Aphrodite and Eros Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover the major themes, myths, and characters associated with Aphrodite and Eros, as discussed in the lecture.

Who is Aphrodite and what are her main associations?

Aphrodite is the goddess of love, sex, and beauty, daughter of Zeus and Dione (or Ouranos' castrated genitals), and mother of Eros and other deities.

What are some symbols associated with Aphrodite?

Dove, swan, goose, rose, myrtle tree, seashell.

What is the significance of the Cnidian Aphrodite sculpture in art history?

It was the first monumental three-dimensional female nude in Greek sculpture, representing divine autonomy and sexual choice.

What are the two myths of Aphrodite's birth?

Homer's version: daughter of Zeus and Dione; Hesiod's version: born from Ouranos' castrated genitals, making her one of the oldest deities.

What are the two natures of Aphrodite?

Aphrodite Ourania (spiritual love) and Aphrodite Pandemos (physical love and procreation).

What is the setting and theme of Plato's Symposium?

An ancient Athenian drinking party characterized by discussions and debates about love.

What is Eros, and how is he commonly depicted?

Eros is the god of love and desire, often depicted as youthful and handsome with wings, bow, and arrows.

What is the story of Eros and Psyche about?

Psyche, a beautiful mortal, becomes the wife of Eros after completing four challenging tasks at the behest of Venus.

How does Priapus relate to Aphrodite?

Priapus is the god of sex and fertility, often viewed as a son of Aphrodite by various fathers.

Who are Hermaphroditus and his relation to Aphrodite?

Hermaphroditus is the child of Aphrodite and Hermes and embodies both male and female attributes.

What does the myth of Pygmalion illustrate about Aphrodite's influence?

Pygmalion falls in love with a statue he created, and Aphrodite brings it to life, showing her power over love and desire.

Describe the significance of the myth of Aphrodite and Adonis.

It tells of Aphrodite's love for the handsome hunter Adonis, his death, and her transformation of him into the anemone flower, symbolizing the cycle of life and death.

What are the origins of Aphrodite's worship?

Aphrodite worshipped chiefly in Cyprus and Cythera, where her cult began, reflecting her significance in Greek culture.

What role does Sappho have in relation to Aphrodite's mythology?

Sappho is a lyric poet who frequently addressed Aphrodite in her poetry, exploring themes of love and beauty.

What are the main themes in Sappho's poetry?

Themes include love, beauty, friendships, rituals, and mythology.

What does the Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite illustrate about her character?

It shows her as both powerful and humbled through her love affair with the mortal Anchises.

In moral allegory, how might Aphrodite and Zeus be interpreted?

Aphrodite could represent desire and love, while Zeus might symbolize authority and the consequences of power.