husband of Pomona. Statues of this god were erected in every town of Italy. His festival call

ith the sun. In hell, she was called Hecate [Hec′ate], and as spirits were supposed to be subject to her, she was invoked un

nvoked under the latter name in all magical incantations. Ques. What were the habits of Diana? Ans. She shunned the societ

ain of virgins who had resolved, like her, never to marry. Ques. Who were the attendants of Diana? Ans. Sometimes the Ocea

ed among the seven wonders of the world. Two hundred and twenty years were spent in the building, although an incredible num

were spent in the building, although an incredible number of workmen were employed. The entire length of the temple was 425

he goddess was of ebony, and the most skillful painters and sculptors were employed in the decorations of the edifice. A man

ostles that when they began to make converts in that city, the people were very indignant; in their zeal for their goddess t

a Sophia, in Constantinople, rests upon pillars of green jasper which were removed from the temple of Diana by order of Just

Diana by order of Justinian. Two pillars of the great church of Pisa were also taken from this temple, which has been so co

destroyed that the exact site is not known. Nymphs. Ques. Who were the Nymphs? Ans. They were graceful young women

te is not known. Nymphs. Ques. Who were the Nymphs? Ans. They were graceful young women who attended on Diana and th

oddesses. Some, also, had charge of certain fountains and rivers, and were called Naiades [Na′iades]; the nymphs of Ocean we

s and rivers, and were called Naiades [Na′iades]; the nymphs of Ocean were Nereides [Nere′ides] and Oceanides. The Oreades [

Ocean were Nereides [Nere′ides] and Oceanides. The Oreades [Ore′ades] were mountain nymphs, and others presided over groves

s, and others presided over groves and even single trees. Ques. What were the woodland nymphs called? Ans. Those who watch

Those who watched over the forests, and always lived among the trees, were called Dryades [Dry′ades], from a Greek word whic

from a Greek word which means an oak; the Hamadryades [Hamadry′ades] were so called because they were attached, each to som

ns an oak; the Hamadryades [Hamadry′ades] were so called because they were attached, each to some particular oak. The Hamadr

e terrified nymph had sped through all Arcadia; the shades of evening were gathering, and Alpheus pressed close upon her fai

n Greece, rose in the fountain of Arethusa, and that its clear waters were reddened with the blood of the victims slain at t

away till nothing remained of her but her voice and bones. The latter were changed into stones, but the voice is still heard

here many rural divinities? Ans. Yes, a great number; but only a few were well known. Among those we may mention Pomona, th

tune’s chariot moved upon the waters, the sea grew calm, and tempests were appeased. Ques. What were the offices of Neptune

he waters, the sea grew calm, and tempests were appeased. Ques. What were the offices of Neptune? Ans. He conducted ships

ed? Ans. Neptune had an altar in the Circus at Rome where sacrifices were offered, and plays were acted, representing the c

altar in the Circus at Rome where sacrifices were offered, and plays were acted, representing the carrying off of the Sabin

rrying off of the Sabine women. The solemn games in honor of this god were called Consualia, and were celebrated in the mont

men. The solemn games in honor of this god were called Consualia, and were celebrated in the month of March. While these las

and were celebrated in the month of March. While these lasted, horses were released from work, and mules were adorned with g

March. While these lasted, horses were released from work, and mules were adorned with garlands. Ques. Who were the most r

released from work, and mules were adorned with garlands. Ques. Who were the most remarkable of Neptune’s children? Ans.

on use; each one wore it in turn, in the middle of her forehead. They were the guardians of the Gorgons, of whom Medusa was

, and his hair resembled wild parsley. Ques. What other sea-monsters were celebrated? Ans. The Sirens, also Scylla, and Ch

celebrated? Ans. The Sirens, also Scylla, and Charybdis. Ques. Who were the Sirens? Ans. They were monsters who had the

s, also Scylla, and Charybdis. Ques. Who were the Sirens? Ans. They were monsters who had the faces of women, but the bodi

hour had come, and flung themselves headlong into the sea, where they were transformed into rocks. Ques. Who was Circe? An

eptune. In the division of his father’s kingdom, the infernal regions were allotted to him, and he is therefore called the k

al regions was by a wide, dark cave, through which the departed souls were obliged to pass; they next came to a gloomy grove

lake. The ghosts of those who had not been buried with funeral rites, were obliged to wander for a hundred years by the gloo

clothed with snakes instead of hair. Fates — Furies. Ques. Who were the Fates? Ans. They were three sisters, the dau

of hair. Fates — Furies. Ques. Who were the Fates? Ans. They were three sisters, the daughters of Chaos, who were a

the Fates? Ans. They were three sisters, the daughters of Chaos, who were appointed to watch over the thread of human life.

ho were appointed to watch over the thread of human life. Their names were , Clotho, Lachesis [Lach′esis] and Atropos [At′rop

ppointed moment, Atropos cut the thread with her scissors. Ques. Who were the Furies? Ans. They were three sisters, Alecto

the thread with her scissors. Ques. Who were the Furies? Ans. They were three sisters, Alecto [Alecto], Tisiphone [Tisi′p

ice was to torment the wicked during life and after death. Ques. How were they represented? Ans. As hideous women with ter

air, and carried snaky whips and lighted torches in their hands. They were often called by the Greeks Eumenides [Eumen′ides]

ere often called by the Greeks Eumenides [Eumen′ides]. Ques. Of what were the Furies an emblem? Ans. Of the evil passions

Punishments inflicted on the Condemned. Ques. Besides Pluto, who were appointed judges of the dead? Ans. Minos, Rhadam

dges of the dead? Ans. Minos, Rhadamanthus and Æacus [Æ′acus]. These were princes, who governed so justly during life, that

that the fate of the dead was entrusted to them. Ques. What offices were assigned to each? Ans. Rhadamanthus judged the A

when a very difficult case arose it was referred to Minos. Ques. Who were the most famous among the condemned? Ans. The gi

a sudden gust of wind whenever he attempts to pluck them. Ques. Who were the Belides [Beli′des]? Ans. They were fifty mai

pts to pluck them. Ques. Who were the Belides [Beli′des]? Ans. They were fifty maidens, daughters of Danaus [Dan′aus] and

rified from whatever slight offences they had committed in life, they were conducted to a place abounding in delights, calle

us monsters besides those of Hell? Ans. Yes, many; the Centaurs, who were half man and half horse; also Geryon, who was kin

fable as a monster. He was probably a wicked and cruel prince. There were also the Harpies, which had the faces of women an

Ans. Poets thus described a volcano in Lycia, on the summit of which were lions; in the middle was pasture-land frequented

Virtues worshipped as Divinities. Penates — Lares. Ques. What were the Penates [Pena′tes]? Ans. This name was given

s. This name was given to a certain class of household deities, which were worshipped by the Romans in the penetralia, or in

sser Penates watched over particular houses and families. Ques. What were the Lares? Ans. They were, according to some, th

articular houses and families. Ques. What were the Lares? Ans. They were , according to some, the children of Mercury and t

, according to some, the children of Mercury and the nymph Lara; they were domestic gods, and presided over houses, streets

genius, who watched over him from his birth. In early times, children were sacrificed to the goddess Mania, who was supposed

ry altar of the Lares was the domestic hearth; hogs, sheep and steers were among the sacrifices offered to these divinities,

fices offered to these divinities, but the first fruits of the season were always laid upon the hearth. No family repast was

fetters, in token of gratitude, by the altar of the Lares. Ques. How were the Lares represented? Ans. Variously; sometimes

Virtues Worshipped by the Ancients. Vices. Ques. What Virtues were particularly honored as divinities? Ans. The anc

be reached by passing through that dedicated to Virtue, the votaries were reminded that it was by walking in her paths, tha

walking in her paths, that true honor was to be attained. Ques. What were the emblems of Truth? Ans. She was generally rep

d to have been founded by Numa Pompilius. The symbols of this goddess were , a white dog, two hands joined, or sometimes two

hands joined, or sometimes two maidens with joined hands. Ques. What were the emblems of Peace? Ans. Pax, or Peace, was re

f high rank, married into a plebeian family. The noble ladies of Rome were so indignant at this alliance, that they would no

ht still excel in modest behavior and purity of life. The two temples were from that time distinguished as Pudicitia Patrici

uch honored by the Romans. In ancient times, certain days in the year were set apart for her worship. Her emblems were a bow

certain days in the year were set apart for her worship. Her emblems were a bowl and a serpent. Liberty was honored as a di

ples to thunder and lightning, earthquake, pestilence, etc. The Vices were always represented in such a manner as to excite

rew an allegorical picture, in which the odious features of this Vice were strikingly portrayed. A man sits in a listening a

, who is seen advancing slowly in the distance. Discord, Fraud, etc., were represented with appropriate symbols. Chapter

ors of the Hero — Field of Narbonne — Death of Hercules. Ques. Who were the Demigods? Ans. They were brave men, who had

bonne — Death of Hercules. Ques. Who were the Demigods? Ans. They were brave men, who had rendered themselves famous in

rious actions. After their death, their countrymen believed that they were admitted among the gods, and gave them divine hon

e bodies. Hercules brought into Italy the oxen of this monster, which were accustomed to feed on human flesh. Eleventh. He

y of the Golden Fleece. Jason, with some brave companions, among whom were Hercules, Orpheus, Castor and Pollux, went on boa

x, went on board a ship called the Argo, from which circumstance they were called Argonauts [Ar′gonauts]. On arriving at Col

Ans. He was the son of Ægeus [Æ′geus], king of Athens. The Athenians were obliged to send every year, as tribute to Crete,

, seven of the noblest of their young men, and as many maidens. These were usually devoured by a horrible monster called Min

ound, and as many underneath. These apartments had so many doors, and were connected by such intricate windings, that no one

o deliver the Athenians from this dreadful tribute, and when the lots were about being cast for the fourth time, he offered

urning victorious. When they arrived in Crete, the youths and maidens were exhibited before King Minos; and Ariadne, the dau

Box — Punishment of Prometheus. Castor And Pollux. Ques. Who were Castor and Pollux? Ans. They were twin brothers,

Castor And Pollux. Ques. Who were Castor and Pollux? Ans. They were twin brothers, the sons of Jupiter and Leda. Cast

sent Pandora [Pando′ra] to Prometheus with a mysterious box, in which were imprisoned all the evils which have since afflict

was murdered during the orgies of Bacchus, by the Thracian women, who were incensed at the coldness with which he had treate

tearing him to pieces, they threw his head into the river Hebrus, and were surprised to hear its murmur, “Eurydice, Eurydice

Niobe, and became the father of seven sons and as many daughters, who were all slain by Apollo and Diana. He is said to have

a lofty mountain, to which his name was afterwards given. Ques. Who were the children of Atlas? Ans. By his wife Pelione

as? Ans. By his wife Pelione [Peli′one], he had seven daughters, who were called Pleiades; they were changed into stars, an

ne [Peli′one], he had seven daughters, who were called Pleiades; they were changed into stars, and form the beautiful group

had seven other daughters who underwent the same transformation; they were placed in the head of Taurus, and were called by

the same transformation; they were placed in the head of Taurus, and were called by the Greeks, Hyades, from a word which s

a word which signifies “to rain.” The Hesperides, or Western Maidens, were three celebrated nymphs, concerning whose parenta

eaks of them as the daughters of Night, but according to others, they were the offspring of Atlas and Hesperis. At the brida

ese, Juno most admired some branches loaded with golden apples, which were offered by the goddess of the Earth. She begged t

in her gardens, which extended as far as Mount Atlas. The Hesperides were directed to watch these trees, but they proved un

t the country could not be freed from this calamity, unless Andromeda were given up to be devoured by the monster. Cepheus c

displayed the frightful trophy, upon which Phineus and his followers were changed into stone, in the very attitudes in whic

cidental blow of a quoit. Perseus, Andromeda, Cepheus, and Cassiopeia were changed, after death, into the constellations whi

aters. Of the entire human race, only Deucalion and his wife, Pyrrha, were saved. When the waters abated, the ship in which

e, Pyrrha, were saved. When the waters abated, the ship in which they were carried rested upon Mount Parnassus, and they con

ucalion assumed human form and became men, and those thrown by Pyrrha were changed into women. Ques. How is this fable expl

this fable explained? Ans. It is supposed that Deucalion and Pyrrha were remarkable for their piety and virtue; and that b

city of their subjects. In this manner they softened those who before were hard like stones, so that gentleness and humanity

urpose, he made wings for himself and his son Icarus [Ic′arus], which were so skilfully contrived, that, by their aid, they

improvements made in those early times in architecture and sculpture were attributed to him by popular tradition. He introd

s resembled those of an Indian elephant. The cornfields and vineyards were trampled down in its path, and the terrified husb

Ajax, Nestor, then a youth, and many others of heroic fame. All eyes were , however, attracted by the fair huntress Atalanta

Megara; this city was closely besieged by Minos, but all his efforts were vain, as the Fates had decreed that it should not

this poet is involved in obscurity. The two biographies of him which were formerly attributed to Herodotus and Plutarch, ar

ded for the honor of having given this great poet to the world; these were Smyrna, Chios, Colophon [Col′ophon], Salamis [Sal

and the friendship of the most distinguished men in Rome; his verses were universally admired, they were sung in the street

distinguished men in Rome; his verses were universally admired, they were sung in the streets and at entertainments, or wer

ally admired, they were sung in the streets and at entertainments, or were recited in the theatre amid bursts of applause. O

everity of the climate, and the inroads of the barbarians, the fields were without grain, the hills without vines; no statel

her maidens, various articles of female attire. Some pieces of armor were disposed among the merchandise; by the order of U

f the funeral rites. Achilles was himself slain soon after; his ashes were mingled in a golden urn with those of Patroclus,

e to Modesty, on the spot where they parted. When the Grecian princes were called upon to revenge the abduction of Helen, Ul

ses. After some adventures of minor importance, the ships of the hero were overtaken by a storm which drove them southward f

he tempest abated, Ulysses sent some of his companions on shore. They were kindly entertained by the Lotus-eaters, who regal

uch a nature, that all who partook of it forgot home and friends, and were filled with a sort of indolent contentment, so th

should be held inviolate, however pressing their wants might be. They were detained a long time at Thrinakia by contrary win

ompanions by an oath that they would not touch the sacred herds. They were , however, so pressed by famine that they ventured

. When a long time had elapsed after the fall of Troy, and no tidings were received of Ulysses, it was generally believed th

of Ulysses, through twelve rings suspended in a line. The conditions were accepted: and it was on the very eve of the day a

Ulysses should also go, but in the disguise of a beggar. Such persons were often admitted, in ancient times, to the halls of

ere they entertained the guests with stories of their wanderings, and were regaled with a portion of the viands. On their ar

ntest of skill which was to decide the fate of Penelope. Twelve rings were suspended at equal distances, and Telemachus brou

tify the old man, bade him try. Ulysses took the bow, and the suitors were amazed to see him handle the mighty weapon as if

t Eumæus secured the doors. A desperate struggle ensued, in which all were slain, and Ulysses was left master of his palace

sister Electra, to avenge the murder of his father, and her counsels were confirmed by the responses of the oracle of Apoll

to sacrifice all strangers at the altar of Diana; Orestes and Pylades were accordingly seized on their arrival, and carried

she was about to be immolated at Aulis. Perceiving that the strangers were Greeks, she offered to spare the life of one, on

d Iphigenia resolved to fly from Tauris with her brother. Their plans were so well laid, that they not only succeeded in esc

o well laid, that they not only succeeded in escaping unobserved, but were also enabled to carry off the statue of Diana, wh

d to Athens, where he was tried by the court of Areopagus. The judges were divided in their sentiments, but Minerva interfer

ks, by a prediction, that if Astyanax [Asty′anax], the son of Hector, were permitted to live, he would one day avenge his fa

law. The command of the expedition was given to seven chieftains, who were to attack each one of the seven gates of Thebes.

fell, mortally wounded. The battle was then renewed, and the Argives were totally defeated. Creon, the uncle of the fallen

grave, as, according to Greek superstition, the souls of the unburied were excluded for a hundred years from the Elysian fie

many wanderings and adventures, they landed at Epirus [Epi′rus], and were rejoiced to learn that Helenus [Hel′enus], one of

shores of Italy. In the seventh year of their wanderings, the Trojans were driven by a storm on the coast of Africa; here th

the Trojans were driven by a storm on the coast of Africa; here they were kindly entertained by Dido, who was then engaged

o governed a part of the island, the women, the aged men, and all who were likely to be useless in the wars which awaited hi

ow, Æneas found the shade of Anchises, who showed him the souls which were destined to return to earth, and become the futur

Rome. Anchises also recounted to Æneas the glorious deeds which they were one day to perform. In this passage, Virgil takes

he hand of Lavinia was the price of victory, and from the Trojan hero were descended the founders of Rome. The Æneid conclud

erent Classes of Omens — Anecdote. Sibyls — Augurs. Ques. Who were the Sibyls? Ans. The Sibyllæ, or Sibyls, were ce

 Augurs. Ques. Who were the Sibyls? Ans. The Sibyllæ, or Sibyls, were certain females, supposed to be inspired by Heave

different parts of the world. According to the historian Varro, they were ten in number. The most celebrated was the Cumæan

and still persisted in demanding the same sum of money for those that were left. This extraordinary conduct astonished the m

pon which the sibyl disappeared and was never seen after. These books were preserved with great care, and were called the Si

was never seen after. These books were preserved with great care, and were called the Sibylline Verses. A college of priests

. A college of priests was appointed to take charge of them, and they were consulted with the greatest solemnity, whenever t

conflagration. It is believed, however, on good authority, that they were in existence as late as the fourth century, when

that they were in existence as late as the fourth century, when they were destroyed by command of the Emperor Honorius. Var

ere destroyed by command of the Emperor Honorius. Various collections were afterwards made, which are generally admitted to

Rome to the new dispensation. It has been thought that these passages were invented by later Christian writers, but Bishop H

se that the sibylline books contained the records of prophecies which were granted in primitive times, to nations outside of

among the pagans. Divination by Omens — The Augurs. Ques. Who were the Augurs? Ans. They were priests whose office

tion by Omens — The Augurs. Ques. Who were the Augurs? Ans. They were priests whose office it was to observe and interp

ret omens. This science was derived from the ancient Etrurians. There were five principal classes of omens from which the Au

ans. There were five principal classes of omens from which the Augurs were supposed to foretell future events, the good or i

ure events, the good or ill success of an undertaking, etc. The first were drawn from the phenomena of nature, such as thund

r had forfeited the favor of the gods by this act of sacrilege. Omens were drawn from the appearance of the entrails of anim

understand by oracles? Ans. The places where the heathen divinities were supposed to answer those who consulted them, were

heathen divinities were supposed to answer those who consulted them, were called oracles. This word was also applied to the

Name some of the more famous oracles? Ans. Among the most celebrated were , the oracles of Jupiter at Dodona [Dodo′na]; of A

ranches, clashed together when moved by the wind. The priestesses who were appointed to explain the responses of the oracle

dron, and produced so continuous a sound that four hundred vibrations were sometimes counted before it ceased. Demosthenes t

enes tells us that the responses delivered to the Athenians at Dodona were carefully preserved in the public archives; their

m from accusing the priestess of being influenced by bribes when they were dissatisfied with her answers. The oracle of Dodo

de. The words which she uttered when under the influence of the vapor were considered to be inspired by Apollo; crowds came

rembling seized her whole body. She then spoke prophetic words, which were carefully noted by the attendant priests. The ora

rds, which were carefully noted by the attendant priests. The oracles were sometimes in verse, but more commonly in prose; i

metimes in verse, but more commonly in prose; in the latter case they were immediately versified by poets employed for that

s having been delivered at Delphi, but as a general thing the answers were ambiguous, and so cautiously worded as to seem tr

ften influenced by persuasion or bribes, and many illustrious persons were accused of having bought the oracles they desired

under their king Brennus. According to Pausanias, the city and temple were saved by Pan, as we have seen in the account give

le remarkable? Ans. Trophonius, and his brother Agamedes [Agame′des] were the architects of the temple of Apollo at Delphi.

a time of severe drought the Bœotians consulted Apollo at Delphi, and were directed to seek aid from Trophonius in Lebadea.

oracle of Trophonius, and the aid they sought. Ques. What ceremonies were observed in consulting this oracle? Ans. The vot

and there was apparently nothing to aid the descent. Here, those who were courageous enough to advance, lay upon the ground

taking care to hold in each hand a certain composition of honey. They were then carried downwards with great force, as by th

e should judge, from the accounts given by ancient writers, that they were subjected to a treatment closely resembling what

as ever heard of this expedition, it seems probable that the Persians were purposely misled by their Egyptian guides, and th

mmon to question the oracle as to his parentage; and the priests, who were undoubtedly apprised of the object of his visit,

he votaries, and inspire them with a confident hope of recovery. They were obliged to sleep in the temple, and we should jud

e should judge, from the accounts given by ancient writers, that they were subjected to a treatment closely resembling what

gainst Mithridates. Ques. Where was the Castalian Fount? Ans. There were two celebrated springs of that name; one on Mount

the heathen oracles? Ans. They believed that although the responses were to be attributed, as a general thing, to mere hum

uted, as a general thing, to mere human jugglery and imposture, there were occasions in which it was impossible to doubt the

n Scripture that Satan spoke by the mouths of the possessed, and none were more likely to fall under this demoniac influence

istianity spread, these impostures fell gradually into disrepute, and were at length entirely abandoned. It has been asserte

a notice of these games appropriate in this place? Ans. Because they were closely connected with the religious observances

closely connected with the religious observances of the Greeks. They were begun and ended with solemn sacrifices, and forme

gods. These remarks apply also to the Greek drama. Ques. What games were solemnized in Greece? Ans. They were of four kin

Greek drama. Ques. What games were solemnized in Greece? Ans. They were of four kinds: the Olympic, the Pythian, the Neme

and the Isthmian. Ques. Who instituted the Olympic games? Ans. They were very ancient; their first institution was attribu

heir first institution was attributed by the Greeks to Hercules. They were revived by Iphitus, king of Elis, who obtained fo

or them the solemn sanction of the Delphic oracle. The Olympian games were celebrated at intervals of forty-nine and fifty l

ad, and the Greeks usually counted time in this manner. The Olympiads were reckoned only from the year 776, B. C., although

ng, wrestling, boxing, throwing the discus or quoit, etc. All persons were admitted to contend in these games who could prov

ons were admitted to contend in these games who could prove that they were free, of pure Hellenic blood, and that their char

t was the importance attached to race, that even the kings of Macedon were obliged to prove their Hellenic descent before th

s of Macedon were obliged to prove their Hellenic descent before they were allowed to enter as competitors. It is almost imp

e, but through a breach made in the walls for his reception. Banquets were given to him by his friends, at which odes were s

s reception. Banquets were given to him by his friends, at which odes were sung in honor of his victory. The horse and chari

present at the games. The Greek historians relate that three couriers were received by Philip of Macedon on the same day, ea

, feasted the entire multitude assembled to witness the games. Ladies were admitted to dispute the prizes at Olympia, and ma

was erected in Sparta in honor of Cynisca, and the Lacedæmonians, who were generally indifferent to the charms of verse, eng

received with enthusiastic applause, and the names of the nine muses were immediately given to the nine books which compose

se verses their clear and harmonious voices pleased the ear, and they were listened to at first with great attention, which

little variation to those solemnized in other places. Ques. By whom were the Pythian Games instituted? Ans. According to

onic council was charged with the superintendence of the games, which were celebrated at first every ninth, and afterwards e

erwards every fifth year. The crown bestowed was of bay. Ques. Where were the Nemean games celebrated? Ans. At Nemea [Ne′m

