Greek: The Story of Aphrodite and Myrrha
Greek: The Story of Aphrodite and Myrrha
Myrrha was cursed by Aphrodite because of her mother declaring her beauty was far greater than Aphrodite’s. The curse Myrrha is placed under? It is to fall in love with her father the king of Assyrians, Theias. She has sex with him and finds out she is pregnant. Theias learns of her pregnancy and chases her away, threatening to kill her. Thus born is Adonis.
I do not believe Aphrodite was correct in cursing Myrrha. It wasn’t her who claimed to be more beautiful than the god of beauty and love herself. If she truly sought revenge, shouldn’t she have cursed Myrrha’s mother instead?
Egyptian: The Story of Seth and Osiris
Seth kills his brother Osiris in the Nile to usurp the throne. He plans festivities, and makes a coffin (fit for a king, how ironic) to the specific measurements of his brother, Osiris, and promises to give it to the person who fits inside. After Osiris hops in, Seth slams it shut, trapping his brother inside, and toss it into the Nile. Osiris dies, Iris finds his body, has it mummified properly. Soon after, Seth finds it again and chops him into pieces, scattering them all about the corners of Egypt.
The cruel behavior of Seth was common for him in the Egyptian mythology I have read. I believe Seth was not justified in his behavior. He was a selfish brat, and made decisions that hurt and affected many around him, just so he could have what he longed for. I wish he realized that because something appeals to you that does not mean it is rightfully yours.
Mesopotamian/Sumerian: The Story of Ishtar and Dumuzi
In order for Ishtar to make it to the underworld, she had to remove clothing and power at each gate. As she passed through the last one, she meets her sister, Ereshkigal, who demands that she die at once. After she is resurrected, it is revealed that in order for her to leave the underworld, another soul must take her place. Ishtar offers her husband, Dumuzi up (ironically since she came to the underworld to save him) as her sacrifice. It is accepted by Ereshkigal and Ishtar is allowed to leave the underworld.
Quite frankly, I think it’s kind of rude that she does that, but if she doesn’t love him, her life is more useful than his. She is a Goddess, and he is merely a Shepard. Certain acts and things would cease if she