The divine poet represents the King of Gods seated on a golden throne, at the feet of which are two cups, containing the principle of good and evil. […] His mother was the first to attack him, her example was instantly followed by his two sisters, and his body was torn to pieces. […] two lamps, burnt out, in darkness lies.” […] This celebrated instrument was a rod entwined at one end by two serpents. […] The Gods heard her prayer, and formed of the two, a being of perfect beauty, preserving the characteristics of both sexes.