Argolis, celebrated as the haunt of the lion slain by Hercules. They were said to have been restored by that hero, and were

n by Hercules. They were said to have been restored by that hero, and were celebrated every third year. The crowns bestowed

were celebrated every third year. The crowns bestowed on the victors were of parsley, because these were originally funeral

ar. The crowns bestowed on the victors were of parsley, because these were originally funeral games, and it was customary to

emea are to be seen near the modern village of Kutchumadi. Ques. Why were the Isthmian Games so called? Ans. They were nam

Kutchumadi. Ques. Why were the Isthmian Games so called? Ans. They were named from the Isthmus of Corinth, where they wer

called? Ans. They were named from the Isthmus of Corinth, where they were celebrated. They were instituted in honor of Meli

e named from the Isthmus of Corinth, where they were celebrated. They were instituted in honor of Melicertes, who was change

was changed into a sea deity. After falling into neglect, these games were restored by Theseus. They were celebrated every f

fter falling into neglect, these games were restored by Theseus. They were celebrated every five years, and continued to be

ized even after the destruction of Corinth by the Romans. The victors were at first rewarded with garlands of pine leaves, b

lan of a Greek theatre? Ans. It was quite open above, and the dramas were always acted in the light of day, beneath the bri

ce. For the convenience of entering and leaving, the tiers of benches were divided at intervals, by passages extending aroun

e lower seats, being more conveniently placed for seeing and hearing, were esteemed the most honorable, and were reserved fo

placed for seeing and hearing, were esteemed the most honorable, and were reserved for the high magistrates, the priests an

y. When the nature of the play rendered it necessary, these buildings were concealed by painted scenes. In the greater numbe

ed on appropriately enough in the portico or court of a palace. There were also contrivances by which a portion of the inter

entre of the proscenium being reserved for royalty. Wonderful effects were produced by the use of the machinery which was di

heir allotted part in the drama. Heroes also ascended to Olympus, and were hidden at length from view by scenic clouds. In t

sts and infernal deities ascended from beneath the stage, where there were appropriate contrivances for their introduction.

here anything peculiar in the dress of the actors? Ans. The costumes were splendid, and carefully adapted to the rank and c

e masks which covered the entire head. When gods or heroic personages were represented, the masks were larger than life, and

tire head. When gods or heroic personages were represented, the masks were larger than life, and the disproportion of the si

so as to give the whole figure the necessary heroic dimensions. Women were not admitted on the Greek stage; the female parts

ensions. Women were not admitted on the Greek stage; the female parts were always performed by men, wearing appropriate wigs

xtent, but we must remember that, at the distance at which the actors were placed from the greater part of their audience, t

rmed by an actor with strongly marked or ordinary features. The masks were lined with brass, and so constructed that instead

ding to the nature of the piece. All the movements of a tragic chorus were slow and grave, while in the lighter pieces, the

while in the lighter pieces, the music and the measures of the dance were quick and lively. The dress of the chorus varied

in tragedies, these singers personated the Eumenides or Furies. These were generally robed in black, with purple girdles. Th

recognized, and the multitude assembled to witness the Isthmian games were sorely disappointed and dismayed at the sad tidin

the fate of Ibycus being still on every tongue. The assembled people were assisting at a dramatic representation, when the

y part in the celebration of the principal festivals. The best actors were engaged long beforehand, and were subject to heav

rincipal festivals. The best actors were engaged long beforehand, and were subject to heavy fines if they failed to appear o

good seats, as the performance commenced at a very early hour. There were three or four distinct representations during the

ly presented two or three pieces each, so that twelve complete dramas were sometimes performed on the same day. Ques. Were

magistrates to the poorer class of citizens. The theatres themselves were erected, and in a great measure maintained at the

ns given of the scenic arrangements. It is even said that when groves were required, living trees from the forest were plant

ven said that when groves were required, living trees from the forest were planted on the stage. Whatever may have been the

of plates of ivory skillfully laid on; but the drapery and ornaments were pure gold. This circumstance is sufficient to acc

in the British Museum. They are called “Elgin Marbles,” because they were brought from Greece by Lord Elgin. Ques. Describ

The mysterious rites of Isis became a cloak for much secret vice, and were repeatedly forbidden at Rome. Tiberius caused the

imal died, the soul passed into the body of its successor. Sacrifices were offered to this strange divinity; his birth-day w

and became harmless. A temple, two chapels, and a court for exercise, were assigned to this god, whose food was always serve

 Lines from Milton — Vision of Ezekiel — Oannes — Dagon. Ques. Who were these divinities? Ans. The names Baal and Moloch

ppellations of the Sun; later they assumed another signification, and were applied to distinct deities. Ques. Where was the

was Moloch? Ans. He was a divinity of the Ammonites. The Phœnicians were also particularly devoted to his worship. Young c

also particularly devoted to his worship. Young children and infants were offered as holocausts to this cruel god. These ho

were offered as holocausts to this cruel god. These horrid sacrifices were most frequent in Carthage. When the Sicilian Agat

told that five hundred infants, many the first-born of noble parents, were consumed in one day on the altar of Moloch. Ques

so contrived that when a child was laid upon its extended arms, they were lowered, and the little victim immediately fell i

Was Moloch worshipped by the Jews? Ans. Yes; it would seem that they were addicted to this idolatry before their departure

temple for his worship on the Mount of Olives. Later human sacrifices were offered to him in the valley of Hinnom, called al

honor, there is some foundation for this idea. Where human sacrifices were offered to Baal, wheaten cakes, wine and perfumes

man sacrifices were offered to Baal, wheaten cakes, wine and perfumes were laid upon the altar of Astaroth. Notwithstanding

by Zoroaster? Ans. But a small portion, if any, of the Sacred Books were written by him, but the most ancient passages, wh

re written by him, but the most ancient passages, which are in verse, were probably written soon after his time, when the kn

sta formerly consisted of twenty-one books, but that the greater part were lost in the troubled times that followed the conq

r, and teaches him his will with regard to his creatures. Ques. What were the doctrines of Zoroaster? Ans. This philosophe

nd imparted to them a portion of his own eternal divinity. Ques. Who were these deities? Ans. Ormuzd, or Oromasdes, who re

r been extinguished since the time of Zoroaster. All the sacred fires were originally lit from that which Zoroaster brought

the Hindoos, and are much reverenced by them. They maintain that they were composed by Brahma, the Supreme Deity, at the cre

d years ago. Ques. What is the more correct opinion? Ans. That they were written in the second thousand years before our e

then conquered the country which now bears their name? Ans. No; they were only crossing the borders of India. Ques. In wha

tes ancient? Ans. So much so, that it is impossible to say when they were first established. The Pariahs are being graduall

a religious teacher. He preached first in Benares, but his doctrines were received with so much favor that he lived to see

the most important exterior part of their religion, and the Japanese were so much attached to this form of idolatry, that t

s are admitted, which are now considered equally good, although there were formerly bitter wars between their followers. Qu

areful preparation, he set himself up as a teacher, and his disciples were soon numbered by tens of thousands. Confucius tra

; he was at one time prime minister of the empire, but his last years were spent in retirement with some chosen disciples. W

seventeenth century, they numbered eleven thousand males. Ques. What were the doctrines of Confucius? Ans. This philosophe

defective, contains much that is to be admired. It is a proof, if any were needed, that human motives are too weak to have a

Some of these missionaries believed that the honors paid to Confucius were purely civil observances; and that the worship of

souls of deceased relations, the oblations made at their tombs, etc., were simply national customs to which no superstitious

national customs to which no superstitious idea was attached. As they were assured of this by the most learned men of the Em

rites in honor of Confucius, together with the worship of ancestors, were forbidden to the Chinese Christians. Ques. Who w

e its own impress on the Scandinavian tribes, and their superstitions were gloomy and extravagant, with sometimes an element

e in the recitations of their bards. The Scandinavian Skalds or bards were , like the Celtic, historians as well as minstrels

ed because it is considered the mother of Icelandic poetry. The Sagas were written in Denmark and the Scandinavian peninsula

ow Audhumbla, by whose milk the giant was nourished. The Frost Giants were the enemies of gods and men. From the ice of the

mir, and out of his body formed the earth on which we live. His bones were changed into mountains, his hair into trees; of h

they resolved to create man. Aske and Embla, the first man and woman, were therefore formed, the man out of an ash, and the

re formed, the man out of an ash, and the woman out of an alder. They were the parents of the whole human race. Ques. What

inavians of the form of the earth? Ans. Their notions on the subject were childish in the extreme. They thought that the as

ea of a divinity superior to Odin, Uncreated and Eternal. Ques. What were the delights of Valhalla, and who were permitted

eated and Eternal. Ques. What were the delights of Valhalla, and who were permitted to enjoy them? Ans. None were admitted

elights of Valhalla, and who were permitted to enjoy them? Ans. None were admitted to Valhalla but heroes who had fallen in

en in battle. Women, children, and all who had died a peaceful death, were excluded as unworthy. The joys of Valhalla consis

When the hour of feasting came, they recovered from their wounds, and were whole as before. Thor. Ques. Who was Thor?

n, the wolf Fenris, the Midgard serpent, and Hela, or Death. The gods were not ignorant that these monsters were growing up,

t, and Hela, or Death. The gods were not ignorant that these monsters were growing up, and would one day bring much evil upo

succeeded in chaining him. He broke the strongest fetters as if they were made of cobwebs. Finally, the mountain spirits fa

s, rocks and animals — that they would do no harm to Baldur. The gods were so well satisfied with this, that they amused the

ld woman, and went to see Frigga. The goddess asked him what the gods were doing at their meetings. The disguised Loki repli

ds were doing at their meetings. The disguised Loki replied that they were throwing darts and stones at Baldur, without bein

out being able to hurt him. He inquired of Frigga, in his turn, if it were really true that she had exacted an oath of all c

aving cut down the mistletoe, he repaired to the place where the gods were assembled, and put the bough among the sticks whi

he gods were assembled, and put the bough among the sticks which they were casting in sport at Baldur. It was thrown with th

, and Baldur fell to the ground pierced through and through. The gods were overwhelmed with grief, and broke forth in the wi

for the hero. Hela would take no ransom, but wished to try if Baldur were really so beloved. “If,” said she, “all things in

nd plants shed crystal drops like rain, and even the rocks and stones were covered with a glittering dew. One old hag only,

ich was built of his own ship, the largest in the world. All the gods were present, and even the Frost and Mountain Giants w

ld. All the gods were present, and even the Frost and Mountain Giants were touched with kindness and came to do him honor. W

so violently that the whole earth shakes. The Elves. Ques. Who were the Elves? Ans. They were beautiful spirits, clo

earth shakes. The Elves. Ques. Who were the Elves? Ans. They were beautiful spirits, clothed in transparent and del

othed in transparent and delicate garments. They loved the light, and were kindly disposed to mankind. The country of the El

and was the domain of Freyr, the god of the sun, in whose light they were always sporting. Ques. Were all the fairies equa

Ans. No; the Night Elves, also called Gnomes, and sometimes Brownies, were at times exceedingly malicious. They were ugly, l

es, and sometimes Brownies, were at times exceedingly malicious. They were ugly, long-nosed dwarfs of a dark brown complexio

us. They were ugly, long-nosed dwarfs of a dark brown complexion, and were never seen except at night, because the sun’s ray

s. The Gnomes dwelt in mountain caverns and the clefts of rocks. They were particularly distinguished for their knowledge of

nguished for their knowledge of the mysterious powers of nature. They were also skillful workers in wood and metal, and were

ers of nature. They were also skillful workers in wood and metal, and were acquainted with the secret stores of gold and sil

friendless in an unexpected manner. The principal works of the Gnomes were Thor’s hammer, and the ship Skidbladnir. This ves

g the northern nations by means of sticks of different lengths. These were shaken up, and from the chance figures they forme

etters naturally took the form of the ancient runes. The magic verses were of various kinds. The noxious, or, as they were c

nes. The magic verses were of various kinds. The noxious, or, as they were called, the bitter runes were recited to bring ev

various kinds. The noxious, or, as they were called, the bitter runes were recited to bring evils on their enemies; the favo

bring evils on their enemies; the favorable averted misfortune; some were medicinal, others employed to win love, etc. In l

edicinal, others employed to win love, etc. In later times, the runes were used for inscriptions, of which more than a thous

efined as that of Scandinavia. Odin and other Scandinavian divinities were worshipped by the tribes who dwelt along the bord

mes of the Greek and Roman divinities whom they resemble. Ques. What were the principal characteristics of Druidism? Ans.

rann, the god of thunder, and many other divinities of inferior rank, were worshipped in Gaul and Germany. Ques. How was th

e priests, the bards, and the Druids, properly so called. Ques. What were the duties of the priests? Ans. They studied the

nly gentle art known to the rude tribes of Gaul and Britain, and they were , perhaps for this reason, the more susceptible to

eyes, on account of the gifts of prophecy and second sight which they were believed to possess in moments of inspiration. Th

elieved to possess in moments of inspiration. The verses of the bards were never committed to writing, and a long and painfu

f the native princes and chieftains whose glory they sung. Ques. Who were the Druids, properly so called? Ans. They were p

they sung. Ques. Who were the Druids, properly so called? Ans. They were priests of the highest order, who remained seclud

ed in caves and grottoes, or in the depths of oak forests, where they were supposed to study the deeper mysteries of nature

n, and to consult more directly the secret will of the divinity. They were also the teachers of youth. The Druids must have

n plants, and rendered efficacious by the magic rites with which they were gathered. The mistletoe, when found growing on th

e no less sacred oak, the Druids assembled; a banquet and a sacrifice were prepared, after which a priest in white vestments

reverently into a white mantle spread beneath. Two milk-white heifers were instantly offered in sacrifice, and the rest of t

ike manner, the samolus, or marsh-wort, possessed no virtue unless it were sought fasting, and gathered with the left hand,

s properties; it was manufactured into beads by the Druids, and these were given as charms to warriors going to battle; such

Ques. Were the Druids acquainted with the art of writing? Ans. They were , at least in Gaul and Ireland. Their alphabet con

ues. Did the Druids exercise any political authority? Ans. Yes; they were the legislators of the people, and had the right

e was no appeal from their sentence, and those who ventured to resist were excommunicated and outlawed. The college of Druid

or Arch-druid, chosen by vote from among their number. The elections were eagerly contested, and were often attended with m

te from among their number. The elections were eagerly contested, and were often attended with much bloodshed. The Arch-drui

h much bloodshed. The Arch-druid held his office for life. Ques. Who were the Druidesses? Ans. They were prophetesses or s

held his office for life. Ques. Who were the Druidesses? Ans. They were prophetesses or sorceresses, most generally wives

he Druids, who exercised an unbounded influence over the people. They were supposed to read the future, to conjure tempests,

ild chants with the voices of wind and sea. Some of these sorceresses were obliged to assist at nocturnal rites, where, with

e Druidesses who resided in an island at the mouth of the Loire. They were obliged once every year, between sunrise and suns

essible rock off the promontory of Plogoff, on the coast of Brittany, were regarded with particular veneration, and constitu

Strabo tells us that when the Cimbri had taken prisoners of war, they were offered in sacrifice by these terrible women. The

ant a part. We only know that at Tara, certain virgins of royal blood were consecrated to Baal and Samhain, (the moon,) and

ire country united to punish the perpetrators of this sacrilege; they were put to death, and a perpetual fine was imposed on

fine was imposed on the province of Leinster. Ques. What sacrifices were offered by the Druids? Ans. In time of peace, fr

? Ans. In time of peace, fruits and cattle; in war, human sacrifices were preferred. Ques. How were the victims chosen? A

ruits and cattle; in war, human sacrifices were preferred. Ques. How were the victims chosen? Ans. They were generally cap

ifices were preferred. Ques. How were the victims chosen? Ans. They were generally captives taken in war, slaves or crimin

itiate the gods, and obtain victory for their people, or because they were weary of life, and desired to hasten the moment o

to hasten the moment of transmigration. These acts of self-immolation were esteemed exceedingly meritorious. Cæsar supposes

the same with Dis or Pluto; but in the mythology of the Gauls, there were no infernal regions, and consequently, there was

. What was the usual mode of sacrifice? Ans. Victims offered to Baal were always burned. On important occasions, a great nu

ed to Baal were always burned. On important occasions, a great number were enclosed in a huge frame of wicker work in which

eat number were enclosed in a huge frame of wicker work in which they were consumed together. In offerings to other gods, di

y were consumed together. In offerings to other gods, different rites were observed. These remarks apply chiefly to Gaul, Ge

remarks apply chiefly to Gaul, Germany and Britain. Human sacrifices were rare in Ireland. Ques. What were the principal f

rmany and Britain. Human sacrifices were rare in Ireland. Ques. What were the principal festivals of the Druids? Ans. The

Beltane; and in Irish, Beal-Tinne, or the Fire of Baal. The solstices were also celebrated as the chief points in the sun’s

, and again lighted, after which all the fires throughout the country were rekindled from this sacred source. This rite was

At length the fire was rekindled; torches lighted at the sacred flame were passed from hand to hand, and the country was soo

called loudly for the punishment of the sacrilegious strangers. They were seized and brought before the assembly, but the r

t least, one feature of the ancient Druid festival. Ques. What rites were observed on the first day of November? Ans. The

n the British islands. It would seem that the spirits of the departed were also propitiated at this season, and many curious

y feast of the moon, the souls of those who had died during the year, were obliged to repair thither for judgment. Connected

ted Druids took refuge in the island of Mona or Anglesea, whence they were driven by the Roman troops with great slaughter.

latter part of the sixth century, when the inhabitants of the island were converted by the preaching of St. Columba, the Ap

a spot rendered memorable by some important event. Similar monuments were common in primitive times, as we learn from Scrip

ed like a table, upon two others which are set upright. Some of these were evidently altars, as the flat stone on the top is

tone on the top is furrowed and slightly inclined to facilitate as it were the flowing of blood. Dolmens are found also in s

of morality, while on the other, their sacrifices and public worship were marked by a spirit of unexampled ferocity. Ques.

o distinct sources. The ancient Toltecs, who preceded them in Mexico, were a comparatively humane and enlightened race; they

her deity? Ans. Yes, they worshipped many subordinate divinities who were supposed to preside over the elements, the change

n Mars, who was, in fact, the patron deity of the nation. His temples were the most stately of all the public edifices, and

f all the public edifices, and his altars in every part of the empire were continually reeking with the blood of human victi

ivinities? Ans. Yes; the images of their penates, or household gods, were to be found in every dwelling. Ques. What did th

h regard to a future life? Ans. Their priests taught that the wicked were sent after death to expiate their sins in a regio

s in a region of eternal darkness. Those who died of certain diseases were entitled, after death, to a state of indolent con

and Romans, was reserved for their warriors and heroes. In this class were included those who were offered in sacrifice. The

for their warriors and heroes. In this class were included those who were offered in sacrifice. These privileged souls pass

the naming of their children? Ans. The lips and bosom of the infant were sprinkled with water. During the ceremony they im

clothed in certain sacred habiliments, and strewed with charms, which were supposed to be necessary as a defence against the

was then burned, and the ashes, carefully collected in a funeral urn, were placed in the house of the deceased. In this mode

f the burial rite; on the other hand, the obsequies of an Aztec noble were always accompanied by the sacrifice of unoffendin

eased. Ques. Did the Aztec priests form a distinct order? Ans. They were altogether distinct from the people, and formed a

d formed a numerous and powerful hierarchy. Their different functions were exactly regulated; those who were best skilled in

ierarchy. Their different functions were exactly regulated; those who were best skilled in music formed the choirs — Others

hoirs — Others arranged the festivals according to the calendar. Some were engaged in the education of youth, and others had

paintings and oral traditions, while the dreadful rites of sacrifice were reserved to the chief dignitaries of the order.

n. These schools, as well as those for boys, directed by the priests, were under the strictest discipline. Ordinary faults w

by the priests, were under the strictest discipline. Ordinary faults were punished with extreme rigor; graver offences, wit

certain quantity of land was annexed to each temple, and the priests were further enriched by first fruits and other offeri

large provision became necessary from the fact that the Aztec priests were allowed to marry. The law prescribed that any sur

worship. Ques. What was the form of the Mexican temples? Ans. They were solid pyramids, constructed of earth, but complet

s, constructed of earth, but completely cased in brick or stone. They were disposed in three or four stories, each smaller t

wers, containing images of the presiding deities. Before these towers were generally placed, besides the dreadful stone of s

rifice, two lofty altars on which burned perpetual fires. So numerous were these sacred fires in the city of Mexico, that th

erous were these sacred fires in the city of Mexico, that the streets were brilliantly lighted even on the darkest night. Th

d. More generally, it was so arranged, that the religious processions were obliged to pass two or three times around the pyr

ac, as that part of Mexico was formerly named. Ques. What sacrifices were offered by the Aztecs? Ans. Their sacrifices pre

we find in everything connected with their religion. — Some festivals were of a light and joyous character, being celebrated

erous gums; while the birds and domestic animals offered in sacrifice were consumed at the banquets with which the festival

the banquets with which the festival concluded. These innocent rites were evidently of Toltec origin; the dreadful practice

of human sacrifice was introduced by the Aztec conquerors, whose wars were often undertaken for no other purpose than to pro

s for their altars. Ques. Were these sacrifices numerous? Ans. They were introduced only about two hundred years before th

oduced only about two hundred years before the Spanish Conquest. They were at first exceptional, but became more frequent as

purpose. One hundred and thirty-six thousand of these ghastly relics were counted in a single edifice. Women were occasiona

usand of these ghastly relics were counted in a single edifice. Women were occasionally offered in sacrifice, but Tlaloc, th

cent victims, decked in the richest attire, and crowned with flowers, were borne to the temple in open litters, their cries

fice of a single victim, with regard to whom many peculiar ceremonies were observed. A year before the sacrifice, a young ma

he Sun — Burial Rites of the Peruvians — Cupay. Ques. What deities were worshipped by the ancient Peruvians? Ans. Like m

ight and life. The Moon was honored as his sister-wife, and the Stars were worshipped as her heavenly train. The planet know

o tradition, there was a time when the ancient races of the continent were plunged in the most complete barbarism: the will

nth degree of south latitude. They bore with them a golden wedge, and were directed to take up their abode wherever the sacr

steries of weaving and spinning. The rude, but simple-hearted natives were not slow to appreciate the benefits conferred by

h these traditions, seven persons took refuge in caves, in which they were preserved from the universal destruction; and fro

n is believed to have existed between the two countries. Ques. Where were the most celebrated temples of the Sun? Ans. The

as in the island of Titicaca, whence the founders of the Inca dynasty were said to have proceeded. Everything belonging to t

ary was held in particular veneration. Even the fields of maize which were attached to the temple were supposed to partake o

eneration. Even the fields of maize which were attached to the temple were supposed to partake of its sanctity; and the year

first rays of the morning Sun fell directly on his golden image, and were reflected from the rich ornaments with which the

re reflected from the rich ornaments with which the walls and ceiling were encrusted. Every part of the temple glowed with t

any-colored arch of resplendent hues. Attached to the temple of Cuzco were the celebrated gardens, sparkling with flowers of

ated gardens, sparkling with flowers of gold and silver. Animals also were represented in precious ore, and the classic fabl

orld, occupies the site of the famous Coricancha. The temples of Peru were many and magnificent; but Cuzco was to the Inca n

de at least one pilgrimage to the holy shrine. Ques. From what class were the Peruvian priests generally chosen? Ans. They

rom what class were the Peruvian priests generally chosen? Ans. They were all, without exception, Inca nobles, and therefor

en from among his brothers or nearest kindred. Ques. What sacrifices were offered to the Sun? Ans. Animals, ripe maize, fl

