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Questions and Answers
What was the cause of the earth turning into a frozen desert according to the story of Demeter and Persephone?
What was the cause of the earth turning into a frozen desert according to the story of Demeter and Persephone?
What enticed Persephone to stray too far from her companions and be carried off by the lord of the dark underworld?
What enticed Persephone to stray too far from her companions and be carried off by the lord of the dark underworld?
Who bore Persephone away to the underworld when she was carried off by the lord of the dark underworld?
Who bore Persephone away to the underworld when she was carried off by the lord of the dark underworld?
Who eventually told Demeter about the whereabouts of Persephone?
Who eventually told Demeter about the whereabouts of Persephone?
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What did Demeter refuse to consume while seeking her daughter?
What did Demeter refuse to consume while seeking her daughter?
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Study Notes
Demeter and Persephone: Myth Overview
- The earth became a frozen desert due to Demeter's grief over her daughter Persephone's abduction.
- Demeter is the goddess of agriculture and fertility, and her sorrow caused a lack of growth and harvest.
Persephone’s Abduction
- Persephone was enticed to stray from her companions by the beauty of a flower, which was a trap set by Hades, lord of the underworld.
- The irresistible allure of the flower lured Persephone into a vulnerable position, leading to her being taken.
Abduction Details
- Hades, with the assistance of the earth (sometimes depicted as Gaia), bore Persephone away to the underworld.
- This event reflects themes of loss and unintended consequences of desire.
Revelation to Demeter
- Helios, the sun god, eventually informed Demeter about Persephone's whereabouts and her fate in the underworld.
- Helios, representing all-seeing wisdom, provided comfort and guidance to the grieving mother.
Demeter's Sacrifice
- During her search for Persephone, Demeter refused to consume any food or drink, symbolizing her deep sorrow and desire to remain alert in her quest.
- This act of abstaining reflected her dedication as a mother and the intensity of her love for her daughter.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the ancient Greek myth about Demeter and her daughter Persephone. Learn about the story of how Demeter's grief affected the earth and led to the changing of seasons.
