Artemis

 

 

Artemis by Joanna Powell Colbert

Artemis ©1985 Joanna Colbert.
Used with permission.

Artemis, in Greek mythology, one of the principal goddesses. She was the counterpart of the Roman goddess Diana. The daughter of Leto and the god Zeus, Artemis was the twin sister of the god Apollo. She was the goddess of hunting, wild animals, childbirth, nature, and the harvest. As the moon goddess,she was sometimes identified with the goddesses Selene and Hecate. Artemis was traditionally the protector of youth, especially young women.

The children of Zeus and Leto, Artemis and Apollo were born on the Island of Delos. Both deities are associated with the bow. Apollo is said to have used the curved bow whilst Artemis uses the silver bow. She is said to be one of only three who are immune to the enchantments of Aphrodite.

Artemis embodies the spirit that is free to run with the wind, follow the beds of streams and rivers, one who is free to enjoy the company of women and the woods. She would come to the side of women in labour and ease their pains of childbirth. And as the provider of Juniper and hellebore that could be used for healing, Artemis taught the medicine of the woods.

she is said to dance through the countryside in her silver sandals, giving divine protection to the wild beasts, particularly the very youn. She rides her silver chariot across the sky and shoots her arrows of silver moonlight to the earth below.

 

The beautiful image used on this page is called "Artemis" by Joanna Powell Colbert. Please support her as an artist and do not download or copy any of her images without her express permission. My thanks to Joanna for allowing me to use her work. To order prints or cards of her work click on the banner below to go to her website catalogue.
Link to Joanna Powell Colbert's site

 

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