Animals, ripe maize, flowers and sweet-scented gums. Human sacrifices were rare, and were only offered on great occasions, s

aize, flowers and sweet-scented gums. Human sacrifices were rare, and were only offered on great occasions, such as a corona

then selected as the victim; but the cannibal repasts of the Mexicans were unknown among the more refined Peruvians. Ques.

e Mexicans were unknown among the more refined Peruvians. Ques. What were the principal festivals of the Sun? Ans. The sol

the principal festivals of the Sun? Ans. The solstices and equinoxes were celebrated by four great festivals; but the most

ice. This festival lasted many days. The animals offered in sacrifice were served at the tables of the Inca and of his noble

his nobles; but of the flocks belonging to the temple, a vast number were slaughtered and distributed among the people. Qu

Numa, by means of a concave mirror of polished metal. The sun’s rays were in this manner collected in a focus of sufficient

friction. This fire was watched by the Virgins of the Sun. Ques. Who were these? Ans. They were maidens of noble birth who

watched by the Virgins of the Sun. Ques. Who were these? Ans. They were maidens of noble birth who were dedicated to the

un. Ques. Who were these? Ans. They were maidens of noble birth who were dedicated to the service of the Sun. They were ta

ens of noble birth who were dedicated to the service of the Sun. They were taken from their families at an early age, and pl

nd in every branch of female industry. They spun garments, which they were taught to embroider with exquisite skill. They al

the temples and the garments worn by the Inca and his household. They were completely secluded, even from their own nearest

ven from their own nearest relatives. The wives of the Inca, and they were numerous, were chosen from among the Virgins of t

own nearest relatives. The wives of the Inca, and they were numerous, were chosen from among the Virgins of the Sun. With th

e chosen from among the Virgins of the Sun. With this exception, they were forbidden to marry. The unhappy maiden who ventur

in this life, costly apparel, arms, utensils and sometimes treasures were placed in the tomb of a deceased noble. That he m

ght not lack attendance and society, his favorite wives and domestics were sacrificed on his tomb. The Peruvians believed in

ge certain things connected with the Eleusinian mysteries. The people were about to stone him, when he was saved by the pres

represented men as they ought to be, Euripides described them as they were . Herodotus, who has been called the Father

irgil, Horace, Ovid and other celebrated writers of the Augustan age, were among his most intimate friends. Such was the car

as indolent and luxurious as the most effeminate oriental. His villas were laid out with unexampled magnificence, and his ba

ects, a sort of Cyclopædia, and it is said that if the Latin language were lost, it might be restored from this work alone.

d familiarity of friendly correspondence. It seems probable that they were intended rather for posterity, than for the perso

were intended rather for posterity, than for the persons to whom they were ostensibly addressed. Procopius . One of

s was one of the competitors. The compositions of the great tragedian were deficient in the tenderness and pathos for which

d him to introduce higher themes, we do not know; but when the verses were recited before the assembled court, the praises o

recited before the assembled court, the praises of Castor and Pollux were mingled largely with those of his royal patron. A

ittle while, a slave brought him word that two young men on horseback were at the gate, and desired earnestly to speak with

ans knew nothing of their origin, but had a vague tradition that they were built by giants in a single night. They regarded

know absolutely nothing, except that they preceded the Peruvians, and were farther advanced in the arts of civilized life th

are Idolaters, the images are Idols, and the worship is Idolatry. Men were first taught by God himself, that there is a God.

ndividuals whom God appointed to instruct mankind concerning himself, were the Patriarchs, the Prophets, and lastly our Lord

s Christ. The patriarchs to whom God more especially revealed himself were Adam, Noah and Abraham. Patriarch signifies a fat

ed to him the knowledge of himself and of the uses to which his gifts were to be applied. The first and second chapters of G

ts, at different times taught mankind their duty to God. The prophets were persons instructed by God concerning himself, and

ons instructed by God concerning himself, and concerning events which were to happen after they were foretold. Moses was a p

erning himself, and concerning events which were to happen after they were foretold. Moses was a prophet when he foretold, “

Moses was succeeded by other prophets. Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc. were prophets. The patriarchs, the prophets, and Chris

eep the commandments. Those persons to whom God revealed himself thus were all of one nation; they were the Hebrews, and dwe

ersons to whom God revealed himself thus were all of one nation; they were the Hebrews, and dwelt on the eastern border of t

tly Judea. The Hebrews are styled the chosen people, that means, they were chosen by God to be instructed in a true religion

nd to teach it to the rest of mankind. The other nations of the world were partially taught the character of the Supreme Bei

ble persons to whom God bas revealed himself? At what different times were these revelations made? After the patriarchs, who

s not likely to be lost or altered. When Noah and Abraham lived there were no letters or writings, and all knowledge was pre

s preserved n the world till the time of Moses; then the commandments were engraved on tables of stone, and God’s law could

d for the covetous, and of dishonesty for the thieves, etc. Those who were not taught the true nature of God, worshipped the

ings. The sun, moon, and stars, the sea, the rivers, and the elements were worshipped, instead of him who made them all. Ho

hout some acquaintance with the history of ancient fables. The Greeks were first civilized by colonies of Phœnicians and Egy

Phœnician and Egyptian faith and worship. The pagan deities of Greece were divided into classes: the Celestial, the Terrestr

father of gods and men. Besides Jupiter, five gods and six goddesses were of the higher order of deities, namely, Neptune,

namely, Neptune, Apollo, Mercury, Mars, and Vulcan. The six goddesses were Juno, Minerva, Ceres, Venus, Dian, and Vesta. Bes

Juno, Minerva, Ceres, Venus, Dian, and Vesta. Besides the gods there were demi-gods. These were originally men who had perf

Venus, Dian, and Vesta. Besides the gods there were demi-gods. These were originally men who had performed great actions, a

after their death, men worshipped. Personifications of certain ideas were deified by the ancients; as Courage and Pain, Pru

ication? Saturn. The most ancient divinities of the Greeks were Heaven and Earth; the former was a god called Cœl

d called Cœlus, and the latter a goddess named Terra. Cœlus and Terra were the parents of Titan and Saturn. Titan, the elder

This son was Jupiter. Neptune and Pluto, two other of Saturn’s sons, were saved. When Titan discovered that one of his brot

r upon Saturn; conquered both him and Cybele, and confined them. They were released by their son Jupiter, who deposed Saturn

ssion. During the Saturnalia, business was suspended at Rome, schools were shut up, and unbounded hilarity prevailed. The sl

e, schools were shut up, and unbounded hilarity prevailed. The slaves were released from toil, and permitted to say and do w

what they pleased, even, it is said, to ridicule their masters. Who were the parents of Saturn? Who was Saturn’s brother?

ts of Saturn? Who was Saturn’s brother? What does Saturn signify? Who were Saturn’s sons? Who deposed Saturn? Where did Satu

n her head, and seated in a car drawn by lions. The priests of Cybele were sometimes called Corybantes, they are usually rep

striking themselves. Who was Cybele, and how is she represented? Who were the priests of Cybele? Vesta. Vesta was t

o bore the names of Vestals, or Vestal Virgins. At first, the vestals were only four in number, but were, afterwards, increa

r Vestal Virgins. At first, the vestals were only four in number, but were , afterwards, increased to seven. Roman virgins, f

om the first families at Rome, and destined for the service of Vesta, were chosen between the age of six and ten years. The

ss lasted thirty years, and it was not till after this term that they were free from their priesthood, and at liberty to mar

priesthood, and at liberty to marry. During the first ten years they were instructed in the duties of their profession, the

so important, that when it happened to expire, all public spectacles were forbidden till the crime was punished. This event

ome extinct, and never to associate with any man. Who was Vesta? Who were the vestals, and what was their discipline? Was t

discipline? Was the fire of Vesta’s temple sacred? To what punishment were the vestals exposed? Janus. Janus was a k

m injustice, was hospitably received by Janus. The people of Italy were probably, at that remote period, less instructed

ay of the year, the Consuls entered upon their office, and the people were entertained with spectacles. New enterprises were

ice, and the people were entertained with spectacles. New enterprises were dated from this day, but they commenced after it:

ced after it: for on the day itself, business was suspended, quarrels were forgotten, mutual presents were made, and the tim

elf, business was suspended, quarrels were forgotten, mutual presents were made, and the time was spent in mirth and friendl

d by Christian nations even to the present time. The temples of Janus were shut at Rome during the time of peace; but these

Janus were shut at Rome during the time of peace; but these occasions were rare. First, in the long reign of Numa; secondly,

he partner of his throne? How was Janus regarded by his subjects? Why were the images of Janus sometimes surrounded twelve a

times surrounded twelve altars? How was Janus worshipped at Rome? How were the attributes of Janus expressed by images of hi

e elements, and the dispenser of every blessing to mankind. His names were Optimus Maximus, or the Best and Greatest; Jove,

worship was paid to Jupiter. The animals offered to him in sacrifice, were sheep, goats, and bulls with gilded horns. Flour,

e sheep, goats, and bulls with gilded horns. Flour, salt, and incense were used in these sacrifices. The oak and the olive w

alt, and incense were used in these sacrifices. The oak and the olive were sacred to Jove. Jupiter is represented under the

and beauty. His head wag surrounded with rays and clouds. Beside him were placed two urns, one of good, the other of evil.

related concerning him many scandalous adventures. Jupiter’s enemies were the Titans and the giants: the former were the so

entures. Jupiter’s enemies were the Titans and the giants: the former were the sons of his uncle Titan, who imprisoned Satur

re the sons of his uncle Titan, who imprisoned Saturn; and the latter were sons of Terra or Earth, who attempted to dethrone

racles; that of Dodona, in Epirus, and that of Jupiter-Ammon in Lybia were the chief. What are Jupiter’s attributes? How di

irgil describe Jove? Was the character of Jupiter perfectly holy? Who were Jupiter’s enemies? ——— The ancients supposed tha

e-eyed giants who had forged the thunderbolts of Jupiter. The Cyclops were servants and favourites of Jupiter, so he was ang

where he was drowned. His sisters, the Heliades, mourned for him and were metamorphosed into poplars by Jupiter. This story

in mind by the respiration of vapours from the ground, and her cries were pretended to express the will of the god. The pri

sh promise did Apollo make to Phaeton? What happened to Phaeton? What were Apollo’s achievements? Where was the most famous

to the world of spirits. Mercury is represented as a young man; wings were fastened to his sandals and to his cap, and in hi

the god of thieves, of merchants, and of highways. Statues of Mercury were often placed in roads to point out the way to tra

ted to the care of the Seasons. His cunning and dexterity in stealing were remarkable. He stole the quiver and arrow of Apol

ek Mercury? How was Mercury represented? Where was Mercury born? What were his gifts? Who was the Hermes of Egypt? What inve

d attended by Bellona, his sister, a goddess, fierce as himself. They were represented in a chariot drawn by two wild horses

y were represented in a chariot drawn by two wild horses, whose names were Flight and Terror. Discord, Clamour, Anger, an

the raven, which feeds upon the slain; the cock, for his wakefulness, were all consecrated to a god, who was himself without

ost unjust, most hateful in our eyes! [Translator : Pope] The Romans were a more warlike people than the Greeks; they held

higher reverence than the former people. The priests of Mars at Rome were called Salii, — hey had the care of Ancilia, or s

alii, — hey had the care of Ancilia, or sacred shields. These shields were sacred to Mars, and were held in superstitious re

of Ancilia, or sacred shields. These shields were sacred to Mars, and were held in superstitious reverence by the Romans. In

s was that of the priests, or Salii, at first, though afterwards they were increased to twenty-four. Bellona had a temple at

attendant of Mars. She had several temples in Greece and Rome. Games were instituted in honour of Victory. A figure of Vict

palm, and a globe. Who was Mars? Who attended Mars, and what animals were sacred to him? How was he regarded in heaven and

metals to Prometheus. Perhaps Prometheus first discovered that metals were capable of fusion, and taught the art of manufact

lles and Eneas. The former a Greek, and the latter a Trojan hero, who were engaged in the siege of Troy. Vulcan also fabrica

of pure gold for the celestial deities. At Athens and Rome, festivals were kept to his honour. Upon Mount Etna a temple was

xquisite, as to enable them to discern whether persons who came there were virtuous or vicious, and who fawned upon, or drov

nd the assemblies in which they discussed the most important affairs, were held in the temple of Vulcan. At Memphis, in Egyp

anger, and that it was produced by the bolts of Jupiter. These bolts were supposed to be sharp and barbed points, driven wi

what use is the manufacture of metals? Whom did the ancients suppose were the first workers of metals? Whom say the Hebrew

an? How was Vulcan honoured at Rome? The Cyclops. The Cyclops were the workmen of Vulcan; they were probably very st

me? The Cyclops. The Cyclops were the workmen of Vulcan; they were probably very strong men, employed in the most la

rious services of society. In Peloponnesus some of the first edifices were constructed of vast stones, which still remain. T

ops, the Cyclopean architecture.1 Vulcan had many Cyclops; the chief were Brontes, Steropes, and Pyracmon. The Cyclops were

Cyclops; the chief were Brontes, Steropes, and Pyracmon. The Cyclops were of prodigious stature, and had each but one eye,

ion of the Cyclops being one-eyed arose from the fact, that when they were exposed to the most violent action of the fire wi

d to the most violent action of the fire with which the wrought, they were forced to shield their faces with a piece of stif

rain, three forks of hail conspire, Three armed with wind; and three were barbed with fire The mass they tempered thick wit

th, and Terror, and the lightning’s blaze. Pitt’s Translation. Who were the Cyclops? What mode of life did the Cyclops fo

y appeared, and with her came forth all the train of calamities which were concealed in die box, but Hope remained behind. T

. Force and Strength may signify the power and cruelty of bad men who were enemies of Prometheus, and who might have confine

re Paris on Mount Ida, she offered him a city. The poppy and the lily were sacred to her, and she is sometimes exhibited wit

of her beauty, chose Hebe for his cup-bearer. The gods of the heathen were not represented as pure intelligences, that is, a

ormer their dunk, and the latter their food. These imaginary aliments were more delicious than any known to mankind. Hebe pr

m everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. “When there were no depths I was brought forth; when there were no

earth was. “When there were no depths I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mou

en there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled; before the hills was I brought forth: wh

it upon her shield; and so frightful was it, that those who beheld it were turned to stone. With the bright wreath of serpe

sacrifices. Horse races, wrestling matches, and musical performances were exhibited for the public entertainment at this fe

blic entertainment at this festival. The songs sung at the Panathenæa were commonly the eulogium of some citizen, who had pe

a distinguished service to the state. Thus the achievements of heroes were kept in the memory of the Athenian people, and se

ed of different classes of the citizens, and those who appeared in it were selected for their fine appearance. First advance

or their fine appearance. First advanced old men, still vigorous, who were of a majestic and venerable form — these bore in

m — these bore in their hands branches of the olive tree. The old men were followed by those of middle age, clothed in polis

er them proceeded youths under twenty years of age. The young persons were of both sexes — the boys clad in plain garments,

ying; baskets of cakes and flowers as offerings to the goddess. These were of honourable families, and were attended by the

s as offerings to the goddess. These were of honourable families, and were attended by the daughters of foreigners settled a

water and honey for the libations. Foreigners, or sojourners as they were called, who resided at Athens, held a rank inferi

e work of Phidias, produced by the request of Pericles. The Athenians were offended at Phidias, because it was discovered th

adium to Italy? What was the Parthenon? What was the Panathenæa? What were the songs sung at the Panathenæa? What procession

usbandmen in the fields, before they began to reap. Sacrifices to her were also offered in the spring, and oblations of wine

Attica, and particularly honoured by the Athenians. These solemnities were called the Eleusinian Mysteries. The word mysteri

articular of secrecy at least. Initiated persons — that is, those who were admitted to be present at the ceremonies at Eleus

, those who were admitted to be present at the ceremonies at Eleusis, were strictly forbidden to divulge what they saw there

ictly forbidden to divulge what they saw there. Persons of both sexes were admitted by the high priest, called the Hierophan

of Eleusis. It was pretended that those \w\\o enjoyed this privilege were under the immediate protection of the goddess, an

s life, but after death. Those who broke the vow to conceal what they were instructed in, in these mysteries, were accounted

the vow to conceal what they were instructed in, in these mysteries, were accounted execrable. Execration was a sentence w

ries really signified is unknown. The garments worn at the initiation were accounted holy, and preserved as charms, that is,

es represented? In what verses is her worship described? What honours were offered to Ceres at Eleusis? What are Mysteries?

hat honours were offered to Ceres at Eleusis? What are Mysteries? How were persons admitted to the mysteries of Eleusis rega

e mysteries of Eleusis regarded? What was execration? What spectacles were exhibited at Eleusis? What superstition is relate

et upon the land, flowers sprung up beneath them. The rosy Hours, who were intrusted with her education, received her, and c

graceful and beautiful than she was without it. The temples of Venus were numerous in the heathen world; those of Paphos, C

e numerous in the heathen world; those of Paphos, Cythera, and Idalia were the most celebrated. In some places incense only

most graceful of birds, and the sweetest and most odorous of plants, were sacred to Venus. In ancient times the Greeks rega

rise to the light and adorn the earth in summer. The feasts of Adonis were celebrated in Greece and Syria. They commenced wi

verses are Venus and Cupid described? What did Venus personify? What were the appellations of Venus? In what verses is her

e generous sympathies of our nature. The Graces. The Graces were three beautiful females, daughters of Venus, and

females, daughters of Venus, and often attendant upon her. The Graces were supposed to be beautiful and amiable, and to repr

delicate, elegant, and accomplished persons. The names of the Graces were Aglaia, Thalia, and Euphrosyne; they are usually

th flowers on their heads. The Graces, properly Charities or Virtues, were represented hand in hand, to show that virtues, t

each other, and that they are not found single but united. The Graces were beautiful to signify that kind affections and goo

that kind affections and good actions are pleasing and winning. They were exhibited unadorned and unclothed, because gentle

o was Cupid? What is signified by the story of Cupid and Psyche? What were the Graces, and what were their attributes? D

fied by the story of Cupid and Psyche? What were the Graces, and what were their attributes? Diana. See plate, page

from the Egean sea, and gave it to Latona. In Delos, Apollo and Diana were born. The Greeks held Delos in reverence as the b

rbarous rites, offering to her human sacrifices. Who was Diana? What were Diana’s several characters? What were Diana’s off

acrifices. Who was Diana? What were Diana’s several characters? What were Diana’s offices? How is Diana represented? Where

Ephesus? What was the admonition of the shrine-maker at Ephesus? How were the Ephesians appeased? What has taken place in t

of the favour of the goddess, and of the esteem of mankind. The Muses were daughters of Jupiter and Mnemosyne, or memory; mi

race, the country Aonia, and Mount Helicon in Bœotia. Their fountains were Hippocrene, and Castalia at the foot of Parnassus

hile Pegasus, with extended wings, springs forward into the air. Who were the Muses? How were they represented? From what w

xtended wings, springs forward into the air. Who were the Muses? How were they represented? From what were their names deri

to the air. Who were the Muses? How were they represented? From what were their names derived? What was the office of Clio;

f Terpsichore; of Erato; of Polyhymnia; of Urania; of Calliope? Where were the favourite haunts of the Muses? Divinities

enty-two daughters, called the Oceanides, and Nereus had fifty, these were the Nereides. There were a great multitude of sea

d the Oceanides, and Nereus had fifty, these were the Nereides. There were a great multitude of sea-nymphs besides the Ocean

express waves, tempests, calms, rocks, ports, etc. The Nereides, who were the attendants on Neptune were esteemed very hand

, rocks, ports, etc. The Nereides, who were the attendants on Neptune were esteemed very handsome. In ancient monuments the

s, or calm the wildest fury of the tempest. The Isthmean games, which were celebrated at Corinth in Greece, were in honour o

pest. The Isthmean games, which were celebrated at Corinth in Greece, were in honour of Neptune That city being the centre o

the other states. Who was Neptune, and how was he represented? What were Neptune’s attributes? Why was Neptune worshipped

only eye. Phorcus, father of the Gorgons and of Proteus, and Triton, were sons of Neptune. ——— The Tritons were imaginary

ns and of Proteus, and Triton, were sons of Neptune. ——— The Tritons were imaginary sea animals, the upper part of whose bo

ir war with the gods, by the sound of his instrument. ——— The Sirens were sea nymphs of rare beauty, who dwelt upon the coa

ymphs of rare beauty, who dwelt upon the coast of Sicily; their names were Parthenope, Ligeia, and Leucosia. In the neighbou

In the neighbourhood of the Sirens lived the enchantress Circe. They were all admirable singers, and lured mariners, whom t

rcules. It was said that the rock Scylla and the whirlpool Charybdis, were so near to each other in the strait of Messina, t

dis, signifying, one of two dangers is inevitable. ——— The Halcyones were sea-birds, who were supposed to build their nests

of two dangers is inevitable. ——— The Halcyones were sea-birds, who were supposed to build their nests upon the waves, and

es its appearance immediately upon the abatement of storms; thus they were ignorantly presumed to be the cause of allaying t

Harpies not only injured but defiled whatever they lighted upon. They were represented as rapacious and cruel, and destroyin

oying for the mere pleasure of destruction. These subordinate deities were not all which mythology has recorded. There were

subordinate deities were not all which mythology has recorded. There were various tribes of nymphs: those who presided over

various tribes of nymphs: those who presided over rivers and waters, were named Naiades; those who resided in marshes, Lymn

med Naiades; those who resided in marshes, Lymniades. The wood nymphs were called Dryades and Hamadryades. The nymphs of the

phs of the mountains, Oreades. Milk, honey, oil, and sometimes goats, were sacrificed to their honour. Who was Polyphemus?

imes goats, were sacrificed to their honour. Who was Polyphemus? Who were the Tritons? Who were the Sirens? How does Milton

ficed to their honour. Who was Polyphemus? Who were the Tritons? Who were the Sirens? How does Milton describe the music of

from the fable of Scylla and Charybdis, and what is its meaning? What were the Halcyones? What is the truth concerning the H

her inferior deities who presided over different parts of nature? Who were the Harpies, and what was their character? Who pr

not a disturber of nations. The fir, the ivy, the fig, and the vine, were sacred to Bacchus. The goat was slain in his sacr

, because that animal is injurious to vines. The festivals of Bacchus were celebrated in the woods. Women were his principal

o vines. The festivals of Bacchus were celebrated in the woods. Women were his principal worshippers His priestesses were ca

ed in the woods. Women were his principal worshippers His priestesses were called Bacchæ, Bacchantes, and Menades, the Bacch

heir shoulders young kids for the sacrifice. The feasts of Bacchus were sometimes noisy, and those who attended them were

e feasts of Bacchus were sometimes noisy, and those who attended them were often intoxicated. These feasts were called Bacha

isy, and those who attended them were often intoxicated. These feasts were called Bachanalia, Revels, and Orgies. Riotous me

nqueror? What do the conquests of Bacchus exhibit? Where, and by whom were the feasts of Bacchus celebrated? What was the ch

s of shepherds and protectress of flocks. Her feasts, called Parilia, were celebrated in the month of April, on which occasi

this feast they celebrated the founding of Rome. Other rural deities were Anna-Perenna, nearly the same as Pales; Bubona, g

, and Collina of hills: while Jugatinus presided over hillocks. These were all invented by the Romans, and are not to be met

e not to be met with among the Grecian deities. The Satyrs, and Fauns were rural divinities, supposed to inhabit forests and

ere rural divinities, supposed to inhabit forests and mountains. They were represented as half men and half goats. Terminus

presented under the form of an immovable rock. Milk, cakes, and fruit were offered to him, and his image was crowned with fl

iberty at his own will, or at the command of his father. His children were Boreas, the north wind; Auster, the south; Eurus,

winds, he learnt to distinguish those which blew most violently, and were of longest duration. The descendants of Æolus sen

