| THE EPISTOLARIAN |
Throughout Greek mythology, Zeus often transformed himself and others to seduce, abduct, or in the worst examples, rape them.
To name a few...
- Eagle - Zeus transformed into an Eagle and abducted Ganymede, a prince of Troy
- Gold Coins - Danae was seduced by Zeus in the form of a shower of gold coins.
- Bull - Europa was abducted by Zeus as a white bull and taken to Crete.
- Ant - Zeus transformed himself into an ant to have sex with Eurymedousa.
- Dragon - Zeus seduced Persephone multiple times. Once he impersonated her husband, Hades. Another time, he transformed into a dragon to seduce her.
- Swan - Zeus transformed into a swan to seduce Leda.
- Cloud - He swoops down in the form of a cloud to seduce Io.
Look closely at the mist to see Zeus' face and hand.
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Leda and the Swan During the 16th century, motifs featuring Zeus gained newfound appreciation. While shock and repulsion may be the initial reaction to scenes such as a woman engaging in intimacy with a swan, it was actually considered a more "appropriate" portrayal of copulation than showing a woman with a man. Despite its seemingly taboo connotations, there's something about these ancient stories depicted through art that holds us captivated. What do you think? |
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Kay
(Kathryn Hastings)