. Who was Flora? Who was Pomona? Who was Priapus? Who was Pales? Who were other rural deities? Who were the Fauns and Satyr

na? Who was Priapus? Who was Pales? Who were other rural deities? Who were the Fauns and Satyrs? Who was Terminus? Who were

r rural deities? Who were the Fauns and Satyrs? Who was Terminus? Who were ÆoIus and his children? What fact in history is c

secrated to him being supposed to be the same where Romulus and Remus were suckled by a wolf, in Latin lupus. The priests of

were suckled by a wolf, in Latin lupus. The priests of Pan, at Rome, were called Luperci. Pan was regarded as the inspirer

into a pine tree, which was afterwards sacred to Pan. Milk and honey were offered to this deity. Who was Pan? Was Pan rega

omestic Divinities. Lares and Penates. The Lares and Penates were Roman gods, who presided over empires, cities, hi

s, cities, highways, houses, and individuals. Among these divinities, were ranked the souls of them who had faithfully serve

among them the spirits of their departed friends and relations. They were esteemed as the guardians of houses; were worship

friends and relations. They were esteemed as the guardians of houses; were worshipped by the Romans under the figure of smal

ped by the Romans under the figure of small images of human form, and were kept in the most retired part of the edifices. La

e most retired part of the edifices. Lamps, the symbols of vigilance, were consecrated to them, and that faithful domestic a

public feasts of these Lares and Penates, small waxen images of them were suspended in the streets. The Lares and Penates w

n images of them were suspended in the streets. The Lares and Penates were represented as young boys, covered with dog-skins

; therefore he was a proper companion of the domestic gods. The Lares were placed on a hearth in the hall; and on festivals

The Lares were placed on a hearth in the hall; and on festivals they were crowned with garlands, and sacrifices were offere

all; and on festivals they were crowned with garlands, and sacrifices were offered to them. The other household gods, the Pe

crifices were offered to them. The other household gods, the Penates, were worshipped only in an interior apartment called t

worshipped only in an interior apartment called the Penetralia. They were held so sacred by the Romans, that the expression

pelled from his home, his country, and from all that he loved. Genii were invisible spirits, regarded as the intimate compa

uous sentiments, and instructed him in what is excellent action. They were represented as young men, holding, in one hand, a

a drinking vessel, and in the other, a horn of plenty. Sometimes they were depicted under the form of serpents. The Genii pr

ocal genius — one of the place. Cities, groves, fountains, and hills, were provided with these guardians. It was the custom

irst inhabiting the earth; the second, the air; the third, fire. Who were the Lares and Penates? How were the Lares represe

econd, the air; the third, fire. Who were the Lares and Penates? How were the Lares represented? How were the Penates worsh

Who were the Lares and Penates? How were the Lares represented? How were the Penates worshipped? Who were the Genii? Did t

How were the Lares represented? How were the Penates worshipped? Who were the Genii? Did the Genii preside over places as w

the Genii? Did the Genii preside over places as well as persons? How were the Genii worshipped, and what was the opinion of

ower of rendering him invisible. The victims offered to him generally were black sheep. The wife of Pluto was Proserpine;

mmediately upon death, according to the notions of the Greeks spirits were conveyed by Mercury to the care of Charon, who tr

y. They then proceeded to the tribunal of the judges of the dead, and were sentenced according to their past conduct, either

y without being admitted to the joy’s of heaven. On this account they were anxious to pay respect to their departed friends.

wood, upon which the body was laid and consumed to ashes. These ashes were committed to an urn, and deposited with the remai

a multitude of frightful forms, which produce misery and death. These were Diseases, Old Age, Terror, Hunger, Discord, and t

dead. Tartarus was an immense and gloomy prison, to which the wicked were doomed. It was surrounded by triple walls of soli

er distant, was the stagnant marsh of Cocytus. In this forlorn region were the river Styx, whose waters were of inky blackne

of Cocytus. In this forlorn region were the river Styx, whose waters were of inky blackness, and Lethe, the stream of obliv

e forget all that was past. It was believed by many that the departed were liberated from a state of punishment after a thou

housand years, that they drank of Lethe, forgot their sufferings, and were removed by the gods to some happy state of existe

arse, rough, mingled din, that thunders round. Pitt’s Virgil. What were the infernal regions? What did the ancients belie

e respecting funeral honours? Who stood at the entrance of hell? What were Tartarus and the rivers of hell? Did the ancients

lsehood could be heard, and no misrepresentations deceive. The judges were reputed to have been men — kings, who ruled upon

reece, and continued in operation for centuries after his death. Who were the judges of the dead? What is the probable hist

What is the probable history of Minos? The Furies. The Furies were supposed to be ministers of the vengeance of the

loyed in punishing the wicked upon earth, and after death. The Furies were women, commonly represented with torches in their

, and also carrying whips of scorpions. Tisiphone, Megæra, and Alecto were the names of these avengers: they were daughters

Tisiphone, Megæra, and Alecto were the names of these avengers: they were daughters of Acheron and Night; their names signi

us better. When the Furies punished men with obvious compassion, they were called Eumenides, or the Mild. In this case they

ompassion, they were called Eumenides, or the Mild. In this case they were supposed to be appeased by Minerva, as it would b

arded virtue, while she punished vice with unrelenting severity. Who were the Furies? What were the names of the Furies? Ha

e punished vice with unrelenting severity. Who were the Furies? What were the names of the Furies? Had the Greeks any notio

ions of God’s government like those expressed in the Scriptures? What were the Furies sometimes called? Who was Nemesis?

tes, or Destinies, sometimes called the Parcæ, and the Fatal Sisters, were , like the Furies, three in number, Clotho, Laches

like the Furies, three in number, Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos. They were supposed to preside over the life of man, from hi

aff; Lachesis turned the spin die; Atropos cut the thread. Happy days were spun out of gold and silver, while the thread of

nd silver, while the thread of sorrow was of black worsted. The Fates were represented as three women bending under the weig

fe. ——— Besides those which have been enumerated as infernal deities, were Nox or Night, Death, and ”Death’s half-brother, S

eshless arms supporting a scythe. To these terrible deities no altars were ever raised. Trenches were cut in the earth, into

cythe. To these terrible deities no altars were ever raised. Trenches were cut in the earth, into which was poured the blood

sing them towards heaven. Being regarded as implacable, these deities were objects of great terror. No hymns were composed t

d as implacable, these deities were objects of great terror. No hymns were composed to their honour, and no temples were ded

great terror. No hymns were composed to their honour, and no temples were dedicated to them. Who were the Fates? Who was N

composed to their honour, and no temples were dedicated to them. Who were the Fates? Who was Nox? Who was Mors? What was th

the most memorable of the criminals punished in the infernal regions, were the Titans. They were represented as being precip

the criminals punished in the infernal regions, were the Titans. They were represented as being precipitated into Tartarus f

into Tartarus for having made war against Jupiter and the gods; they were Atlas, Briareus, Gyges, Iapetus, Hyperion, and Oc

vered before him, which, whenever he extended his hand to seize them, were snatched by the winds into clouds and obscurity”

n high, and whirl it to the skies. The Danaides. The Danaides were the fifty daughters of an Egyptian prince. Danaus

one, obeyed this inhuman order, and as a punishment for their crime, were sentenced to the continued toil of filling with w

ontinued toil of filling with water vessels which had no bottom. Who were the more remarkable criminals punished in the inf

ho was Phlegyas? Who was Tityus? Who was Ixion? Who was Tantalus? Who were the Danaides? Cerberus. Cerberus was a d

soul, and in a future state of rewards and punishments, these truths were not established till Christ came into the world.

The heathen heaven was called the Elysian Fields. The Elysian Fields were the final abode of virtuous men and women. Patri

s and odorous flowers constantly regaled the happy inhabitants. These were gratified by the society of each other, and by th

immortality of the soul? What was the heathen heaven called, and who were admitted to it? How was Elysium represented? ———

, Providence, Opportunity, Fear, Flight, Paleness, Discord; all these were personified, and honoured under their respective

pective emblems, or appropriate representations. ——— Comus and Momus were social divinities. The English poet Milton has ma

f a god. Who was the god of riches? How was Fortune represented? Who were Comus and Momus? What really changes the nature o

shakes over the eyelids of those whom he would put to sleep. Dreams were the children of Somnus. The poets imagined that d

. Dreams were the children of Somnus. The poets imagined that dreams were good or evil, true or deceitful. True dreams were

magined that dreams were good or evil, true or deceitful. True dreams were supposed to pass from the cave of Somnus through

lse dreams are represented as hunting the couch of the slumberer, and were known by bat’s wings, of a black colour. Who was

were known by bat’s wings, of a black colour. Who was Morpheus? What were dreams supposed to be? Themis and Nemesis.

y bears a balance in one hand, and a sword in the other, and her eyes were covered with a bandage. These emblems express the

ress? When did Justice descend from heaven? Who was Nemesis, and what were her attributes? Fame. Fame is the report

represented? How did the ancients represent Fortune? Under what forms were Envy and Discord personified? By what nations, an

men who had rendered eminent services to society. In what manner they were led to this worship is told in the following arti

btain golden apples from the garden of the Hesperides. The Hesperides were nymphs intrusted by Jupiter with the care of some

nymphs intrusted by Jupiter with the care of some golden apples which were guarded by a dragon. Hercules repaired to Atlas,

nication between the Mediterranean and Atlantic. The disunited coasts were called the Pillars of Hercules, and were separate

lantic. The disunited coasts were called the Pillars of Hercules, and were separated by a space of eighteen miles. The promo

was taking the girdle of Hyppolite, queen of the Amazons. The Amazons were reputed to be a nation of masculine females, who

es this signify? What did the ancients say of the Mediterranean? What were the disunited rocks called? Who was Antæus? Was H

f their class, was one of a fabulous race, the Centaurs. The Centaurs were represented to have the head and body of a man, t

m a misconception of this sort, arose the fable of the Centaurs. How were the Centaurs represented? What is the origin of t

king of Thebes, had a son and daughter, named Phryxus and Helle, who were persecuted by Ino, one of their father’s wives. P

otection of Etes, King of Colchis The poets relate, that just as they were about to be offered, a winged ram, with a golden

rded the fleece; to pluck out his teeth, and sew the plain; armed men were to spring from these teeth, and Jason was to kill

preceptor? What induced Jason to undertake the voyage to Colchis? Who were Phryxus and Helle? To whom did Phryxus offer the

on the fleece? Who assisted Jason in procuring the golden fleece? How were the Argonauts received on their return to Thessal

hra bred up her son in the court of her father. The deeds of Hercules were reported to Trœzene, and were related to Theseus.

rt of her father. The deeds of Hercules were reported to Trœzene, and were related to Theseus. When Theseus heard of the ach

ty, had invented a bed into which he forced his victims; and, if they were too tall for its length he would cut off their li

r its length he would cut off their limbs to fit the bed; or, if they were too short, by dreadful tortures, he stretched the

ld him. Ægeus was delighted with his new-found son, and the Athenians were rejoiced to find that the brave stranger was to b

ave stranger was to be their future monarch. The Pallantidæ, however, were disappointed and enraged, and did not give up the

a satisfaction, a certain number of Athenian youths and maidens, who were to be sent periodically to Minos, at Crete. Some

periodically to Minos, at Crete. Some writers say these young persons were destined to become slaves; and others, that they

e young persons were destined to become slaves; and others, that they were to be eaten up by a frightful monster called the

ry persons. We know better at the present time. The young persons who were to be sent to Crete were chosen by lot out of a l

r at the present time. The young persons who were to be sent to Crete were chosen by lot out of a large number, and they wer

o be sent to Crete were chosen by lot out of a large number, and they were doomed to slavery or death. On the day when the c

he day when the choice was made, all Athens was in tears. The parents were distracted to lose their children, and the childr

The parents were distracted to lose their children, and the children were afflicted beyond measure to be torn from their af

ry from this odious tribute, and comforted the distressed parents who were about to give up their children, by offering to g

ith the Athenian youths to Crete, and when he got there, learned they were to be devoured by a monster which was half a man

lized people? How did the Athenians regard the tribute of Minos? What were the adventures of Theseus in Crete? How did These

rates among themselves. Until the time of Theseus, these petty states were always at war with each other. When Theseus becam

ceived that his subjects could not improve nor be happy, because they were always injuring each other, and always in fear. N

ff injuring one another, they would be happy and grow rich. Then they were poor and in want, because they did very little wo

mes call together assemblies of the people — that is, all the men who were respectable should come into one place, and delib

vent bad men from doing wrong to others, by punishing the persons who were guilty; and the courts should be held in Athens;

in Attica, that they might live in safety and quiet. All these people were grateful to Theseus, for introducing this excelle

us enterprises; in killing robbers and wild beasts; and as then there were no books to read, he felt the want of something m

s in search of new adventures, and what was his conduct to Helen? How were Theseus and his companion received by Aidoneus? H

œa. When Œdipus heard this, he begged his supposed mother to tell who were his real parents: Peribœa did not herself know, b

sed; the two parties began to fight, and soon Laius and his attendant were killed. In that rude age it does not appear that

eyes. Œdipus had four children: two sons and two daughters: the sons were Eteocles and Polynices, and the daughters, Antigo

and carried on a second war. The Argives, or chiefs from Peloponnesus were called the Epigoni, and they were finally defeate

rgives, or chiefs from Peloponnesus were called the Epigoni, and they were finally defeated. Did the sons of Œdipus peaceab

lyre when his murderers precipitated him into the sea, and so charmed were the dolphins that they gathered round the ship to

n? Castor and Pollux. See plate, page 149. Castor and Pollux were twin brothers of Helen and Clytemnestra. When Hel

ore, Silent they slept, and heard of wars no more. Castor and Pollux were among the Argonauts, and they recovered Helen fro

were among the Argonauts, and they recovered Helen from Theseus. They were probably roving adventurers, who did as much wron

adventurers, had two daughters, Phœbe and Talaria; these young women were to be married to two friends, Lynceus and Has, an

to be married to two friends, Lynceus and Has, and Castor and Pollux were invited to attend their wedding. As soon as the b

lled Pollux. Castor, being a son of Jupiter, for the children of Leda were all called Jupiter s, was immortal, but Castor be

r for six months, the mythology does not determine. Castor and Pollux were worshipped by the Greeks and Romans. Among the Ro

made their appearance in their armies, mounted on white steeds. They were generally represented on white horses, armed with

never appears with the other, but when one rises the other sets. Who were the brothers of Helen? Were Castor and Pollux goo

others of Helen? Were Castor and Pollux good men? Of what violent act were Castor and Pollux guilty? Who worshipped Castor a

, Dædalus, with his son Icarus, fled from Athens to Crete, where they were welcomed by Minos. Dædalus constructed the Labyri

alus are supposed to have signified ships. Who was Dædalus, and what were his inventions? Why did Dædalus quit Athens, who

m, and how did he escape from Crete? The Lapithæ. The Centaurs were a people of Thessaly, who first tamed and used th

The battle of the Centaurs and of the Lapithæ was famous. The Lapithæ were some chiefs, Perithous, and others, descended fro

apithus. When Perithous was to be married to Hippodamia, the Centaurs were invited to the marriage; but they became intoxica

e invited to the marriage; but they became intoxicated with wine, and were rude to some of the females present, and the Lapi

aid that three several kings of this city gave names to it: the kings were Dardanus, Tros, and Illus, and hence the city is

ad. The ancients declared that Neptune built Troy, and that its walls were raised by the music of Apollo. This can only mean

according to the story, fifty children; the most remarkable of these were Hector, Paris, and Cassandra. It was foretold to

and certain goddesses attended the wedding. Venus, Minerva, and Juno were there, and Discord came also among them: that is,

demanded it of the gods. To settle the question, the three disputants were referred to Paris. The goddesses then repaired to

imate, engaged in the enterprise. Where was ancient Troy, and whence were its names derived? What is the fabulous origin of

s the fabulous origin of Troy? Who was the last king of Troy, and who were the most memorable of his children? Where was the

e most valiant of the Trojans, and particularly of the sons of Priam, were slain; indeed, so great was the slaughter, that t

esented as filled with dead bodies, and suits of armour. These rivers were so shallow as hardly to deserve the name, and are

forced open the gates of the city, and admitted the Greek troops, who were concealed without; and thus Troy was taken, after

a sacrificed? How do mythologists explain the story of Iphigenia? How were the Greeks encountered at Troy? How many years wa

of Philoctetes from Lemnos? Agamemnon. Agamemnon and Menelaus were brothers. Agamemnon was King of Argos and Mycenæ;

a, the sister of Helen, Queen of Sparta. These princes in their youth were driven away from Argos, by their uncle, Thyestes,

th, and while he was unarmed, the queen and Egisthus killed him. Who were Agamemnon and Menelaus, and what happened to both

es Iphigenia, Agamemnon had two children, a son and a daughter; these were Electra and Orestes. Electra is described by the

of the barbarian 7 king. When the two friends arrived at Tauros, they were carried before Thoas the king, and he commanded t

soon as Iphigenia learned that the victims she was appointed to offer were Greeks, she thought of her far off country, and l

ictim. In the midst of this generous strife, the letters of Iphigenia were produced. One was addressed to Orestes, Prince of

will of the gods. The three friends in due time arrived at Argos, and were all kindly welcomed by Electra. Pylades married t

ana, and lived happily with her affectionate brother and sister. Who were the children of Agamemnon, and what was the chara

tes and Pylades end happily? Menelaus. Agamemnon and Menelaus were called the Atridæ, or sons of Atreus. When Troy w

uxury and enjoyment. Menelaus relates to Telemachus, that his vessels were tossed about the Egean sea for eight long years,

the coast of Cyprus, and then along the shores of Phœnicia, till they were driven to the borders of Egypt and Lybia. Menelau

asted vigour and exhausted stores. But one day while some of his men were gone to the shore for provisions, and others were

ile some of his men were gone to the shore for provisions, and others were engaged in fishing, one of the sea nymphs, Eidoth

the surges flew Till Grecian cliffs appeared, a blissful view. Who were the Atridæ, and in what book is their history rel

o appeared to Menelaus near the coast of Egypt, and what instructions were given him? How did Menelaus deceive Proteus? What

but fair winds to carry him to Ithaca. But the companions of Ulysses were curious to know what the bags contained; so they

he companions of Ulysses seized upon, and devoured, some cattle which were designed for victims to Apollo; this gave such of

Ulysses soon made his forlorn state known to these young women. They were moved with compassion for him; provided him with

living in a sumptuous palace, surrounded with beautiful gardens. They were persons of amiable manners, and generous disposit

ing that he still lived, denied them all. The suitors, as the princes were called, took up their abode in the palace of Ulys

ppear in Ithaca, and discover himself to his family, than the suitors were properly punished for their audacity and violence

? How did Ulysses try to escape from going to the siege of Troy? What were the adventures of Ulysses on his return to Ithaca

haca? What accident was caused to Ulysses by the gift of Æolus? Where were the companions of Ulysses metamorphosed? After Ul

f hostilities, that Priam might bury his son, and the funeral honours were paid according to the customs of the country. Whe

d the tradition of certain monuments of art, now perished. The latter were the Seven Wonders of the world. The common accoun

hose persons, called by way of eminence the Seven Wise Men of Greece, were Thales of Miletus, Solon of Athens, Chilo of Lace

ontemporary of Thales. During the life of Solon, the people of Athens were agitated by perpetual discords in respect to magi

ng as the Athenians remained a free people. Many of the laws of Solon were afterwards adopted by the Romans. Solon died at t

is people, or for his virtuous example. Periander died 588 B. C. Who were the seven wise men of Greece? To what country did

n the sciences? What school of philosophy was founded by Thales? What were the opinions of Thales in religion and morals ? W

e opinions of Thales in religion and morals ? Who was Solon, and what were the institutions of Draco? Were the institutions

he Hindus believe that the elements which form the material universe, were immersed in water before they were brought by Bra

which form the material universe, were immersed in water before they were brought by Brahma to their present forms and orde

e sun, now exist in India. One of these is thus described: “The walls were of red marble, interspersed with streaks of gold.

aces, or battle-axes. In ancient times, not only sacrifices of beasts were common amongst the Hindus, but even of human bein

ce of the country, was 750,000 l.; and 8000 lbs. weight of provisions were daily prepared for the use of the priests and the

heir families, composing a multitude of not less than 40,000 persons, were maintained by the liberality of the pilgrims freq

ents one race of men from growing wiser and better than their fathers were — prevents any particular individual from endeavo

hich countries, comprehended under one name, ancient Scandinavia, and were inhabited by people called the Scandinavian natio

he world by a general conflagration. The chief deities of Scandinavia were Odin, Frea, and Thor; besides these were a multit

chief deities of Scandinavia were Odin, Frea, and Thor; besides these were a multitude of inferior deities, and the Scandina

cording to Scandinavian mythology giants existed before the gods; who were supposed to be born, to reign, and to die, like e

m equally as the god of war, and the giver of all good gifts. Temples were erected for the worship of Odin, and sacrifices w

d gifts. Temples were erected for the worship of Odin, and sacrifices were offered to him. The fourth day of the week was co

ined in the Voluspa? What is the Edda, and what does it describe? Who were the chief deities of Scandinavia? What was the ab

oint the lightning; to direct the meteors, winds, and storms. Prayers were addressed to him for favourable winds, refreshing

ay or Thursday. The principal of the inferior deities of Scandinavia, were Niorder, etc. Niorder, who presided over the sea

out of every twelve days in the hilly regions, while the other three were spent on the shores of the ocean. Niorder is supp

s. Into his palace no impure person could enter; and upon its columns were engraven those Runic rhymes which were imagined t

ld enter; and upon its columns were engraven those Runic rhymes which were imagined to have power to revive the dead. He was

nger of broken faith. Who was Frea, and how was she worshipped? What were Thor’s attributes and worship? Who was Niorder? W

ys of destiny. She knew what chanced ere time began; Ere worlds there were , or gods, or man; No mortal tongue has ever said,

their destruction; and the equally formidable serpent. The Valkyries were maids of the god of war; the goddesses of slaught

he goddesses of slaughter. It was their province to select those that were to fall in battle; to bear the invitation of Odin

s a dog like Cerberus? What terrible goddess resided in Niflheim? Who were the Valkyries? What verses describe the Valkyries

Gauls, and Britons. These nations worshipped idols, and their priests were the Druids. The Druids were held in such venerati

tions worshipped idols, and their priests were the Druids. The Druids were held in such veneration that the people under the

or any costly temples. They composed poems which they sung, and which were taught orally. They sometimes performed their rel

which grows upon the oak, was used m their worship. The sacred groves were surrounded by a ditch or mound. In their centre w

. Close to that was the Cromlech or stone of sacrifice. Human victims were frequently offered by those who laboured under di

ctims were frequently offered by those who laboured under disease, or were about to go to battle. Upon important public occa

em with human beings, and consumed them, together, by fire. Criminals were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the gods;

were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the gods; but when these were wanting, innocent persons were frequently immolat

acceptable to the gods; but when these were wanting, innocent persons were frequently immolated. When the Romans possesse

, they abolished the Druidical priesthood. The poor conquered Britons were excessively grieved at this: but if the Romans di

this: but if the Romans did not destroy the lives or the Druids, they were right to abolish a worship which permitted human

ddess of the Goths. The northern nations of Europe, in ancient times, were so warlike, that they esteemed the attribute of f

f violence and depredation. They believed that those who fell in war, were conveyed, after death, to Heaven, and quaffed nec

also believed that all those who died at home of disease, or old age, were conveyed to the abode of Hela, where they pined i

sickness, and the covering was Blikande, malediction or cursing. Who were the Celtic nations? Had the Druids letters, and w

rsing. Who were the Celtic nations? Had the Druids letters, and what were some of their peculiarities? What were their temp

d the Druids letters, and what were some of their peculiarities? What were their temples and sacrifices? Who abolished the D

ring nations, in honour of whom, human victims, principally children, were immolated. Adonis or Thammuz was worshipped throu

rte, queen of heaven, the Moon, distinguished by her silver crescent, were likewise objects of worship amongst those nations

an engagement between the Philistines and the Israelites, the latter were defeated, and the Philistines seized upon and car

fered to remain; again it fell and was dashed in pieces. So terrified were the Philistines at this, that their priests dared

they immediately restored the ark to the Israelitish territory. Who were the Syrian nations, and who imitated their idolat

bules and lofty porticoes. The walls shone with gold and silver: they were adorned with amber, and sparkled with the gems of

idolatries. The inhabitants of the Thebais, a region in Upper Egypt, were said to have worshipped only the immortal, uncrea

s, wolf, and other animals, and even some inanimate substances, which were first used as hieroglyphics, finally came to be o

human soul to be immortal. While the bodies of their deified mortals were preserved in their sepulchres, their souls were i

their deified mortals were preserved in their sepulchres, their souls were imagined to be transferred to, and to shine forth

e forth in, different stars of heaven. The principal Egyptian deities were Osiris, Isis, Horus, Typlion, Serapis, Anubis, Ha

s, was held in great veneration in Egypt. Three cities in the Thebais were named after him, Horus was considered as the supr

se. The tree called Persea was consecrated to him, because its leaves were shaped like a tongue, and the fruit like a heart.

is right hand was placed upon his lip, to denote silence. What rites were peculiar to the religion of ancient Egypt? What o

at rites were peculiar to the religion of ancient Egypt? What objects were exhibited in Egyptian temples? Is the mythology o

nown? Did any of the people of Egypt acknowledge but one God; and who were the principal deities of Egypt? Who were Osiris;

owledge but one God; and who were the principal deities of Egypt? Who were Osiris; Isis; Typhon; Horus; Anubis; Serapis; Har

sunbeams. Priests took charge of the sacred fires in Persia, and they were also instructors of youth. These priests were oft

res in Persia, and they were also instructors of youth. These priests were often wise men, and well-informed. These were the

of youth. These priests were often wise men, and well-informed. These were the Magi, sometimes called Magicians. They were M

well-informed. These were the Magi, sometimes called Magicians. They were Magi, mentioned in the New Testament as wise men

sun, the ancient Persians worshipped the moon and the stars. Temples were dedicated to them; images of them were invented,

he moon and the stars. Temples were dedicated to them; images of them were invented, and magnificent festivals and processio

                                   How with stars. By him the heavens were spangled; how the sun, Refulgent Mithras, purest

n of Persia? What among the Persians was the symbol of the deity? Who were the ancient Magi? Did the Persians worship other

eviously to the discovery of the continent by Europeans, the Mexicans were the most highly civilized: and it is a truth exhi

ers and praises to the giver of all they possess. The Hebrews in Asia were , without doubt, the only nation which, before the

ir traditions. — Thus we are informed concerning them. The Roman gods were less pure in their actions than those of the Mexi

the Roman, for it was cruel — it required human sacrifices, and they were accounted happy who were thus offered to the gods

uel — it required human sacrifices, and they were accounted happy who were thus offered to the gods. The Mexicans, like the

and sometimes as ethereal spirits borne on light clouds, or that they were permitted to descend once more to earth, to warbl

nourable men becoming horses and noble quadrupeds; while mean persons were metamorphosed to bats, beetles, and disgusting re

e metamorphosed to bats, beetles, and disgusting reptiles. The Greeks were taught such a doctrine by one of their philosophe

gning rewards to the good, and punishments to the evil. Sacred stones were placed in the streets of Mexico, for this god to

image of Shining Mirror was of black marble, richly dressed. The ears were adorned with golden rings, and the breast covered

hem, and what people now believe in it? How many principal divinities were acknowledged by the Mexicans, and who was the chi

. In this state, while some of the desolate inhabitants on the earth, were standing around a fire, one person suddenly decla

mong them. After his disappearance, temples in honour of Quet-zal-cot were erected; and he received divine honours at Cholul

s and doves. The Mexicans worshipped a god and goddess of hell. These were supposed to inhabit a region of utter darkness; a

were supposed to inhabit a region of utter darkness; and their rites were performed in the night. Jo-al-ti-cit was the god

protection, they commended their sleeping children. Three gods of war were worshipped by the different tribes of Mexico; the

eatest number of human sacrifices. Three great sacrifices to this god were made every year. These North American savages, be

. Ix-lil-tot, the god of physic, had a temple, to which sick children were carried, in order to be cured of their diseases.

ese children, and taught them how to pray to the god. If the children were able, they were made to dance before the image of

d taught them how to pray to the god. If the children were able, they were made to dance before the image of the god; and af

mple in Mexico. Baskets and bunches of flowers, and beautiful wreaths were brought to the temple by the votaries of this Mex

he chief objects of the Mexican polytheism. The images of the Penates were kept in every house. The kings and great lords ke

y the Spaniards in the woods, houses, temples, and streets of Mexico, were almost infinitely multiplied. Who was Tlaloc? Ov

kneeling, or prostrate. Sacrifices, vows, oaths, fasts, and penances were practised by them. All the heathens attached grea

e around him, would dare profane the name of God? Temples to the gods were erected in all the inhabited country of Mexico. T

ounded by a wall built of stone and lime. The stones of its pavements were wrought to an exquisite polish. It had four gates

dorned by figures of huge stone serpents. The temples of the Mexicans were surrounded by a space for dances and ceremonies,

a space for dances and ceremonies, in the open air: near the temples, were houses for the accommodation of strangers who cam

houses for the accommodation of strangers who came to worship. There were likewise, reservoirs of water, in which the pries

onsecrated fountain, from which they drank. Not far from the temples, were buildings, in which the heads of human victims of

ldings, in which the heads of human victims offered in the sacrifices were preserved. The number of these heads in one colle

les; and besides these, upon the tops of the hills, and in the woods, were erected altars in the open air, for the worship o

of the mountain gods, and other rural deities. The priests of Mexico were numerous and rich. Great tracts of land were set

s. The priests of Mexico were numerous and rich. Great tracts of land were set apart for their maintenance. The upper classe

exican Priests. See plate, page 229. All the offices of religion were divided among the Mexican priesthood. Some were d

e offices of religion were divided among the Mexican priesthood. Some were diviners, and some were sacrificers; some compose

re divided among the Mexican priesthood. Some were diviners, and some were sacrificers; some composed hymns, and others sung

sers in all their houses, to use in their domestic devotions. Females were sometimes devoted to the priestly function from t

temple service? Were the functions of religious service numerous? How were females consecrated to the priestly office? Has t

s, but they devoted young women to the services of the Sun, and these were called the Virgins of the Sun. Religion of Gre

According to the Greek poet Pindar, the twelve principal divinities were introduced into Greece from Egypt. When the Greek

nities. The philosophers ridiculed the gods, and at the theatres they were sometimes mentioned with contempt. The utmost rev

rlasting hills that they cannot be removed. The temples of the Greeks were placed in the woods, upon the mountains, or upon

e stood by a river’s or a fountain’s side. The temples in the country were usually surrounded by trees, or sacred groves, wh

the country were usually surrounded by trees, or sacred groves, which were supposed to be honoured by the immediate presence

of Jerusalem faced the east. The different apartments of all temples were the holy and the profane. Into the former the pri

ans, among the Greeks, kept religiously thirty square stones on which were engraved the names of so many gods without any ef

ch still remain to be admired in museums and collections. The Greeks were an intolerant people, how did they manifest it? W

pagans revere mountains, and why? How did the temple stand, and what were the different apartments? What were the first ima

ow did the temple stand, and what were the different apartments? What were the first images of idolatry? ——— Priests are t

t consisted of prayers, sacrifices, and purifications. Public prayers were offered for the safety of the state, and its alli

thood was a numerous order, consisting of both sexes; and the priests were sometimes civil magistrates likewise. The Greek p

priests were sometimes civil magistrates likewise. The Greek priests were permitted to marry. In Homer, Chryses, the priest

implores the restoration of his daughter Chryseis. The Hebrew priests were required to be without any personal blemish; and

o be richly attired. (Ex. ch. xxix.) The chief priests of the Hebrews were all descended from Aaron. They were solemnly cons

The chief priests of the Hebrews were all descended from Aaron. They were solemnly consecrated to their office, and preside

ed up at the public worship. The priests expounded the civil law, and were assisted in their observances by the Levites. The

w, and were assisted in their observances by the Levites. The Levites were appointed to wait on the priests, to keep the tem

ist at the sacrifices. The Greek priests, like those of the true God, were men of a good constitution, and, indeed, preferre

nied all processions, and announced to the people the ceremonies that were to be observed. Who are priests? What were the p

eople the ceremonies that were to be observed. Who are priests? What were the prayers of the Pagans? What ancient prayer ha

er has been preserved? Were the Greek priests numerous? To what rules were the Hebrew priests subject? Who assisted them in

ture of Syrian and Egyptian fables. The principal gods of both people were the same; the demi-gods, or deified men, might ha

ecause the Romans more readily admitted the apotheosis of heroes, and were more tolerant than the Greeks. In the latter ages

reece, (B. C. 146,) Rome itself and the chief cities of the provinces were adorned with statues and temples, in honour of th

in honour of the gods of Greece. The most celebrated temples of Rome were the Capitol, or temple of Jupiter Capitolinus, an

) Next followed the vestals, attended by boys and girls whose parents were living. These sprinkled pure water on the ground.

ation stones in the wall; into this trench, wedges of gold and silver were first thrown, and the corner-stone was then depos

the present time, among Christians. The memorable fact, that “groves were God’s first temples,” is found in the history of

d for the temples of the gods,” said a Latin historian. Dodona’s oaks were honoured as the residence of Jupiter; the ancient

what respects might the religion of Greece and Rome differ; and what were the chief temples of the city of Rome? Where, and

fices for religious uses? Before the erection of costly temples, what were the places of worship? ——— The Romans placed gr

mans placed great confidence in soothsayers and auguries. Soothsayers were persons who pretended to foresee future events; a

birds intimated what might happen; and these signs, when favourable, were called auspices; and when unfavourable, portents.

erate circumstances, sneezing, spilling salt, hearing strange voices, were deemed lucky and unlucky. The art of explaining a

rious import, was Augury; and the Augurs, or explainers of mysteries, were respectable men at Rome, and were held in honour

Augurs, or explainers of mysteries, were respectable men at Rome, and were held in honour by the people. Divination, or aug

t to promise happiness or disappointment. Besides the Augurs at Rome, were Haruspices; these persons were commissioned to ex

pointment. Besides the Augurs at Rome, were Haruspices; these persons were commissioned to examine the dead bodies of victim

about to happen to the sacrificers, or to the Roman people. At Rome, were several distinct orders or colleges of priests; a

second King of Rome, was the principal founder of these orders. They were only few in number, sometimes not more than fifte

e than fifteen persons in an order. The Flamines, Sodales, and Salii, were of them. The most distinguished of the priests at

d Salii, were of them. The most distinguished of the priests at Rome, were the Pontifices; their duty was to appoint the pub

vals, and to punish inferior priests, and the vestal virgins, if they were guilty of any crime. The high-priest of this orde

of the people, the safety of the citizens, and the honour of the gods were committed to their guardianship. Cæsar Augustus,

elieves us from a burdensome worship, and from fears and error. What were soothsayers? What is an auspicious day, etc.? Wha

by the Romans? How did the Romans sometimes regard chickens, and who were the Haruspices? Were there three distinct orders

Haruspices? Were there three distinct orders of priests at Rome? Who were the Pontifices? How was the sacerdotal or priestl

joice that we are born in the present age? Sibyls. The Sibyls were virgin prophetesses, held in honour by the Romans

e Sibyls were virgin prophetesses, held in honour by the Romans. They were probably fictitious beings; or traditions of some

me real women, entirely altered from the original fact. The principal were the Delphic, the Erythrean, and Cumea, Sibyls. In

man history, frequent mention is made of the Sibylline oracles. These were books kept, or pretended to be kept, in the templ

or pretended to be kept, in the temple of Jupiter Capitolinus, which were committed to the care of certain persons, who, wh

ome. The woman immediately disappeared, and was never seen more. Who were the Sibyls? What were the Sibylline oracles? What

tely disappeared, and was never seen more. Who were the Sibyls? What were the Sibylline oracles? What was the origin of the

Tarquin in respect to the Sibylline books? Temples. Temples were places of worship, constructed of costly material

ewhat like a table, was an ornamental structure, before which prayers were offered, and upon which sacrifices were laid. An

ructure, before which prayers were offered, and upon which sacrifices were laid. An altar, when men worshipped in the open a

emselves in their prayers. All temples and inferior places of worship were held in reverence. Whenever the Romans passed a t

sides the temples and images of the gods, pillars and solitary altars were held in reverence by the nations of antiquity. A

-by of the sentiments of piety and gratitude. Temples and altars both were places of refuge for the guilty, and for the unfo

e unhappy exile who entreated his protection. What are temples? What were altars and their uses? Were other places of worsh

tection to criminals? ——— The most celebrated temples of the Greeks were those of Apollo, at Delphi; the Parthenon, in hon

e value of these offerings in their largest accumulation, before they were rifled by the conquerers of Greece, amounted to 5

the favourite goddess of all Attica. The architects of the Parthenon were Callicrates and Ictinus. The Parthenon was about

o be regretted that a great portion of these specimens of Grecian art were lost, with the vessel on board which they were, i

ecimens of Grecian art were lost, with the vessel on board which they were , in Cerigo bay, near the island of Cythera, in 18

e material of which the Parthenon and other edifices of the Acropolis were composed. Modern travellers admire the skill, and

Greece, seem to prove that the earliest places of idolatrous worship were all calculated to obstruct, rather than to admit

lands, wherever the gods of Greece and Rome, of Syria, and of Persia, were worshipped, in all those countries, the ruins of

t works of human art, and the universal concurrence of mankind. What were the principal temples of Greece, and by whom was

ipal temples of Greece, and by whom was that of Delphi enriched? What were the offerings at Delphi, and what became of them?

at became of them? What was the Parthenon, and who projected it? What were the dimensions of the Parthenon, and what was scu

les.] The Hebrew Scriptures give us accounts of prophets; men who were endowed by God with superior wisdom, and who were

f prophets; men who were endowed by God with superior wisdom, and who were enabled by divine assistance to foretell events,

ere enabled by divine assistance to foretell events, which afterwards were accomplished; and, moreover, to direct others wis

others wisely what they ought to do. When Herod inquired of the Jews were Christ should be born, they answered, in Bethlehe

hich express the will of God. The ancients believed that some persons were instructed to express and explain God’s will; and

nd these persons uttered oracles. Among- the ancients, certain places were fixed upon, where priests, when they were consult

he ancients, certain places were fixed upon, where priests, when they were consulted, gave information of the god’s purposes

lawgiver, went to the oracle of Apollo at Delphi, and inquired if it were the will of the gods, that the Spartans should ad

the divine will: and the Spartans obeyed. Those who consulted oracles were forced to pay for the information they sought; so

many persons resorted to the Delphic oracle, and such large presents were made to it, that the institution became immensely

as they chose, to those who consulted them. In Greece, besides these, were many other oracles; but those of Dodona and Delph

esides these, were many other oracles; but those of Dodona and Delphi were the chief. Does it appear from sacred history th

s? ——— [Religious Services.] The victims offered in sacrifice were often highly ornamented, and the priests on those

fice were often highly ornamented, and the priests on those occasions were richly dressed; the worshippers wore white, and b

und the altar and sung the epode, or last part of the song. The hymns were composed in honour of the gods, and celebrated th

e his favour to the supplicants. Various offerings besides sacrifices were brought to the temples; these were either designe

rious offerings besides sacrifices were brought to the temples; these were either designed to pacify the deity, if he had be

of flowers, cups of gold, or any thing which might adorn the temples, were presented to the gods, and hung upon the walls, p

to Melchisedek, King of Salem, and priest of the Most High God. How were animals to be sacrificed prepared, and what was r

ning? Did the worshippers among the ancients dance and sing, and what were their hymns? What other offerings besides sacrifi

g, and what were their hymns? What other offerings besides sacrifices were presented to the gods? What are tithes? [Piet

Though the Greeks and Romans did not worship one God as we do, nor were those they worshipped holy beings, they always co

ers, says the same authority. Every morning and evening supplications were offered. “Both at the rising of the sun and moon,

ssing, and give his property to the first-born, because he had, as it were , promised them in a solemn manner to Jacob who ha

declares he will surely do a certain act, he makes a vow. The Hebrews were permitted to take oaths upon solemn occasions. “T

t is his footstool,” etc. This injunction was given because the oaths were sometimes taken falsely, and sometimes needlessly

upon him. All important agreements, or covenants, among the ancients, were made with mutual oaths. False swearers are abhorr

, and what is a memorable example? What is an oath and a vow, and who were permitted to take oaths? Was there any other mode

w are perjured persons regarded everywhere? ——— Whenever the Greeks were about to embark on a voyage, previously to their

ce, and put up prayers for safety and success; and the sea-faring men were joined in their devotions by their friends and ne

ctors and patrons of those who sojourned in their land; and when they were restored to their homes, offered thanks for a saf

lished nations of Greece, of Egypt, and those of Italy, and of Syria, were bowing down before idols. There is no doubt that

were bowing down before idols. There is no doubt that the Phœnicians were informed of many facts which are contained in the

ngs of man’s device. The differences between the Hebrews and heathens were these. The Hebrews were instructed by God himself

differences between the Hebrews and heathens were these. The Hebrews were instructed by God himself; the heathens were left

were these. The Hebrews were instructed by God himself; the heathens were left to seek out God, if haply they might feel af

that taught them their duty to God and their neighbours; the heathens were a law to themselves; they had not the ten command

and of instruction. The Hebrews had true prophets, whose predictions were accomplished; the heathens, false oracles and div

re accomplished; the heathens, false oracles and diviners, whose lies were only delusions. The heathens had a religion which

ntry, but has preserved through all time, the piety and virtue, which were the weightier matters of the law. Having been sho

ews, which bear some resemblance to those of the Pagan nations: these were considerable in number. How should we feel in re

elong to the Deity only. The Priests, the Nazarites, and the Levites, were the holy persons among the Israelites or Hebrews.

the archbishop of Canterbury, are instances. The Hebrew high-priests were the descendants of Aaron’s eldest son, whose elde

priests were the descendants of Aaron’s eldest son, whose eldest sons were hereditary high-priests ever after, provided they

ided they had no bodily imperfection. The rest of Aaron’s descendants were inferior priests. The priests entered upon their

The priests entered upon their office at the age of thirty years, and were solemnly introduced to their public duty, by pray

ns of the Hebrews, was a religious order, called the Nazarites. These were persons who made a vow to devote themselves to th

ow during the time for which the vow was made. The other holy persons were the whole tribe of Levi, called the Levites. It w

on. What resemblances may be found between Paganism and Judaism? Who were the holy persons among the Hebrews? Had all the n

tiquity high-priests? Have Christian churches chief high-priests? Who were the Hebrew priests? Who were the Nazarites? What

ristian churches chief high-priests? Who were the Hebrew priests? Who were the Nazarites? What was the office of the Levites

olomon built was the Lord’s house. Both the Tabernacle and the Temple were called the Sanctuary. The Tabernacle was a movabl

ever they went, during their sojourn in the wilderness, and when they were established in Canaan, it was set up in Shiloh, a

olis of the Jewish state; and thither the whole people, or as many as were able, annually repaired to celebrate certain reli

was the veil of the Temple? What was Jerusalem? ——— The holy things were altars, garments, and vessels, besides incense, a

and holy perfumes, together with instruments used in the sacrifices, were holy things. Ark. The Ark was a box or

The Ark was a box or coffer of wood, overlaid with gold. In the ark were kept the Tables of the Law, these were stones on

overlaid with gold. In the ark were kept the Tables of the Law, these were stones on which the ten commandments were engrave

he Tables of the Law, these were stones on which the ten commandments were engraved. The book of the Law was that commonly c

Hebrews was furnished with golden dishes and spoons. Upon this table were set every Sabbath, twelve cakes of fresh bread ca

he Candlestick was a pillar of pure gold, from which several branches were extended which supported lamps. The lamps were da

which several branches were extended which supported lamps. The lamps were daily supplied with fresh oil, and kept always bu

always burning. The Altar of Incense, the Table, and the Candlestick were kept in the Holy Place. The Altar of Burnt-Offeri

nt-Offering was overlaid with brass, and was that on which sacrifices were offered. The fire used to enkindle the fuel used

ver stood under the open sky. The sacred vestments of the High-Priest were principally the Ephod, the Robe, and the Mitre. T

the Hebrew sacrifices, and in those of all the nations of antiquity, were required to be of the best quality that could be

of gratitude and homage which human beings can feel. These sacrifices were offered daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. What

ese sacrifices were offered daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. What were the holy things used in the Hebrew worship? What

stick? What was the Altar of Burnt-Offering? What was the Laver? What were the High-Priest’s garments? What were the substan

ering? What was the Laver? What were the High-Priest’s garments? What were the substances offered in sacrifices? [Jewish

ewish Holy Times.] The holy times chiefly observed by the Hebrews, were the morning and evening sacrifice, the Sabbath, t

nts without any fixed habitations. To these solemn feasts the Hebrews were commanded to bring a tithe or tenth part of their

owledgments of gratitude, weakness, penitence, hope, and trust. What were the holy times observed by the Hebrews? What was

s of different religions alike? 1. Dr. Clarke. 2. These domes were separate habitations of the celestial gods, const

tations of the celestial gods, constructed by Vulcan. 3. The Nereids were represented in the mythology to have blue hair. M

eek, and signifies a peninsula. 7. The Greeks called all nations who were not Greeks, barbarians. 8. Cenotaph, a monument,

of Christ, upon the darkened world, the pollutions of licentiousness were intermingled even with religious rites and compos

tes and compositions. Passions so degrading, and actions so shameful, were attributed by the Heathens to the false divinitie

lled according to their own ideas, they introduced into Greece. These were , in the course of time, diversified and augmented

class of Inferior Divinities, of whose residence no determinate ideas were given. How were the Celestial Divinities arranged

r Divinities, of whose residence no determinate ideas were given. How were the Celestial Divinities arranged by Grecian Myth

al Divinities arranged by Grecian Mythologists? The Celestial Deities were ranked in four distinct orders. What was the firs

st order or division? The first order comprised the Supreme Gods, who were likewise called Gods of the Nations, because they

reme Gods, who were likewise called Gods of the Nations, because they were known and revered by every nation. They were twen

he Nations, because they were known and revered by every nation. They were twenty in number. How were the Deities of this fi

re known and revered by every nation. They were twenty in number. How were the Deities of this first order farther divided,

r. How were the Deities of this first order farther divided, and what were their names? They were divided into two classes;

of this first order farther divided, and what were their names? They were divided into two classes; the first was called th

of eight divinities, who did not assist at the supreme Council. They were named Dii Selecti — Select Gods. These were Cœlus

the supreme Council. They were named Dii Selecti — Select Gods. These were Cœlus, Saturn, Genius, Orcus, Sol, Bacchus, Terra

order included the gods whom Ovid styled the celestial populace. They were called the Inferior Gods of Nations. They had no

called the Inferior Gods of Nations. They had no place in heaven; nor were they admitted to the Council of Jupiter. Pan, Pom

Council of Jupiter. Pan, Pomona, Flora, and the other rural Deities, were of this class. What was the third order? The thir

origin from a god and a mortal, or from a goddess and a mortal. Such were Hercules, Esculapius, Castor, Pollux, &c. Her

others; and even the miseries of life, as Poverty, Pain, &c. What were the Indigetes and Semones? Those divinities who w

in, &c. What were the Indigetes and Semones? Those divinities who were not of the first or second class. The word, Semon

erra, different names for the earth, was of the goddesses. Their sons were called Titan and Saturn, which latter was the sam

nformably to this agreement, Saturn devoured his sons as fast as they were born. What appears to be the meaning of this barb

uring his reign, in Italy, emphatically called the golden age.2 What were the actions and attributes of Janus? Janus receiv

essaly, into Italy. He there civilized the manners of the people, who were living in a wild and savage state; and when succe

chains, in remembrance of those with which his son loaded him. These were taken off during the festival of the Saturnalia,

ts, trees, and animals proceed from the earth. The box and pine trees were esteemed sacred to her. History informs us, that

locked up in her bosom, the seeds of every sort of fruit. Her temples were round, in imitation of the form of the earth. The

re round, in imitation of the form of the earth. The feasts of Cybele were called Megalesia, and her priests Galli, from a r

ter; or Dactyli, from the Greek word signifying fingers, because they were ten in number, like the fingers. The feasts of th

they were ten in number, like the fingers. The feasts of this goddess were celebrated with the noise of drums and cymbals, a

d cries.‌ 3 She had a temple at Rome, called Opertum, into which men were never admitted. Great guardian queen of Ida’s hi

ns. What was the number of these Priestesses of Vesta? At first, they were only four in number, but were, afterwards, increa

se Priestesses of Vesta? At first, they were only four in number, but were , afterwards, increased to seven. At what age were

four in number, but were, afterwards, increased to seven. At what age were they consecrated to Vesta, and how long did their

f service last? The Roman virgins, destined for the service of Vesta, were chosen between the age of six and ten years. The

ss lasted thirty years, and it was not till after this term that they were free from their priesthood, and at liberty to mar

priesthood, and at liberty to marry. During the first ten years, they were instructed in the duties of their profession, pra

so important, that when it happened to expire, all public spectacles were forbidden till the crime was expiated. This event

lived 120 years, and reigned 60, after the defeat of the Titans. What were the principal names of this God? He was called Jo

ns, greatly diversified. The victims most commonly offered to Jupiter were a goat, a sheep, or a white bull, with gilded hor

not unfrequently, only flour, salt, or incense. The oak and the olive were consecrated to him. He had three oracles, much ce

lly, Samos, and Argos, where she was more particularly worshiped. Who were her children? Hebe, Mars, and Vulcan. What was he

os, was her statue of gold and ivory, of prodigious size, above which were placed the Hours and Graces. What were her attrib

f prodigious size, above which were placed the Hours and Graces. What were her attributes and worship? This goddess preside

the heathen world. Young geese, and the hawk, as well as the peacock, were esteemed sacred to her. Of plants, the dittany an

eacock, were esteemed sacred to her. Of plants, the dittany and poppy were offered to her. In her sacrifices, an ewe lamb wa

heavens produce: and round the gold; Two brazen rings of work divine were roll’d. The bossy naves, of solid silver, shone;

ers joins, and breathes revenge and war. Pope’s Homer’s Iliad. What were the offices of Hebe? She was the blooming Goddess

floating robes of brilliant and varying colours. Her peculiar offices were , to convey the commands of Juno; to create dissen

with poppies and wheat, and her left, grasping a lighted torch. What were her attributes? She is the goddess of fruits; for

the art of tilling the earth, and sowing corn, and making bread. What were the sacrifices offered to this Goddess? Swine, be

the productions of the earth; and garlands, composed of ears of corn, were offered to her. The husbandmen carried through th

Egyptians, Osiris; the Ammonites, Moloch; the Persians, Mythras. What were the attributes of Sol? He was considered as rulin

eities. O’er all, the heaven’s refulgent image shines, Oh either gate were six engraven signs. The God sits high exalted on

Sun. A golden axle did the car uphold; Gold was the beam; the wheels were orbed with gold; The spokes in rows of silver ple

And leave the breezes of the morn behind. Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Who were the children of the Sun? The Sun was supposed to

e Sun was supposed to have many children; the most celebrated of whom were , Aurora, Circe, and Phaeton. Aurora, every mornin

iking colours, the imprudence of many of our wishes, and to shew that were they all to be granted, they would frequently be

n mournful silence round the body of their beloved brother, till they were changed into poplars and their tears became amber

ears affright, And break the solemn silence of the night. These once were men; But Circe’s charms confine, In brutal shapes

island from being inundated, and rooted it firmly in the sea. Therein were born Apollo and Diana, her twin children. What we

the sea. Therein were born Apollo and Diana, her twin children. What were the names of Apollo? He was called Delos, from th

n, from his mitigating pain, or from his great skill in hunting. What were the attributes of Apollo? He was supposed to pres

moving, pestilential disorders. The laurel was dedicated to him. What were his actions? Among many absurd and immoral action

fixed on man. Pope’s Homer’s Iliad. Chap. X. The Muses. Who were the Muses? Daughters of Jupiter and Mnemosyne, or

was Diana? The sister of Apollo, daughter of Jupiter and Latona. What were her names? The Egyptians called her Isis. Among t

oddess, Diana, or Dictynna; and in the infernal regions, Hecate. What were her offices? She was the goddess of chastity, of

. Sometimes she appears in a chariot of silver, drawn by hinds. Where were situated her most celebrated temples? She had two

All strangers, whether landing there, by choice, or driven by storms, were cruelly immolated. Orestes and Pylades, so celebr

ith branches of the same plants, and a cantharus or ancient cup. What were the various names by which he was distinguished?

sæus, from the use of grapes and honey. Nictilius, because his feasts were celebrated in the night by torch light. Euvyhe, a

ntly addressed to him during the war of the Giants and the Gods. What were the actions of Bacchus? He taught the art of cult

ed the reputation of possessing golden streams and golden sands. What were the sacrifices of this divinity? The fir, the ivy

the sacrifices of this divinity? The fir, the ivy, the fig, the vine, were consecrated to Bacchus. The goat was slain in his

ctive to vines; and the Egyptians immolated swine to his honour. What were the feasts of Bacchus? The various festivals of t

were the feasts of Bacchus? The various festivals of the God of wine were celebrated, as may well be supposed, with riot an

e absurd, impious, and licentious, than these horrid festivals, which were named Bacchanalia, Dionysia, Triterica, and Orgia

er helmet, because she taught the use of that fruit. What other names were given her, besides that of Minerva? She was calle

prevents surprise; are consecrated to the furious God of battle. What were his titles? Mars; Ares, or injury, calamity; from

rom the ravages of war; and Corythaix, or Shaker of the Helmet. Where were his temples and what were his priests called? He

d Corythaix, or Shaker of the Helmet. Where were his temples and what were his priests called? He had several temples at Rom

and among the Greeks and other warlike nations. His priests, at Rome, were called Salii, and had the care of the Ancilia, or

twenty-four. Who is Mars supposed to represent in real history? There were many princes of this name, and almost every natio

f Styx and Acheron. She had several temples in Greece and Rome. Games were instituted to her honour. She was represented as

and as she walks, flowers bloom beneath her feet. The rosy Hours, who were entrusted with her education, receive and conduct

entrusted with her education, receive and conduct her to heaven. What were her various names? By the Eastern nations she was

a mysterious girdle, supposed to excite irresistible affection. Where were her principal temples and what was her worship? T

n. Where were her principal temples and what was her worship? Temples were erected to her honour almost every where; but the

were erected to her honour almost every where; but the most beautiful were those of Paphos, Gnidus, Amathus, Cythera, and Id

hair to this Goddess. The dove and the swan, the rose and the myrtle, were considered as sacred to her. Venus. She said, an

s; his wife was Psyche; a Greek word, signifying Spirit, or Soul. Who were the Graces? They were supposed to give its attrac

; a Greek word, signifying Spirit, or Soul. Who were the Graces? They were supposed to give its attractive charms to beauty

s to beauty of every kind, and to dispense the gift of pleasing. They were supposed by some, to be the daughters of Jupiter

of Jupiter and Eurynome; but the most general opinion was, that they were daughters of Venus and Bacchus: they were represe

eral opinion was, that they were daughters of Venus and Bacchus: they were represented sometimes as being three, and sometim

mes four, in number; named Aglaia, Thalia, Euphrosyne, Pasithea. They were painted as beautiful young virgins, crowned with

o their honour. They presided also over friendship and gratitude; and were worshiped as pure and innocent. Chap. XVI. Vul

t. Chap. XVI. Vulcan. Who was Vulcan? It appears that there were three of the name of Vulcan. The first was Tubalc

ale forms uphold. That mov’d, and breath’d, in animated gold; To whom were voice, and sense, and science giv’n Of works divi

ch wonders are in heav’n!) Pope’s Homer’s Iliad. What eminent works were ascribed to him? He was the God of fire; the inve

fire which Prometheus stole from the chariot of the sun; these, all, were works of his art. What were his various names? Be

from the chariot of the sun; these, all, were works of his art. What were his various names? Besides Vulcan, he was called

Besides Vulcan, he was called Lemnius, Mulciber, and Tardipes. Where were the principal temples and festivals of Vulcan? At

ncipal temples and festivals of Vulcan? At Athens and Rome, festivals were kept to his honour. Upon Mount Etna, a temple was

xquisite, as to enable them to discern whether those who came thither were virtuous of vicious, and who fawned upon, or drov

nd the assemblies in which they discussed the most important affairs, were held in the temple of Vulcan. At Memphis, in Egyp

at children had he? Erictheus, fourth king of Athens, was his son, as were likewise Cacus, a horrid monster of cruelty, kill

ty, killed by Hercules, and Cœculus, a fierce and violent robber. Who were the Cyclops? They were the workmen of Vulcan, and

and Cœculus, a fierce and violent robber. Who were the Cyclops? They were the workmen of Vulcan, and made Jove’s thunderbol

be sons of Neptune, by others, of Cœlus and Terra. The chief of them were Brontes, Steropes, and Pyracmon. The Cyclops. Am

rain, three forks of hail conspire, Three arm’d with wind; and three were barb’d with fire. The mass they temper’d thick wi

Pitt’s Virgil. Chap. XVII. Mercury. Who was Mercury? There were two of that name; the Egyptian, and the Grecian M

rated for great knowledge and admirable talents. To him the Egyptians were indebted for the flourishing state of their arts

asures, and conducted departing spirits to the infernal regions. What were his names? Mercury, from Mercatura, Commerce; Her

d? As a young man with a cheerful countenance, and lively eyes; wings were fixed to his cap and to his sandals; and in his h

to his sandals; and in his hand was the caduceus, a wand, round which were entwined two serpents. The Egyptians gave him a f

ometimes in heaven and sometimes in the infernal regions. His statues were frequently placed in the high roads, to point out

s Virgil. Chap. XVIII. Divinities of the Sea and Rivers. What were the divinities of the waters? Each river and foun

two Oceanides, and fifty Nereides; and three thousand aquatic nymphs, were regarded as Divinities. Who was Oceanus? The son

ch they celebrated to his honour Consualia, when the horses and mules were exempted from labour, and crowned with garlands o

were exempted from labour, and crowned with garlands of flowers. What were his offices? He presided over the training of hor

, Troy, though rais’d by Neptune, sunk in fires. Pitt’s Virgil. Who were the children of Neptune? The most remarkable of t

irgil. Who were the children of Neptune? The most remarkable of them were , Polyphemus, one of the Cyclops; a dreadful giant

ful giant, who resided in Sicily, and devoured those human beings who were so unfortunate as to fall into his hands; Phorcus

’s Virgil. Chap. XIX. [Tritons, Syrens, Proteus, &c.] Who were the Tritons? They were imaginary sea animals, the

X. [Tritons, Syrens, Proteus, &c.] Who were the Tritons? They were imaginary sea animals, the upper part of whose bo

ants in their war with the Gods, by the sound of his instrument. What were the Sirens? They are represented as beautiful you

to approach the dangerous shore, which proved their destruction. They were supposed to have uncommonly melodious voices, and

ree and well dissembled foliage wears. Pope’s Homer’s Odyssey. Who were Glaucus, Portumnus, Saron, Egeon, Ino, and Palemo

y. Who were Glaucus, Portumnus, Saron, Egeon, Ino, and Palemon? They were mortals changed into sea Gods, by some extraordin

, was forced to take refuge in the deepest recesses of the ocean. Who were Scylla and Charybdis? The former was supposed to

used to plunder travellers, but was killed at last by Hercules. These were mere personifications of the dangerous rocks, and

trembles, while she churns the blood. Pope’s Homer’s Odyssey. What were the Halcyons? Sea birds, who were supposed to bui

ood. Pope’s Homer’s Odyssey. What were the Halcyons? Sea birds, who were supposed to build their nests upon the waves, and

Halcyons, and imparted to them the power of stilling the waves. What were the names of the various tribes of Nymphs? Those

various tribes of Nymphs? Those who presided over rivers and waters, were named Naiades; those who resided in marshes, Lymn

med Naiades; those who resided in marshes, Lymniades. The wood nymphs were called Dryades and Hamadryades. The nymphs of the

phs of the mountains, Oreades. Milk, honey, oil, and sometimes goats, were sacrificed to their honour. Chap. XX. [Eolus,

set at liberty, at his own will, or at the command of his father. Who were his children? Boreas, the north wind; Auster, the

winds, he learnt to distinguish those which blew most violently, and were of longest duration. His descendants sent colonie

vens to illumine the earth. From him proceeded Tartarus and Nox. What were the various appellations given to the earth? The

various appellations given to the earth? The names of Ops and Tellus were indifferently applied to the earth; and frequentl

was superbly adorned, and the apartments splendidly illuminated. They were extremely cautious to prevent the presence of any

any male animal. The master of the house, his sons, his men-servants, were excluded; all the windows carefully closed, and e

ded; all the windows carefully closed, and even the pictures of males were veiled. Who was Terminus? Numa, finding the laws

esented under the form of an immoveable rock. Milk, cakes, and fruit, were offered to him, and his image was crowned with fl

rds and protectress of flocks. Her feasts, called Palilia or Parilia, were celebrated in the month of April, on which occasi

It was during this feast, they celebrated the founding of Rome. What were the other rural Divinities? Anna Perenna, nearly

; and Collina of hills; while Jugatinus presided over hillocks. These were all invented by the Romans, and are not to be met

e met with among the Grecian Deities. The Satyrs, Fauns, and Egipans, were rural divinities, supposed to inhabit forests and

ere rural divinities, supposed to inhabit forests and mountains. They were represented as half men and half goats, Chap.

crated to him, being supposed to be the same, where Romulus and Remus were suckled by the wolf, in Latin lupus. His priests

mulus and Remus were suckled by the wolf, in Latin lupus. His priests were called Luperci. Pan was also regarded as the insp

into a pine tree, which was afterwards sacred to Pan. Milk and honey were offered to this Deity Chap. XXIII. [Silenus, L

hus in his expedition to India, and was his principal counsellor. Who were the Lares and Penates? Gods presiding over empire

s, cities, highways, houses, and individuals. Among these Divinities, were ranked the souls of them who had faithfully serve

among them the spirits of their departed friends and relations. They were esteemed as the guardians of houses. They were wo

ds and relations. They were esteemed as the guardians of houses. They were worshiped, under the figure of small images of hu

y were worshiped, under the figure of small images of human form, and were kept in the most retired part of the edifices. La

e most retired part of the edifices. Lamps, the symbols of vigilance, were consecrated to them, and that faithful domestic a

ring the public feasts of these Lares and Penates, small waxen images were suspended in the streets, and they were intreated

d Penates, small waxen images were suspended in the streets, and they were intreated, upon these alone, to lay the weight of

e Romans supposed them to be descendants of Jupiter and Larmida. What were the Genii? They were likewise ranked in the numbe

m to be descendants of Jupiter and Larmida. What were the Genii? They were likewise ranked in the number of these domestic D

him; one, the author of his happiness, the other, of his misery. They were represented as young men, holding, in one hand, a

a drinking vessel, and in the other, a horn of plenty. Sometimes they were depicted under the form of serpents. The forehead

over the Nile, to Heliopolis, he city of the Sun. The Elysian fields were the beautiful plains surrounding the lake Acherus

y the deceased, might bring forward their accusations. If the charges were proved, the rites of interment were refused; but

their accusations. If the charges were proved, the rites of interment were refused; but if not, the accuser was liable to a

, accompanied by the applauses of the attendants. Even their monarchs were not exempted from this judgment. What representat

ur’d steps, to form the solemn dance. Others, beneath a laurel grove, were laid, And, joyful, feasted in the fragrant shade.

er of the infernal regions, was the third son of Saturn and Ops. What were his names? His principal names were Dis, signifyi

third son of Saturn and Ops. What were his names? His principal names were Dis, signifying riches; Hades; Urgus, derived fro

, to impel; Februus, from the word expressing the purifications which were practised in funeral rites; Orcus, Quietus, and S

has the power of rendering him invisible. The victims offered to him were generally black sheep. Who was Proserpine? The da

nsmigration? When the souls left the bodies which they animated, they were conducted by Mercury, either to Tartarus, or the

l Regions, Furies, Fates, Nemesis, Manes, Nox, Somnus, Mors.] Who were the three judges of the infernal regions? Minos,

Field of Truth, which falsehood and calumny could never approach. Who were the Furies? They were three in number; Tisiphone6

falsehood and calumny could never approach. Who were the Furies? They were three in number; Tisiphone6, Megæra, and Alecto7.

ies? They were three in number; Tisiphone6, Megæra, and Alecto7. They were accounted to be the daughters of Acheron and Nox.

es. The Greeks named them Diræ, Erinnes, Disturbers of the Mind. They were also called Eumenides, or the Mild, when supposed

Eumenides, or the Mild, when supposed to be appeased by Minerva. Who were the Fates? The Fates or Parcæ were three in numbe

sed to be appeased by Minerva. Who were the Fates? The Fates or Parcæ were three in number, daughters of Necessity. They wer

The Fates or Parcæ were three in number, daughters of Necessity. They were supposed to spin and cut the thread of human life

taff; Lachesis turned the spindle; Atropos cut the thread. Happy days were spun out of gold and silver, while the thread of

warded virtue, while she punished vice with unrelenting severity. Who were the Manes? The gods, called Manes, were not clear

ith unrelenting severity. Who were the Manes? The gods, called Manes, were not clearly distinguished by the ancient poets. T

lled Manes, were not clearly distinguished by the ancient poets. They were frequently considered as the souls of the dead, a

ivinities, however, presided over funerals, and departed spirits, who were supposed to wander about the tombs. Who was Nox?

paid to the infernal Divinities? To these terrible Deities no altars were ever raised. Trenches were cut in the earth, into

ities? To these terrible Deities no altars were ever raised. Trenches were cut in the earth, into which was poured the blood

sing them towards heaven. Being regarded as implacable, these Deities were objects of great terror. No hymns were composed t

d as implacable, these Deities were objects of great terror. No hymns were composed to their honour; no temples dedicated to

ymns were composed to their honour; no temples dedicated to them. Who were the principal criminals punished in the infernal

the principal criminals punished in the infernal regions? The Titans were represented as being precipitated into Tartarus f

into Tartarus for having made war against Jupiter and the Gods; they were Atlas, Briareus, Gyges, Iapetus, Hyperion, and Oc

t killed their husbands, the sons of Egyptus, their father’s brother, were sentenced to the continued toil of filling, with

, Providence, Opportunity, Fear, Flight, Paleness, Discord; all these were personified, and honoured under their respective

se were personified, and honoured under their respective emblems. Who were Comus and Momus? Comus presided over entertainmen

, Demigods, Centaurs, Sphynx, Chimæra, Harpies, and Gorgons.] Who were the Heroes or Demigods? Princes and others, who,

hers, who, having, in their life-time, performed illustrious actions, were , after their death, placed in the rank of subordi

nour of them, and a high degree of worship paid to their memory. They were supposed to enjoy continued existence, and to int

ce, and to interest themselves greatly in the affairs of mortals. Who were the earliest of these Heroes? Inachus, Cecrops, D

ts; Pelops and Cadmus, who introduced the knowledge of letters. These were all leaders of colonies from various parts of the

was also named Alcides, from his extraordinary force and valour. What were the labours of Hercules? Twelve of his most remar

t were the labours of Hercules? Twelve of his most remarkable actions were particularized by the name of his labours. He kil

own, after a chace of a year, a hind consecrated to Diana, whose feet were of brass, and whose horns were of gold. He killed

hind consecrated to Diana, whose feet were of brass, and whose horns were of gold. He killed or drove away the Stymphalides

ich had not been emptied for thirty years, though three thousand oxen were constantly lodged in it. He tamed a furious bull,

le-headed dog of the infernal regions. What other actions of his life were remarkable? When in his cradle, he strangled two

and was the first who made use of sails, which, by poetical licence, were called wings. He is said to have built, for Minos

rom their own country. This enterprise, and the dangers attending it, were highly ornamented by poetic fiction. The treasure

difficulties they met with, as formidable monsters guarding it; which were overcome by Jason, through the magical aid of Med

ynceus, famous for astonishingly quick sight, with many other heroes, were engaged in this expedition. Were there not other

Ulysses, Diomede, Hector, Paris, Agamemnon, Menelaus, and Ajax. What were the Centaurs? Imaginary beings, half men and half

of Lycia, and which is still apparent. On the summit of the mountain, were lions; in the middle, goats pastured; and the low

ain, were lions; in the middle, goats pastured; and the lower regions were infested by serpents. Bellerophon, a famous hero,

s expire; Her gaping throat emits infernal fire. Pope’s Homer. What were the Harpies and the Gorgons? The Harpies were fie

e. Pope’s Homer. What were the Harpies and the Gorgons? The Harpies were fierce winged animals, with the faces of virgins,

strike th’ impenetrable fiends in vain. Pitt’s Virgil. The Gorgons were the three daughters of Phorcus and Cete. Instead

the three daughters of Phorcus and Cete. Instead of hair, their heads were covered with vipers. So dreadful was their appear

e Athenians. Chap. XXIX. [The seven Wonders of the World.] What were the seven wonders of the world? First. The Coloss

f enormous stones, thirty feet thick. It is recorded that 360,000 men were employed in building it, during the space of twen

space of twenty years. The other two are smaller. It is supposed they were intended as sepulchres for the kings of Egypt. Se

is recorded to have been a most splendid edifice, of which the stones were cemented with gold. It was built with equal skill

he good and the evil genius. The fourth is the age of Pantheism. What were the doctrines of the Emanation and Transmigration

ndividual living creatures, whether animals or plants; for all plants were supposed to contain imprisoned souls, involved in

or pain, but also sensible of the destruction awaiting them, as they were ever hastening towards the inevitable goal, in th

as possible, but not necessarily implied; while the perversely guilty were considered as cut off, and cast away for ever. Fr

great fame and extensive respect, by brilliant or beneficial actions, were ranked among the deities. What is the doctrine of

the whole creation, the rebellious Dewtahs, or malignant Spirits, who were led astray by Mahasoor, their chief, hurling upon

And form’d a palace worthy of the God, Built on the lake, the waters were its floor; And here, its walls were water arch’d

od, Built on the lake, the waters were its floor; And here, its walls were water arch’d with fire, And here, were fire with

its floor; And here, its walls were water arch’d with fire, And here, were fire with water vaulted o’er. And spires and pinn

wing account of a temple of the Sun, which he, there, saw: “The walls were of red marble, interspersed with streaks of gold.

made in various forms, to answer benevolent purposes. Of this number, were Rama, Chrishna, and Buddha, who was the ninth inc

the Hindû sacrifices? In ancient times, not only sacrifices of beasts were common amongst the Hindûs, but even of human bein

ce of the country, was 750,000 l.; and 8000 lb. weight of provisions, were daily prepared for the use of the priests and the

heir families, composing a multitude of not less than 40,000 persons, were maintained by the liberality of the pilgrims freq

as well as the souls of men and inferior animals, and even of plants, were emanations. Thence, the worship of the Egyptians

cause from the effect; or they believed that the elements themselves were animated. The operations of nature described in m

The operations of nature described in mystical and poetical language were , probably, mistaken by the unthinking multitude f

, most of their gods. The inhabitants of the Thebais, in Upper Egypt, were said to have worshiped the immortal, uncreated Go

l, uncreated God alone, whom they called Cneph; for which reason they were exempted from contributing to the maintenance of

to the maintenance of the sacred animals, adored in Lower Egypt. What were the objects of worship to the Egyptians? The Sun

Sometimes a figure with painted wings denoted the sun; and the wings were of different colours, according as the emblem rep

the Cat, and other animals, and even some inanimate substances, which were used, at first, as hieroglyphics, finally came to

shiped under the figure of a cat, and all the cats that died in Egypt were salted, for preservation, and buried at Bubastos.

owledge, and sounder philosophy, which they communicated to those who were initiated into the sacred mysteries. It is univer

cessively through various bodies. The bodies of their deified mortals were preserved, by embalming, in their sepulchres; whi

were preserved, by embalming, in their sepulchres; while their souls were imagined to be transferred to, and to shine forth

ed to be transferred to, and to shine forth in, different Stars.  Who were the principal Deities of the Egyptian religion? O

ets of nature, and uncommon skill in the science of medicine. Temples were erected to her honour, and festivals held in her

rected to her honour, and festivals held in her praise; some of which were very absurd, and even indecent. Prayers were addr

er praise; some of which were very absurd, and even indecent. Prayers were addressed to her for the cure of distempers, and

have been translated into the moon, and to be the general mother. Who were Typhon and Nepthys? Typhon and Nepthys stand oppo

and Isis, in all respects. As all fertile regions and prolific causes were supposed to belong to Osīris and Isis; so all bar

to belong to Osīris and Isis; so all barren and unproductive elements were assigned to Typhon, and Nepthys, his consort, the

nce of that river, was the unfruitful Nepthys. When those arid tracts were watered and rendered productive by some unusual e

se aspect is hideous, and whose disposition is fierce and untameable, were sacred to Typhon; such as the crocodile, the hipp

as the crocodile, the hippopotamus, and others. The Typhonian animals were symbols of darkness and destruction. Typhon was d

ther deities to take refuge under the forms of various animals, which were afterwards esteemed sacred on that account. At la

be one of his attributes; and obelisks, as emblems of the solar rays, were dedicated to him. When his father was vanquished

he city Cynopolis. The statue of this god had the head of a dog: dogs were accounted sacred to him; and where his worship pr

ed to him; and where his worship principally prevailed, these animals were fed in the temples, at the public charge. He was

at the same time, corresponded to the Grecian Esculapius, whose rites were borrowed from those of Serāpis; to whom, too, the

s were borrowed from those of Serāpis; to whom, too, the same animals were appropriated, the serpent and the cock. Some writ

g of buds, and the springing lip of tender and esculent plants. There were no animals sacred to him, as to the other Egyptia

ruits of leguminous plants and the opening blossoms of the peach-tree were sacrificed to him. The figure, under which Harpōc

s, or Theuth, or Thoth, all the science and learning of the Egyptians were attributed. He taught them the art of writing, ga

r sciences. Hence the books composed by the priests on such subjects, were called Hermetic books, as being consecrated to He

ed her attention to agriculture, and the pastoral life. Her shepherds were true heroes; her kings, philosophers. In the mids

the preceding Mercury, collecting them into forty-two volumes, which were called, “The Treasure of Remedies for the Soul.”

its supposed blindness, an emblem of primeval night or darkness. What were the principal objects of Egyptian worship, in the

le, and the mineral kingdoms? The objects of worship to the Egyptians were , in the animal kingdom, — Of quadrupeds, — the Ox

the names of Oxyrhynchus, Lepidotus, Phagri, and Mæotæ: these fishes were considered as prophetic messengers of the annual

s sorts, the Onion, the Leek, the Acacia, the Heliotrope, the Laurel, were all regarded as sacred by that superstitious peop

s of the moon. These fancied analogies, and the mystical powers which were supposed to result from them, appear to have give

m to obey a particular call. The worshipers of these terrible animals were so infatuated that mothers rejoiced when their ch

animals were so infatuated that mothers rejoiced when their children were devoured by them, believing that great honour was

estroy the impious. For these venemous reptiles subterranean chambers were prepared, under many of the temples, in which the

nean chambers were prepared, under many of the temples, in which they were fed with the fat of oxen. Another kind of serpent

delightful abode, ample space for exercise, and suitable companions, were provided for him. The man from whose herd the div

l crime to kill any of the sacred animals; but if an ibis, or a hawk, were destroyed accidentally, the unfortunate author of

dog, the whole head was shaved. In the extremity of famine, when they were driven by hunger almost to devour one another, th

hey were driven by hunger almost to devour one another, the Egyptians were never accused of slaughtering the sacred animals.

ghtering the sacred animals. Chap. VI. Persian Mythology. What were the principal characteristics of the Persian Myth

Genii of the elements and chief powers of nature, called Amshaspands, were represented by the Persian mythology, as standing

, stood as the Mediator between them and the Deity. Animal sacrifices were abolished by that religion; and simple vegetable,

ough the medium of the fairest productions of the earth. The elements were not the only immediate and sensible objects of wo

t spirits. A reign of unchanging bliss, realms of ever-beaming light, were taught by this system, as well as a scene of prim

e religious rites, and of giving moral and philosophical instruction, were named Magi, and were justly held in high estimati

d of giving moral and philosophical instruction, were named Magi, and were justly held in high estimation. But this comparat

, the adoration of the sun, moon, and other celestial bodies. Temples were dedicated to them; images of them were formed, an

ther celestial bodies. Temples were dedicated to them; images of them were formed, and magnificent festivals were instituted

icated to them; images of them were formed, and magnificent festivals were instituted to their honour. Mahabad, one of fourt

ted system of Polytheism was rejected; but the regulations of Mahabad were retained, with a superstitious veneration for the

stinguished from each other, as the Man, and the Man-Bull; that these were the first of beings formed by the immediate hand

upreme. The Man was called Kaiomorts, and the Bull, Aboudad, and they were combined together, constituting one being; so tha

s covered with water, and all the Kharfesters, the mischievous genii, were destroyed. At length, the creating God drove back

seasons, and the various operations of the natural world. His symbols were , the bull, or the Man-Bull; the serpent; a serpen

the serpent; a serpent, a globe, and wings united. Certain mysteries were called by his name, similar to those of Isis and

raditions concerning the deluge, and upon astronomical opinions. They were celebrated in deep caverns, or in artificial grot

artificial grottoes, in the mountains of Persia. The Mithratic caves were supposed to be emblems of the world, and sometime

this chaos, arose the sun and the planets. Into the different planets were distributed the seven genii, the principal compan

globe In fruitfulness and beauty; how with stars, By him, the heavens were spangled; how the sun Refulgent Mithras, purest s

as their favourite divinity. To him they consecrated groves, in which were oaks of extraordinary size, esteemed so sacred, t

r trunk, was accounted sacrilege, and punished with death. These oaks were sprinkled with the blood of the victims offered t

with it. To him they raised wooden altars of immense magnitude, which were quadrangular; having three sides perpendicular, a

the wind, as the cause of life; and the sword, as the cause of death, were likewise venerated by them. A being, named Zamolx

ir deceased friends. To all of these Deities groves, and not temples, were consecrated by the Scythians: and priests were ap

oves, and not temples, were consecrated by the Scythians: and priests were appropriated to the conducting their respective r

ith the most abominable and cruel rites. The priests of this religion were called Druids, and they had the entire direction

s and prayers. To them was intrusted the education of the youth. They were honoured in the highest degree, and determined al

was a most severe punishment, since they against whom it was directed were held in universal detestation as impious and exec

ted were held in universal detestation as impious and execrable. They were rendered incapable of any trust, or honour; were

and execrable. They were rendered incapable of any trust, or honour; were put out of the protection of the laws, and expose

protection of the laws, and exposed to insult and injury. The Druids were exempted from taxes and military service. It was

steemed unlawful to commit their religious doctrines to writing. They were taught and transmitted entirely by tradition, and

ted, at the expense of great labour. Amongst their leading doctrines, were those of the immortality of the soul, and its tra

transmigration through various bodies. Their acknow-leged divinities were , Teutates, Hesus, the god of war; Dis, or Pluto;

e; which was received into a white sagum, or cloak. The sacred groves were surrounded by a ditch or a mound. In their centre

h one or two rows of large stones. This was the temple. Close to that were the Carnedde, or consecrated mount; and the Croml

ecrated mount; and the Cromlech, or stone of sacrifice. Human victims were frequently offered by those who laboured under di

ctims were frequently offered by those who laboured under disease, or were about to go to battle. Upon important public occa

em with human beings, and consumed them, together, by fire. Criminals were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the Gods;

were deemed the offerings most acceptable to the Gods; but when these were wanting, innocent persons were frequently immolat

acceptable to the Gods; but when these were wanting, innocent persons were frequently immolated. The poet Lucan has thus des

e celebration of his worship in consecrated woods. From this Supreme, were imagined to spring a vast number of subaltern div

htning. To this was added the belief of a future state, in which they were rewarded with numberless joys, who fulfilled the

nd slaughter, their religion partook of that character. Human victims were frequently offered, and were often esteemed subst

partook of that character. Human victims were frequently offered, and were often esteemed substitutes for warriors, or princ

o die, In times of great danger, or public calamity, even their kings were sometimes sacrificed, to appease the anger of the

in each of which nine animal victims, frequently captives or slaves, were slain on a large stone, at the foot of the altar,

t of the altar, on which was burning the everlasting fire. The bodies were opened by the priests, who drew omens from the en

kled on the people, and part on the sacred grove, in which the bodies were finally suspended. Sometimes, the miserable victi

h the bodies were finally suspended. Sometimes, the miserable victims were precipitated into a deep well, near the consecrat

e custom of building temples for their Gods; the most famous of which were , at Upsal and Drontheim. Which were the chief, or

ir Gods; the most famous of which were, at Upsal and Drontheim. Which were the chief, or primary Deities of Scandinavian myt

ording to Scandinavian mythology, Giants existed before the Gods: who were supposed to be born, to reign, and to die, like e

s, Vile and Ve, he created man and woman of two clumps of wood, which were floating on the shore of the ocean. The first of

before, he was also worshiped as the god of arts and sciences. To him were ascribed the attributes of divinity; magnificent

To him were ascribed the attributes of divinity; magnificent temples were built and sacrifices offered. The fourth day of t

la, her handmaid, with long flowing hair, and a bandeau of gold. What were the offices and attributes ascribed to Thor? Thor

ror; and was said to contain 540 halls. Three articles of his armour, were particularly celebrated by the Scandinavian poets

ntlets, without which he could not grasp the formidable club. Prayers were addressed to him for favourable winds, refreshing

icated to him, and called after his name, Thor’s day; Thursday. Which were the principal of the secondary Deities of Scandin

out of every twelve days in the hilly regions, while the other three were spent on the shores of the ocean. Niorder is supp

s. Into his palace no impure person could enter; and upon its columns were engraven those Runic rhymes which were imagined t

ld enter; and upon its columns were engraven those Runic rhymes which were imagined to have power to revive the dead. He was

roken faith. What was the hell of the Scandinavian Mythology, and who were its chief inhabitants? It was called Niflheim, an

trument of their destruction; and the equally formidable serpent. Who were the Valkyries? The Maids of the God of war; the G

he Goddesses of slaughter. It was their province to select those that were to fall in battle; to bear the invitation of Odin

ed their intercession with the greatest God. Seven celebrated temples were dedicated to the seven planets, and statues were

n celebrated temples were dedicated to the seven planets, and statues were erected to their honour. Besides the stars, which

s, and statues were erected to their honour. Besides the stars, which were general objects of worship throughout Arabia, the

stars, which were general objects of worship throughout Arabia, there were some that were peculiarly They worshiped the fixe

re general objects of worship throughout Arabia, there were some that were peculiarly They worshiped the fixed stars and the

enerated, the Coran mentions three, Allat, Al-Uzzah, and Manah. These were called goddesses, and the daughters of God; and t

have been men of exemplary virtue and high reputation. Their statues were , at first, only testimonies of civil honour, whic

Their mythology was much blended with their science; as the Chaldeans were not only their priests, but also their philosophe

ldeans were not only their priests, but also their philosophers. They were greatly addicted to astrology, and ascribed power

ines, Syrians, &c. — and of the Mexicans and Peruvians.] What were the idol deities of the Canaanites, Philistines,

e, denoting lord, and Moloch, Molech, or Malek, which signifies king, were variously combined to express various attributes

names. Thus, Baal-Peor, who was the idol of the Moabites, whose rites were most detestable and cruel; and who is regarded as

ring nations; in honour of whom, human victims, principally children, were immolated. Adonis, or Thammuz, was worshiped thro

rte, queen of heaven, the Moon, distinguished by her silver crescent, were likewise, objects of worship, amongst those natio

ation. He was imagined to be a cruel deity, fond of blood; and to him were offered, annually, multitudes of human victims, o

summit of his pyramidal temple in ancient Mexico. The unhappy victims were stretched out, by four priests, upon a convex gre

four priests, upon a convex green stone, as an altar; and while they were yet alive, their hearts were extracted by the hig

green stone, as an altar; and while they were yet alive, their hearts were extracted by the high priest, and their bodies pr

li, the Mexicans worshiped another God, whom they called Kaloc. These were always placed together, as companions, and as enj

rded as the goddess of the waters. The chief deities of the Peruvians were Viracocha, or Pachacamac, whom they worshiped in

f the Grecian Mythology? In which class of the first order of Deities were Saturn, Cœlus, Genius, Orcus, Sol, Bacchus, Terra

ere Saturn, Cœlus, Genius, Orcus, Sol, Bacchus, Terra, and Luna? What were they called? Of what Deities was the council of J

Pan, Pomona, Flora, and the other rural deities belong? In what order were the personified virtues and vices ranked? Which o

presided over history, and whence is her name derived? In what order were placed Hercules, Esculapius, Castor, Pollux, and

ow have the Poets described it? Who invented sails for ships? Of whom were Titan and Saturn the sons? Which King of Rome ins

of Rome instituted the worship of Vesta and the Vestal virgins? What were the Saturnalia? How were the festivals of Cybele

orship of Vesta and the Vestal virgins? What were the Saturnalia? How were the festivals of Cybele celebrated? What was the

the Opertum? What was the Palladium, and where was it preserved? Who were the most ancient God and Goddess? Who mentions Ju

the most ancient God and Goddess? Who mentions Jupiter Belus, and who were his peculiar worshipers? Who were the Galli? What

Who mentions Jupiter Belus, and who were his peculiar worshipers? Who were the Galli? What account does history give of Cybe

at account does history give of Cybele? What was the golden age? What were the Megalesia? Which of the Indigetes first coine

ere was his temple? Who was the inventor of boats and crowns? By whom were altars raised to the memory of Janus? Which of th

oetry? On what account was Janus represented with a double face? What were his attributes? Describe the chariot and horses o

. Which Muse presided over miscellaneous poetry? Whence, and by whom, were the Lares and Penates, which were kept in the tem

aneous poetry? Whence, and by whom, were the Lares and Penates, which were kept in the temple of Vesta, brought to Rome? Rep

Jupiter. Which was the Comic Muse, and how was she depicted? By whom were Saturn and Cybele confined, and by whom were they

as she depicted? By whom were Saturn and Cybele confined, and by whom were they released? By what name was Jupiter known amo

ople was Jupiter called Apis? Who was the daughter of Ceres, and what were her adventures? What were the victims commonly of

is? Who was the daughter of Ceres, and what were her adventures? What were the victims commonly offered to Jupiter, and what

es? What were the victims commonly offered to Jupiter, and what trees were accounted sacred to him? What birds were sacred t

d to Jupiter, and what trees were accounted sacred to him? What birds were sacred to Juno? Who taught the art of tilling the

nd of what materials did the Poets make them to consist? What animals were generally sacrificed to Juno? What was Proserpine

nstrumental music? Repeat Homer’s description of Juno’s chariot. What were the names of the horses of the Sun, and what did

history of Aurora and Tithonus, and of what was it emblematical? Who were the Heliades, and what was their fate? What tree

ades, and what was their fate? What tree was dedicated to Apollo? Who were the Cyclops? Who was Midas, and what was his hist

duce by a blow of his foot? Of what is Diana figurative? What animals were sacred to Mars? What were the favourite birds of

? Of what is Diana figurative? What animals were sacred to Mars? What were the favourite birds of Minerva? Of what fruit did

urite birds of Minerva? Of what fruit did Pallas teach the use? What were the Ancilia? Who caused them to be made? Who brou

tatue of Diana from the Taurica Chersonesus, into Italy? What animals were represented as drawing the chariot of Bacchus? Wh

all, when Jupiter threw him down from heaven? What animals and plants were consecrated to Venus?     Where was the workshop

e consecrated to Venus?     Where was the workshop of Vulcan, and who were his workmen? Who was the wife of Cupid? How were

p of Vulcan, and who were his workmen? Who was the wife of Cupid? How were the Graces pictured? Where were their principal t

rkmen? Who was the wife of Cupid? How were the Graces pictured? Where were their principal temples, and what was their chara

Where were their principal temples, and what was their character? Who were the chief of the Cyclops? By whom was Vulcan invo

ssenger of Jupiter, and the god of eloquence and the arts? What birds were imagined to have the power of stilling the waves,

have the power of stilling the waves, and what was their history? Who were the Naiads? Who built a temple to Terminus, and p

prescribed the form of his worship? Who was the God of the winds? Who were the attendants of Neptune? What were the victims

ho was the God of the winds? Who were the attendants of Neptune? What were the victims offered to Pluto? Who was the wife of

were the victims offered to Pluto? Who was the wife of Neptune? What were the personifications of the dangerous rocks, and

dangerous rocks, and of the whirlpool, between Sicily and Italy? Who were the Lymniades? What were the Satyrs, Fauns, and E

the whirlpool, between Sicily and Italy? Who were the Lymniades? What were the Satyrs, Fauns, and Egypans? Who were the Orea

Who were the Lymniades? What were the Satyrs, Fauns, and Egypans? Who were the Oreades? Of what colour were the chariot and

the Satyrs, Fauns, and Egypans? Who were the Oreades? Of what colour were the chariot and horses of Pluto, and what propert

perty did his helmet possess? Repeat Virgil’s account of Mercury. Who were the Dryades and Hamadryades? What was the imagine

was the form of the god Pan; what was his musical instrument, and how were his priests named? Which of the Muses presided ov

e described? Who was the foster-father and attendant of Bacchus? What were his different characters? What Muse presided over

nt characters? What Muse presided over epic poetry and rhetoric? What were the names of the household gods of the Romans? Wh

he Romans? Who was the god of Riches, and how was he represented? How were the Fates represented, and what were their names?

and how was he represented? How were the Fates represented, and what were their names? Describe Charon. What was the crime

Homer’s account of Scylla and Charybdis. Who was the leader, and who were the principal heroes engaged in the expedition to

? What was the name of their ship, and the general name by which they were called? Who was Chiron? To what monster was Œdipu

s was the inventress of astronomy, and how was she represented? Where were the three chief oracles of Jupiter? Name the Paga

dha? How is he represented, and where was his worship celebrated? Who were Suradevi, Carticéya, Cama? What is the general ch

supposed to have introduced human sacrifices? Who was Indra, and what were his attributes? Describe the residence of Indra.

ices still allowed by the Brahminical religion? What kind of edifices were the ancient Hindû temples? On what site are the I

thys? Under what different forms was Osīris represented? What animals were sacred to Typhon? What were the attributes of Typ

orms was Osīris represented? What animals were sacred to Typhon? What were the attributes of Typhon, and how was he depicted

at part of Egypt was the uncreated God alone worshiped, and from what were his worshipers exempted? Where was the Serapeum,

was it destroyed? Of what was Harpocrates the type and what offerings were presented to him? Of what was Jupiter Ammon the r

o him? Of what was Jupiter Ammon the representation, and what honours were conferred on his statue? To what god was the Ibis

rsees? Who was Orosmades? How has Zoroaster described Arimanius? What were the symbols of Orosmades, and what was his first

Repeat Glover’s description of the God Mithras. Who was Mithras? Who were the Scythian Deities? What kind of altars did the

ently offer; and what was their ceremony of cutting the misletoe? Who were Teutates, Hesus, and Andate? What was the represe

ed? At what period did the Scythian Mythology take its rise, and what were its nature and its sacrifices? What was the Celti

ology prevail, and by what name was the Supreme Being designated? Who were the priests of the Celtic religion, what was the

ltic religion, what was the nature of their rites, and in what places were they performed? What degree of influence and powe

t are its contents? What is the Voluspa? Repeat the song of Vala. Who were the Valkyries? What was the Valhalla? What does S

ian Mythology; and what name did it assign to the Supreme Deity? What were the Allat, the Al-Uzzah, and the Manah of the Ara

What was the Caaba, and what representation of Manah was in it? What were the names of the Angels, or Intelligences, whom t

e been built? What was the nature of the Babylonian superstition? Who were its Priests? Who were its Deities? By whom was Be

the nature of the Babylonian superstition? Who were its Priests? Who were its Deities? By whom was Belus worshiped, and whe

e was his celebrated temple? Who was Belus supposed to have been? Who were the Chaldeans? Who was Astarte? What is the meani

the principal Deity of the Philistines, and how is he described? Who were the Gods of the Mexicans and Peruvians? Who was V

turn was Noah himself, and that his sons Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto, were Ham, Japhet, and Shem, the founders of Nations.

masters, and allowed to taste the sweets of liberty. 3. Her priests were seated on the ground when they sacrificed, and of

een preserved in popular belief. “The gods, in almost every instance, were personifications of phenomena, or powers of Natur

or moved, of their own accord. Thus they spoke of everything as if it were alive, and instead of saying, as we do, that the

and clouds. But the Greek, in whose language these physical meanings were lost, had long before the Homeric epoch come to r

, as mere persons; and in most cases the originals of the Hindu myths were completely forgotten. “One chief result arrived a

s of the Grecian people appear to have believed that their divinities were real persons, but their philosophers explained th

verlasting bliss and spring beyond the lofty mountains, whose caverns were supposed to send forth the piercing blasts of the

of Ocean, dwelt a people happy and virtuous as the Hyperboreans. They were named the Æthiopians. The gods favored them so hi

were named the Æthiopians. The gods favored them so highly, that they were wont to leave at times their Olympian abodes, and

py place named the Elysian Plain, whither mortals favored by the gods were transported, without suffering death, to enjoy an

blessed with happiness and longevity. The Dawn, the Sun, and the Moon were supposed to rise out of the Ocean, and to drive t

amed Ichor supplied the place of blood in the veins of the gods. They were not capable of death, but they might be wounded o

often partook of their food and hospitality. “Like mankind, the gods were divided into two sexes, — namely, gods and goddes

scribed to their deities all human passions, both good and evil. They were capable of love, friendship, gratitude; of envy,

day; There the inhabitants divine rejoice Forever’ Cowper . “Such were the abodes of the gods as the Greeks conceived th

ination of such an assembly of gods. But the Roman and Etruscan races were by no means irreligious. They venerated their dep

ly the worship of these ancestors was an important duty. Their images were kept in a sacred place, and each family observed,

impress of its ancient Greek source. As the primitive Celts, however, were a less civilized people than the Greeks, their my

racter, and this circumstance, combined with the fact that the Romans were not gifted with the vivid imagination of their Gr

in pairs) sprung into existence. Erebus* (Darkness) and Nyx* (Night) were the children of Chaos, and the parents of Hemera*

. The Race of Uranus. — The children of Uranus, according to Hesiod, were the Titans, the Cyclopes*, and the Hecatoncheires

esiod, were the Titans, the Cyclopes*, and the Hecatoncheires*. There were twelve Titans: six males, Chronos*, Oceanus*, Cœu

y doubtless represented the elementary forces of nature. The Cyclopes were three in number, Brontes* (thunder), Steropes* (f

mena of the storm. The Hecatoncheires (Centimani*, or Hundred-handed) were Briareus* (hurricane), Gyges* (earthquake), and C

angible divinity. Oceanus espoused his sister Tethys. Their offspring were the rivers of the earth, and three thousand daugh

over which he rules. Cœus* and Phœbe*. — The offspring of this pair were Leto* and Asteria*. Leto was the mother of Apollo

the father of the Winds and Stars. Pallas and Styx* (the ocean-nymph) were the parents of Envy, Victory, Strength, and Force

rses married Asteria. Hecate* was their daughter. Hyperion* and Thea were the parents of Helios (the Sun), Selene* (the Moo

eek, Uranus*; Roman, Cœlum*; Hindu, Varuna*. The sun, moon, and stars were emblems of Uranus or Cœlum. He is represented clo

brothers bend to gather the falling leaves. Sacrifices offered to Nyx were black sheep. A cock was offered to her. because t

e head of a young man crowned with rays. Sacrifices offered to Helios were honey, lambs, goats, white rams, and white horses

ridanus* (Po). His sisters, the Heliades*, as they lamented his fate, were turned into poplar-trees on its banks, and their

t she turned when he rose.” Epithets applied to Helios by the poets were , mortal-delighting; mortal-illumining; unwearied.

rried him into immortal life. The views and fables connected with Eos were transferred by the Roman writers to the person of

goddess Aurora without alteration. Epithets given to Eos, or Aurora, were rose-fingered, rose-armed, yellow-robed, gold-sea

by the dogs, whose barking announced her approach. Her statues, which were dog-headed, were set up at Athens and elsewhere,

e barking announced her approach. Her statues, which were dog-headed, were set up at Athens and elsewhere, in the market-pla

ack female lambs, dogs, eggs, libations of milk, and honey. Festivals were held at night, by torchlight. At the time of the

f time. He married Rhea, a daughter of Uranus and Gæa. Their children were three sons: Aides* or Pluto, Poseidon (Neptune),

ng mighty earthquakes. Victory smiled upon Zeus. Chronos and his army were completely overthrown, his brothers despatched to

entifying their deities with those of the Greek gods whose attributes were similar to their own, declared Chronos to be iden

or of Saturn was erected at the foot of the Capitoline Hill, in which were deposited the public treasury and the laws of the

easury and the laws of the State. Greek festivals in honor of Chronos were called Chronia*. The Roman festival in his honor

e animal creation, more especially over the lion. The priests of Rhea were called Curetes* and Corybantes*. Her worship was

emacy of Zeus was recognized in all three kingdoms. Earth and Olympus were common property. This new order of things was by

n Ossa*. After a fierce battle, in which all the gods took part, they were conquered, and sent to share the fate of the vanq

a time prior to the existence of any temple in Greece. Mountain-tops were the earliest seats of his worship. He was represe

ty revealed himself to the faithful. Later, near the temple at Dodona were two columns. On one was a brazen vase, on the oth

unds the priestess based her predictions. But all the earlier shrines were overshadowed by the great national seat of the wo

nk of the river Alpheus*, in Elis*, where the renowned Olympian games were celebrated. The magnificent statue of Zeus, by Ph

ion of heroic poetry, and the deepening of fraternal feeling. Rewards were crowns of olive leaves. Sacrifices offered were b

rnal feeling. Rewards were crowns of olive leaves. Sacrifices offered were bulls and rams, accompanied with offerings of fra

t Apollonius*, after the model of the Olympian Zeus. Capitolini Ludi* were games yearly celebrated at Rome in honor of Jupit

ne) was the daughter of Zeus and Demeter* (Ceres). Zeus and Eurynome* were the parents of the Charites* (Graces); Zeus and M

ew Epopeus, and led Antiope back a captive to Thebes. Her infant sons were exposed on the mountains, where they were found b

to Thebes. Her infant sons were exposed on the mountains, where they were found by a shepherd, who reared them, and named o

Dirce*, the wife of Lycus, fled for protection to her sons when they were grown up. They attacked and slew Lycus, and, tyin

, was the mother of four children — two mortal and two immortal. They were Castor* and Pollux*, called Dioscuri* (sons of Ze

x*, called Dioscuri* (sons of Zeus), and Helen and Clytemnestra*, who were celebrated in connection with the Trojan war. Cas

of this myth is somewhat difficult. It is commonly supposed that they were ancient Peloponnesian divinities of light, who, a

nt Peloponnesian divinities of light, who, after the Dorian invasion, were degraded to the rank of heroes. They are often in

he morning and evening star, or of the twilight (dawn and dusk). They were venerated not only in their native Sparta, but th

die out in the western heavens at eventide.” Cox . Zeus and Ægina* were the parents of Æacus*, so renowned for his justic

e moon, whose apparently irregular course and temporary disappearance were considered a curious phenomenon by the ancients.

n. Argus was slain by Hermes, the rain-god; in other words, the stars were rendered invisible by the thick clouds. There is

, and end life together. Their wish was granted; and one day, as they were standing before the temple, they were transformed

s granted; and one day, as they were standing before the temple, they were transformed into trees, remaining forever side by

might seem to hear with greater readiness the different prayers which were daily offered to him from every part of the earth

statue of Zeus which had a third eye in its forehead. The three eyes were indicative of the dominion of Zeus over heaven, e

of Mount Atlas. On the first day of every month a ewe-lamb and a sow were sacrificed to Hera. The hawk, goose, and peacock

-lamb and a sow were sacrificed to Hera. The hawk, goose, and peacock were sacred to her. Her favorite flowers were the ditt

The hawk, goose, and peacock were sacred to her. Her favorite flowers were the dittany, poppy, and lily. Her most famous tem

te flowers were the dittany, poppy, and lily. Her most famous temples were at Olympia, Argos, and Samos*. The Dædala* and To

us temples were at Olympia, Argos, and Samos*. The Dædala* and Tonea* were Greek festivals in honor of Hera. The “Little Dæd

rhenians*, who attempted to carry away the statue of the goddess, but were detained in the harbor by an invisible force. Her

l appearance. At the marriage of Peleus* and Thetis*, all the deities were present except Eris*. Indignant at not being invi

ith the inscription on it “For the Fairest.” The claims of all others were obliged to yield to those of Hera, Pallas Athene,

riam, whose dreadful sufferings and misfortunes during the Trojan war were attributed to her influence. At one time Hera, be

e money was coined. The Roman consuls, when they entered upon office, were always obliged to offer to Juno a solemn sacrific

tion before a voyage was undertaken, and sacrifices and thanksgivings were gratefully offered to him after a safe and prospe

sastrous inundations, which completely destroyed whole countries, and were usually accompanied by terrible marine monsters,

ted of athletic sports, also contests in music and poetry. The prizes were garlands of pine leaves or of ivy. The sacrifices

prizes were garlands of pine leaves or of ivy. The sacrifices offered were black bulls, rams, and boars. The gall of victims

ls, rams, and boars. The gall of victims was also offered. The bodies were thrown into the sea. The wife of Poseidon was Amp

wn into the sea. The wife of Poseidon was Amphitrite*. Their children were Triton, Rhoda, and Benthesicyme*. Triton was his

al commemorated in his honor was the Neptunalia, or Consualia. Horses were led through the streets finely equipped and crown

the streets finely equipped and crowned with garlands, and all horses were allowed to rest from labor during this festival.

adowy outline of the human form it had quitted. These shades, as they were called, were driven by Aides into his dominions,

of the human form it had quitted. These shades, as they were called, were driven by Aides into his dominions, where they pa

ng friends.” Berens . The narcissus, maiden-hair fern, and cypress were sacred to Aides. He had temples erected to his ho

to run into the ground. The officiating priests wore black robes, and were crowned with cypress. It was said that at the clo

Martius, which was uncovered and used once a year. Only black animals were sacrificed to him. The Feralia* was a festival in

om the eighteenth to the end of the month, during which time presents were carried to the graves of deceased friends and rel

g held feasts of love and reconciliation, and the temples of the gods were closed. Erebus* was a general term comprehending

ace of imprisonment. The souls of those who had lived a virtuous life were sent to the Elysian Fields. Homer locates them in

ar Lake Avernus, over which it was said no bird could fly, so noxious were its exhalations. Old Age, Disease, and Hunger — a

e its exhalations. Old Age, Disease, and Hunger — avengers of guilt — were supposed to dwell in caves near the entrance of H

for those whose fate had not been decided. In the dominions of Aides were several rivers — Acheron* (grief), Cocytus* (lame

ed under the tongue of a dead person for that purpose. All the shades were obliged to appear before Minos, the supreme judge

one to return. The guilty souls, after leaving the presence of Minos, were conducted to the great judgment-hall of Hades, wh

he great judgment-hall of Hades, whose massive walls of solid adamant were surrounded by the river Phlegethon, the waves of

precise torments which awaited him in Tartarus. The wretched sinners were then seized by the Furies, who scourged them with

te which closed the opening to Tartarus, into whose awful depths they were hurled, to suffer endless torture. Tartarus was s

t, after the shades had inhabited Elysium* for a thousand years, they were destined to animate other bodies on earth, and be

s*.] The punishments of great criminals in the infernal regions were a fruitful theme for the imagination of the poets

theme for the imagination of the poets. The most celebrated criminals were Tityus*, Tantalus*, Sisyphus*, Phlegyas*, Ixion*,

xpiate by the torments of continual hunger and thirst. Above his head were suspended the most beautiful fruits, but when he

ir father’s command, had slain their husbands on their wedding-night, were condemned to pour water continually into a cask f

erforated cask, means the rainy sky.” Cox . Mœræ*. The Fates were called Mœræ* in Greek and Parcæ* in Latin. Either

gists call them the daughters of Nyx, others of Zeus and Themis. They were three in number — Clotho*, Lachesis*, and Atropos

hich the universe is governed, and to whom both mortals and immortals were forced to submit, Zeus himself being powerless to

They had sanctuaries in many parts of Greece. The sacrifices offered were ewes, flowers, and honey. Representations. T

offered were ewes, flowers, and honey. Representations. The Mœræ were generally represented as three old women. One hel

s, with crowns on their heads. Erinnys*. The Erinnys* (Furies) were three in number, Alecto*, Megæra*, and Tisiphone*

(Furies) were three in number, Alecto*, Megæra*, and Tisiphone*. They were female divinities, who personified the torturing

y sprung from the blood of Uranus when he was wounded by Chronos, and were hence supposed to be the embodiment of all the te

rebellious son. Their place of abode was the lower world, where they were employed by Aides and Persephone to chastise and

m as beings of terrific appearance, with snakes instead of hair. They were sometimes winged. They were clad in black and car

arance, with snakes instead of hair. They were sometimes winged. They were clad in black and carried a torch, a sword, a kni

uently, they appear in a milder and more kindly guise. So long as men were under the dominion of the law of retaliation, — t

retaliation, — the dreadful “eye for eye and tooth for tooth,” — they were able to derive pleasure from the idea of the inex

es was here acquitted, for Athene, when the votes for and against him were equal, declared that then, and in all future time

e time, the criminal should have the benefit of the doubt. The Furies were at first very angry, and threatened the land with

he Areopagus. After they had taken possession of this sanctuary, they were venerated by the Athenians under the name of Semn

, as propitious deities, who, though they continued to punish crimes, were ever ready to grant mercy to the repentant sinner

ercy to the repentant sinner and to give succor to all good men. They were then represented, more especially in Athens, as e

hose arts which are connected with agriculture, by means of which men were rescued from the lower grades of hunters and shep

playing with the daughters of Oceanus in a flowery meadow, where they were picking flowers and making garlands. Persephone h

lms of Pluto he must remain there forever, the hopes of the goddesses were disappointed. Zeus finally succeeded in effecting

the doctrine of the immortality of the soul. The grain, which, as it were , remains dead for a time in the dark earth, only

agriculture and husbandry. The Eleusinian* Mysteries, or Eleusinia*, were observed at Eleusis every fifth year. They were i

eries, or Eleusinia*, were observed at Eleusis every fifth year. They were in honor of Demeter, and were the most celebrated

erved at Eleusis every fifth year. They were in honor of Demeter, and were the most celebrated of the religious ceremonies o

e in the world of shadows. Those initiated in the Mysteries, however, were taught that death was only a resurrection of the

d rendered himself worthy of such a happy lot. The sacrifices offered were millet and barley. Swine were sacrificed because

uch a happy lot. The sacrifices offered were millet and barley. Swine were sacrificed because they injure the fruits of the

youth practised gymnastic and warlike exercises. The priests of Mars were twelve in number, and were called Salii*, or the

and warlike exercises. The priests of Mars were twelve in number, and were called Salii*, or the dancers, because dancing in

e exactly like it, and instituted for their protection the Salii, who were selected from the noblest families in Rome. Every

of Rome, executing warlike dances and chanting war-songs. Sacrifices were horses, rams, wolves, and dogs, also grass, becau

ass, because it grows in towns laid desolate by war. Human sacrifices were offered in the earliest ages. The assistance and

in the earliest ages. The assistance and protection of the god of war were always solemnly invoked before the departure of R

arture of Roman army for the field of battle. Any reverses of fortune were ascribed to his anger. Representations. 1. S

tituted by Erechthonius* (a serpent-legged son of Gæa and Hephæstus), were thereafter called Panathenæa*, and were celebrate

ed son of Gæa and Hephæstus), were thereafter called Panathenæa*, and were celebrated every fifth year. Citizens from all pa

and lambs. The prizes in the athletic, musical, and literary contests were crowns of olive, and painted vases filled with oi

the sacred altar of the house. There the images of the household gods were placed, and there the father, who was the priest

d was of moderate dimensions. The priestesses, called Vestal Virgins, were six in number, and were chosen, between the ages

ions. The priestesses, called Vestal Virgins, were six in number, and were chosen, between the ages of six and ten, from the

heir term of office was thirty years. During the first ten years they were initiated in their religious duties, during the s

as a national calamity of ominous import. Great honors and privileges were accorded to them. The best seats were reserved fo

rt. Great honors and privileges were accorded to them. The best seats were reserved for their use at all public spectacles.

vided it could be proved that the meeting was accidental. The Vestals were vowed to chastity, a violation of which was punis

the goddess, and placed there offerings of food. The young of animals were sacrificed to Vesta, also tender shoots of plants

ighty element and compelled it to do grand service for man. Volcanoes were believed to be his workshops and the Cyclopes his

self unable to move, and all the efforts of the gods to extricate her were unavailing. Dionysus* induced Hephæstus to return

ful things for his favorites, or those of Zeus among men. Among these were the golden dogs which guarded the house of Alcino

nalia, or Volcanalia, was celebrated on the 23d of August. Sacrifices were calves and male pigs. The streets were illuminate

the 23d of August. Sacrifices were calves and male pigs. The streets were illuminated, fires were kindled, and animals thro

ifices were calves and male pigs. The streets were illuminated, fires were kindled, and animals thrown into the flames as a

the power of inspiring affection for the wearer. Her usual attendants were the Horæ* and Charites*. Sometimes Ares, sometime

æstus, was said to be her husband. The children of Ares and Aphrodite were Hermione, Eros, Anteros*, Demus*, and Phobus*. Th

d Phobus*. The dove, swan, swallow, sparrow, the myrtle, and the rose were sacred to Aphrodite. The Venus of Milo is now in

im in his task, the most perfect forms the city (Athens) could supply were furnished him for models. It is to this Thomson a

e mingled beauties of exulting Greece.” Greek festivals in her honor were called Aphrodisia. Sacrifices were goats and swin

ce.” Greek festivals in her honor were called Aphrodisia. Sacrifices were goats and swine, with libations of wine, milk, an

of buds, was held sacred to her. Annual festivals, called Veneralia*, were held in her honor. She was worshiped as Venus Clo

a* points to her as goddess of corpses. All the apparatus of funerals were kept in this temple, and her attendants were the

he apparatus of funerals were kept in this temple, and her attendants were the public undertakers of the city.” Seemann .

artful, gold-bridled, sea-born. Horæ* (The Seasons.) The Horæ* were three beautiful maidens, daughters of Zeus and Th

re three beautiful maidens, daughters of Zeus and Themis. Their names were Eunomia* (wise legislation), Dike*, or Dice* (jus

s and unproductive portion of the year which we call winter. The Horæ were also the deities of the fast-fleeting hours. In t

riot of the sun which they help to unyoke when he sinks to rest. They were originally personifications of the clouds, and ar

erm originally applied to a personification of grace and beauty. They were the daughters of Zeus and Eurynome, and were thre

f grace and beauty. They were the daughters of Zeus and Eurynome, and were three in number, Euphrosyne*, Aglaia*, and Thalia

me, and were three in number, Euphrosyne*, Aglaia*, and Thalia*. They were believed to preside over those qualities which co

ernal youth. Wherever joy or pleasure, grace and gayety reigned, they were supposed to be present. Music, eloquence, poetry

rodite, whom they adorned with wreaths of flowers. Temples and altars were everywhere erected in their honor, and people of

Incense was burned daily upon their altars, and at every banquet they were invoked, and a libation poured out to them. Chari

uet they were invoked, and a libation poured out to them. Charitesia* were festivals in honor of the Charites or Graces, in

d for the society of her sisters. In accordance with her desire, they were conducted by Zephyrus to her fairy-like abode. Je

sought long and sorrowfully for him. After many disappointments they were reunited, and Zeus made her immortal.10 “But ne

earned to seek him only in the skies; Till wings unto the weary heart were given, And she became Love’s angel bride in heave

* games in honor of Apollo in the third year of every Olympiad. There were at these games sacrifices of cakes and frankincen

ites, purifications through sprinkling by laurel boughs. Sacred hymns were sung in honor of the god, and sacred dances were

boughs. Sacred hymns were sung in honor of the god, and sacred dances were performed by choruses, who danced around a blazin

, who danced around a blazing altar. Athletic games and chariot races were instituted about 585 b. c., and musical and liter

er world. They journeyed on through the gloomy regions of Erebus, and were about to pass the extreme limits, when Orpheus, t

e companion. At last he was torn to pieces by some Thracian women who were performing the rites of Dionysus (Bacchus). His h

was a beautiful youth beloved by Apollo. As the god and his favorite were one day playing with the discus, it rebounded, an

temple to Apollo on the Palatine. The Roman games in honor of Apollo were Apollinares Ludi* and Ludi Seculares*, or Century

they joined in song or the dance. The hind, dog, bear, and wild boar were sacred to her. The purity and chastity generally

. Artemis Orthia* was a dark and cruel deity to whom human sacrifices were offered in Laconia. Lycurgus* abolished this barb

orship of this divinity into Rome. The Nemoralia, or Grove Festivals, were celebrated in her honor on the 13th of August.

beings divided by hate, Hermes threw it down between two snakes which were fighting. They curled around the staff and remain

hich he produced was the melody of the winds. The cows which he stole were the bright clouds driven across the heaven.” Co

ues, called Hermæ* (pillars of stone surmounted by a head of Hermes), were placed at cross-roads and in streets. Zeus presen

o Hermes a winged cap (Petasus) and winged shoes (Talaria). The wings were emblematic of the wings which language gives to t

ractical wisdom of this world.” Seemann . The sacrifices to Hermes were incense, honey, cakes, figs, young lambs, and goa

cense, honey, cakes, figs, young lambs, and goats. Tongues of animals were offered to him because the tongue is the organ of

e offered to him because the tongue is the organ of speech. Festivals were called Hermæa*. Mercury was worshiped by the Roma

mankind the blessings of civilization. The forms of his worship that were attended with wild revels and extravagant demonst

p that were attended with wild revels and extravagant demonstrations, were the result of Asiatic influences; some of the exp

the result of Asiatic influences; some of the expressions of its fury were loud music, frantic gestures, cutting of the fles

then attempted to dance on it. The tiger, lynx, panther, and dolphin were sacred to Dionysus. His favorite plants were the

nx, panther, and dolphin were sacred to Dionysus. His favorite plants were the vine and ivy. Goats were sacrificed to him be

sacred to Dionysus. His favorite plants were the vine and ivy. Goats were sacrificed to him because they were destructive t

ants were the vine and ivy. Goats were sacrificed to him because they were destructive to vineyards. The most celebrated amo

to the top-sail, the mast became entwined with ivy, and all the oars were covered with vine-leaves. The god appeared as a l

ized the offenders, who leaped from the ship into the sea, where they were changed into dolphins. A fine representation of t

s to pray for the fertility of the vines. The voluptuous Bacchanalia* were afterwards introduced into Rome in imitation of t

ards introduced into Rome in imitation of the Greek orgies. Brumatia* were festivals celebrated at Rome in honor of Bacchus

ebrated at Rome in honor of Bacchus about the month of December. They were first instituted by Romulus. Representations.

r. Musæ* (The Muses). “The parents of the nine Muses were Zeus and Mnemosyne* (Memory). Pindar gives the fo

hty deeds of the gods. It was in answer to this prayer that the Muses were created. Tliey sing of the past, present, and fut

t in connection with nature, there is little doubt but that the Muses were originally nymphs of the fountains. The veneratio

in the existence of such song-loving goddesses. Originally, the Muses were only goddesses of song, though they are sometimes

rate function was assigned to each of them.” Seemann . “The Muses were honored alike by mortals and immortals. On Olympu

assistance.” Berens . The mountains Pindus, Hehcon, and Parnassus were the favorite haunts of the Muses. They received a

f the Muses. They received appellations from hills and fountains that were sacred to them. They were called Pierides* from M

appellations from hills and fountains that were sacred to them. They were called Pierides* from Mount Pieria, Libethrides*

s*, King of Æmathia, challenged the Muses to a contest in music. They were defeated, and changed into magpies by the indigna

She is crowned with a wreath of laurel. The Sirens*. The Sirens were personifications of the numerous rocks and unseen

numerous rocks and unseen dangers which abound on the sea-coast. They were gifted with such melodious voices that mariners w

sea-coast. They were gifted with such melodious voices that mariners were lured to shipwreck and destruction by their songs

* once entered into a contest with the Muses. The songs of the latter were loyal and true, whilst those of the former were f

e songs of the latter were loyal and true, whilst those of the former were false and deceptive. The Muses easily gained the

draughts of inspiration.” Berens . The Nymphs. “The Nymphs were the presiding deities of the woods, grottoes, str

tc. They personified the restless activity and energy of nature. They were supposed to be tender, graceful maidens, who avoi

hs comprised the Oceanides*, Nereides*, and Naiades*. “The Oceanides were the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, and were bel

iades*. “The Oceanides were the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, and were believed to be endowed with the gift of prophecy.

thys, and were believed to be endowed with the gift of prophecy. They were personifications of the vaporlike exhalations whi

m climates, are emitted from the sea, more especially at sunset. They were represented as misty, shadowy beings, with gracef

orms, and robed in blue gauze-like fabrics.” Berens . The Nereides were the daughters of Nereus and Doris, and were nymph